IRIX support
We currently support Irix 6.5.4-6.5.12 on SGI hardware, and are testing support for Irix 6.5.17, the most recent version. Irix 5.3, 6.2, 6.3, and 6.4 are no longer supported. SGI no longer supports 6.4 and older, and we do not support other versions of this OS.
Hardware support
After the SGI warranty period has elapsed, there are several possible hardware maintenance options:
- SGI on-site contracts are recommended for all high-end systems. A less costly "SelfCare" contract with SGI is recommended for desktop owners. In this case, the owner is billed separately for SGI contract services and these costs are not included in the standard SCS monthly fees. Details.
- One can also choose not to get an SGI service contract and hope that one does not incur excessive repair costs. While doing so can save money if no problems are encountered, it may result in costly repairs and longer than average downtimes if hardware failures occur. Any repair costs are paid directly by the owner as needed and are not included in the standard SCS monthly fees. Details.
Software environment
Supported IRIX hosts run the Facilities software environment . Most SCS-specific and user-contributed software is in /usr/local . The following resources describe some features of this environment:- Unix/Linux quick reference
- Gives a brief overview of some common questions when using Facilitized hosts
- Unix/Linux local system administration guide
- Detailed information about some of the special procedures that one should follow in order to perform various system administration tasks on Facilitized hosts.
- Managing local software with Depot
- How to use Depot to manage the software in /usr/local.
In addition, IRIX hosts that have SCS Facilities software maintenance support are subscribed to EduCare SoftwareCare which includes software licensing and support.
Troubleshooting and FAQs
If you have a software or hardware problem with a supported host, you should contact SCS Facilities for assistance. The local IRIX FAQ has answers to some common IRIX-specific questions.Additional information
The following off-site links will open in a new browser window:
- Frequently Zephyred questions
- Answers to many common questions about using and troubleshooting Unix/Linux at SCS.