VL64-5.9-beta2 is Released

[uelsk8s]

The VectorLinux team is pleased to announce the second public beta release of VL64-5.9
This is our latest 5.9 release optimized for 64 bit processors. The developers were a bit leery as older hardware is our niche but a strong contingent of our community felt that a 64 bit version was in order so that all could realize the beauty that is VectorLinux. To that end we proudly announce VL64 to our product lineup. This is a true 64bit linux OS, that is based on BlueWhite64.  The build has excellent 32bit compatability with flash working out of the box. We have done our best to duplicate the look and features of the 32bit version. We have included the latest xfce-4.4.2 fluxbox and jwm Window Managers. Seamonkey, firefox, and opera browsers. Basically all has been recompiled from scratch to make 64 bit machines scream. We need to warn that this may be to fast for the average user so don't blame us if your PC goes up in flames. You have been warned! Those willing to expose their boxes to extreme heat can get the iso here: http://vectorlinux.osuosl.org/VL64-5.9/iso-release/VL64-5.9-STD-B2.iso


Survivors can post bug reports here: http://www.vectorlinux.com/forum2/index.php?topic=5926.0

Thanks,
The VL Team

[alec]

Great, thanks! Will try it out later

[BlueMage]

Oooh, a pleasant surprise - this was less than the 2-3 weeks quoted.  Either way, grabbed and will be testing shortly.  Most likely after my lecture this evening.

[Masta]

Time for another release, yet?
 

[Xeon]

In a few weeks I should have a 64-bit computer. If not i'll attempt to bring it on my laptop (I suspect its a 64-bit laptop). Will give it a try then

[BlueMage]

In a few weeks I should have a 64-bit computer. If not i'll attempt to bring it on my laptop (I suspect its a 64-bit laptop). Will give it a try then

Is your laptop a recent Intel?  (ie, Core 2 Duo?)  'cause if so, yes, you're running a 64-bit processor.

32-bit is dead, its corpse is just still breathing, etc, etc.

[Xeon]

It's a centrino. Generation before the cores. (These M processors i believe).

[SuSE-Refugee]

I just went and checked to see that that bloody Celeron 530 in my craptop is indeed a 64-bitter.
So, downloading a-go!

[BlueMage]

It's a centrino. Generation before the cores. (These M processors i believe).

If it's an M-series Centrino, it'll still be 32-bit, sorry to say.

[Xeon]

It's a centrino. Generation before the cores. (These M processors i believe).

If it's an M-series Centrino, it'll still be 32-bit, sorry to say.

Doesn't matter. I just ordered a new computer. Problem solved

[Venturer]

I hate to sound impatient, though I am curious - are people still working on VL64?  It's been pretty quiet here for a while.

[Masta]

It hasn't been abandoned, if that helps any.  Computer time for some of the developers is a bit low, things like work picking up and so on.

[caitlyn]

Am I correct in assuming at this point we are looking at VL64-6.0 rather than 5.9?  I hope so....

[BlueMage]

Just out of curiousity, what are the major differences between a 32-bit distro and the corresponding 64-bit?  I understand a different kernel is required to take advantage of the different CPU instructions, but for the rest of the 32-bit programs, surely it's just a matter of compiling from source in a 64-bit environment, yes?

[uelsk8s]

Just out of curiousity, what are the major differences between a 32-bit distro and the corresponding 64-bit?  I understand a different kernel is required to take advantage of the different CPU instructions, but for the rest of the 32-bit programs, surely it's just a matter of compiling from source in a 64-bit environment, yes?

The kernel and apps have to be compiled for the 64bit system in a 64bit system.
All that VL64 requires to "Take Off" is some more volunteers with 64bit hardware to grab source and buildscripts from the 32bit repo and compile them on their 64bit system.

Uelsk8s