new server status and RFC on problem tracking database for all classic OS's

From: Jay West <jwest_at_classiccmp.org>
Date: Wed Apr 24 10:53:13 2002

Thanks a MILLION to all who have donated parts and/or money so far to get a
separate dedicated classiccmp server. Many of the components are in (still
missing a few critical things), but I'm still waffeling on whether to put in
IDE hardware mirroring (and if so, whether to do it with a motherboard that
supports this or an addin ide raid card). Decisions decisions.... if anyone
still wants to donate to the cause, my paypal id is jwest_at_classiccmp.org

On a different note - something I have been considering and wonder if people
would like it or use it. I would like to put up a problem tracking system
for all classic OS's. This would be off the classiccmp.org website, where
anyone could put in a problem they have run into with a particular classic
OS - be it a suspected bug, compatability issues, etc. An administrative
type (volunteers who want to watch the section for a particular OS) can come
in and post an answer, resolution, workaround, etc., or mark the problem
report as "user error", "known defect", etc. This database easily supports
someone searching for a list of problems, issues, etc. For example - "show
me any entries for getting a cdrom to work on RT11", or "show me any
problems with crashed BBL on HP21xx", or "what are all the known defects in
{your favorite operating system here}". All accessible to the public via a
simple web interface.

You can think of this as a totally free hobbyist support mechanism open to
the public. However, keep in mind that it is NOT meant to be used as a
"discussion" forum. The very nature of the software used for the system
prevents this from happening (ie. it's not meant to replace the classiccmp
mailing list in any way). Just another way to find out if the problem you're
beating your head against is a known bug. I have been looking at BugTrak,
but am starting to lean towards the gnats system with the www.gnats
frontend.

Any thoughts?

Jay West
Received on Wed Apr 24 2002 - 10:53:13 BST