[Info-vax] Where to locate software

[David Froble]

Hans Vlems wrote:
> No they are not the same. But most VAX systems run V7.3, the Alphas run v8.4 and the IA64's are on v8.4 too.
> They all run IP DECnet C PASCAL CMS and MMS.
> To keep with patches was quite some work. These are hobbyist systems of course.
> 
> Your question is how would I handle 400 production system? My max in that area is about 50 systems. In different factories on the same site. VMS and LP updates were applied initially on a development VAX 8550 and subsequently on all factory systems.
> Just VAX back then and if there were patches then I've ignored them by and large.
> 
> For 400 identical systems I'd build one base image and modify that. Easier said than done but modparams.dat can be generated based on parameterfiles. I think (with the factory i used to work in in mind !!) that i could have done that on my own in 6 months.
> Hans

I don't think anyone objects to better management tools.  I sure do not.

However, I have to ask again, how many 50+ system VMS customers are there?

How many 50+ non-VMS system customers are there, and might consider VMS?  If 
they did consider VMS, would they still continue to need 50+ systems?

Ok, for the situation of 400 locations, each with a local system.  Yes, some 
manner of management with a VMS expert at each site would be a good thing.  A 
very good thing.  How many exist, and what's the cost of catering to the 0+ such 
customers, and what will that cost do to work maybe needed for many other VMS 
customers?