PPC vs. x86

[spcsauce]

ok, so I'm an über-newbie, so be nice--

If I've got an old Apple box with a PPC processor (a g3 266) and I install Yellow Dog Linux on it, will it be able to run the same applications as an x86 machine running another variety of linux? It seems counterintuitive to me that a PPC would be able to suddenly speak the same language as an x86 thanks to this magical OS. Any explanation of the different flavors of linux and compatibility between the PPC and x86 types would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

.spc

[Alex Cavnar, aka alc6379]

if you compile it... it will run...

That's basically the truth. For instance, if you have an install of Debian 3.0 on an x86 box, and you have it on a PPC as well, you should have access to all of the same programs in either version.

Now, that doesn't mean that the PPC is binary compatible with x86. You would still have to have a binary compiled for the PPC and for the x86 platform. But like I said, if you can compile it, you should be able to run it.

[unixtool]

Yes, most of the apps will run on your apple. you just have to get a little more into compiling, readme's and a little more headache. I personally run a YD2.3 server for a friend of mine. I run bind, ssh, qmail, gnome, kde, Xfree4, vnc, and many others. I even have an exported xmms for use on his home desktop. A real pain when he finds a new song to download. :)

Most, if not all with a little work, apps will run an any flavor of linux. You will just have to compile the apps from scratch; i.e. download source, edit make files, and compile. Sometimes with a few headaches.

Don't get me wrong, I like the ppc platform and find it very fast for some apps. Hardware is well supported, support via newsgroups is well documented, and source for most of your major apps is prominant. With enough time and effort, you to can have a ppc with a flavor of linux running your favorite desktop, server apps, and other linux goodies. :)

HTH