What is AlphaLinux?
AlphaLinux is a port of the Linux operating system to Compaq (was Digital)'s Alpha CPU. The Alpha is a true 64-bit CPU that holds the title as the fastest chip currently available, with speeds up to 833MHz. Most of the other components in an Alpha system are the same as an Intel based PC, and most of the x86 Linux software available today can be recompiled on the Alpha.

Where can I get an Alpha system?
We currently have a list of vendors, both in the U.S. and internationally that sell Alpha hardware

How do I get AlphaLinux?
You can buy a distribution from one of the vendors. Currently RedHat, Debian, SuSE, RockLinux and Mandrake have AlphaLinux distributions. Just like its x86 counterpart all of this software is available for download from the Internet. Though it's always a good idea to buy a distribution to help fund continued development.

Are they more difficult to setup than x86 machines?
The Alphas do tend to be a little more difficult to setup than x86 machines. They have much more complicated firmware than x86 machines and were designed to run Digital Unix (OSF/1), VMS and of course Windows NT. However, don't let this discourage you. There are lots of these machines around and the support from the AlphaLinux community is excellent.

How much do they cost?
New Alphas are usually a little more expensive then x86 machines. However there is a plentiful supply of older and used machines out there. I picked up my Multia (a 166MHz version) for only fifty U.S. dollars. Not bad....

Where do I get help?
There are several places to turn. One is the comp.os.linux.alpha newsgroup. Both Debian and RedHat have email lists, you can find more about those on our otherpages section. Also we have archives of the major Alpha mailing lists.

Which system should I buy?
Most of the systems are well supported at this point. However do not buy any of the TURBO channel based DEC 3000 series as these are not supported.