“The computer maker today announced a test-drive program for
software developers interested in its hardware and software. Under
the program, developers can try out Compaq hardware and software
over the Web rather than get their hands on their own products,
said Carl Ramsey, worldwide director of the Compaq Solutions
Alliance.”
“Compaq launched the Web site in July on a limited basis
with an average 2,500 test drivers a week trying out their software
on various operating systems, including Linux, Tru64 Unix, and
OpenVMS. Initially, only about 2,500 CSA members could access the
site.”
“The New Technologies Test Drive program, as it is called, does
have its limitations. The program is not designed for benchmarking
software applications because of the way Compaq’s Web servers
handle Internet traffic.”
“Compaq doesn’t currently track operating system popularity but
plans to do so later. The data could [be] use[d]… for planning
the future of Tru64 Unix and OpenVMS, and expanding support for
Linux.”