[daip] Question about Linux boxes

[Dayton Jones]

Greetings.  Our group at JPL is contemplating the 
purchase of some generic linux-based computers to 
start replacing our Suns, which are getting a bit 
long in the tooth.  Local computer support people 
recommend that we get Dell 650N machines.  These 
typically come with the red hat 9 version of linux, 
and either 2 or 4 GB of memory.  Do you have any of 
these machines at NRAO, or do you know if others 
have run AIPS on them?  If you are familiar with 
them, are there are specific issues with tape drives 
that we should be aware of when purchasing hardware? 
Thank you for your advice.  Cheers, 
                                    Dayton Jones
                                    (dj at sgra.jpl.nasa.gov)