32 bit Intel hardware effectively EOL [WAS Re: Offer to make a native 32-bit system avaiable]
On Sat, Jan 13, 2024 at 01:01:08PM -0600, rhys wrote:
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>
<snip>
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> > Since you still offer 32bit machines of which Debian has enough of. (64 bit kernel probably but it doesn't matter) where it does not matter at all.
>
We don't particularly need 32 bit hardware at the moment, as far as I know.
> Then let me be clearer.
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> I should have changed the subject line, because I was not attempting to address the build problems brought up in the original topic. I have done so now.
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> Let me say that again another way: I was changing the subject of the conversation away from the build issues mentioned previously.
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> I did not mean that offering additional resources would solve known build problems.
>
I think this is the crux of the matter: there are several packages which
are problematic - packages needing significant memory resources which are
marginal on 32 bit hardware (and often are now built on 64 bit hardware).
> What I mean was, "Here is a resource that appears to be scarce from my perspective. You may use it if you wish."
>
Thank you for your offer: the resource _is_ scarce, not least because 32 bit
hardware is now >> 10 years old and have generally been replaced by 64 bit
processors for most purposes. Even if you can make it avaiable to the Debian
system administrator's team [DSA] and run it 24/7, it might still end up
being unreliable. Your willingness to help is noted and appreciated but it
may be too late at this point.
<snip>
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> I have and use 32-bit systems. I would like to keep using Debian on those systems. My intention was to offer a resource that could, potentially, help ensure that 32-bit systems continue to be supported. In this way, I am offering to contribute something back to the project that has served me well for years.
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> If that is not useful, that's fine. It's certainly less work for me. It was just an offer.
>
Trixie will still provide some 32 bit programs but not an installer.
At this point, it might be that 32 bit hardware can be replaced at
minimal cost by a rescued 64 bit laptop or desktop and be both
more efficient in terms of power used and usefulness.
The EOL clock has been ticking on these sysems for a long time and I think
i386 is now really EOL.
> That is all.
>
> --J
With every good wish, as ever,
Andy
(amacater@debian.org)
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