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Most computer Operating systems are now changing frequently. A balance needs to be maintained between newer systems, which have the latest features and support newer hardware, vs existing older installations, which may be needed for older software or hardware still in use. |
Successful adoption of newer versions is dependent on many factors, including compatibility with existing equipment, drivers for adapters and peripherals, software compatibility, and bug fixes. It can often take several months for these factors to be sorted out so the system is stable and supportable. New operating systems also offer many benefits, including new features, functionality on new systems, faster deployment and updates, and manufacturer support.
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- Supports most software used for Chemistry applications and instrumentation.
- Full Manufacturer, Vendor, and Campus support available.
- Functional and security patches available.
New / Upcoming: Newer release, may be required for some new hardware.
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- Manufacturer, vendor, and campus support ended.
- Might not run on new hardware
- Use only where required on older equipment.
- No functional or security patches available
- Should not be connected to the Internet.
Today's Operating Systems:
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Obsolete: Windows 3, 95, 98, 2000, NT
Apple:
Current: OSX 10.8 – released in 2012. Very good, stable.
Upcoming: OSX 10.9, to be released in Fall 2013
Deprecating: OSX 10.6
Obsolete: OSX 10.5 and older
Linux:
Linux versions and updates vary tremendously. ChemIT tries to support one or two primary branches and related tools for new work, and update others when possible.
Current:
- CENT OS 6.4, 64 bit – this is being used for all new Chemistry cluster and workstation builds, along with current compatible cluster management software.
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Obsolete: IRIX, Solaris, Gentoo, SUSE, RedHat 5.x