[Bug bootstrap/39150] Configure scripts have no 64-Bit Solaris defined (only i386-solaris*).

["rob1weld at aol dot com" <gcc-bugzilla at gcc dot gnu dot org>]

------- Comment #15 from rob1weld at aol dot com  2010-05-17 02:34 -------
(In reply to comment #13)
> Subject: Re:  Configure scripts have no 64-Bit Solaris defined (only
> i386-solaris*).
> 
> > ------- Comment #12 from rob1weld at aol dot com  2010-05-04 07:20 -------
> 
> > This is an "Enhancement" (EG: I wish (someday in the future) that we had this
> > feature) and I would have preferred it remain open ...
> 
> But what's the *point* of having such a configuration, except as a prove
> of `we can do that'?  Any actual problem that would be solved this way?
> 
>         Rainer
> 


(In reply to comment #13)
> Same as on Linux: the compiler will be faster and able to handle more memory.


OpenSolaris is 64 Bit; it's ability to run on older Hardware is a convenience,
not a requirement. Similarly gcc could output 80286 / 80387 code ONLY, for
Intel Platforms, as that would be easier also ...

Support for both modes (and more to come) is not so much "proof we can do that"
as it is the "normal thing" (compared to other Platforms) to do. The inability
of the "Build Mechanism" to operate in a similar manner (logic) as it does on
Linux is support of a third way of building gcc rather than proof that doing it
one way is easier.


OpenSolaris recently added support for the ARM Processor, so that adds a few
more 'multi-lib modes' that need to be supported, along with the expanded line
of SPARC Processors now being supported. The OpenSolaris Group also has a 'call
for Ports', so in theory our mechanism _must_ be general enough to support any
possible Processor (in the future, you don't need to do everything today!).


I would be more than happy to request from Oracle a "gcc Team" be created and
dispatched here. The result of a successful request _might_ be a tiny Team of
experts (OS Design / Compiler Writers) that would assist with Testing,
Patching, Solaris Expertise, and bring with them an assignment to a share of
the Server Farm. They have such a Liaison for most larger Programs and
supported Hardware. 

I can foresee one or two getting "assigned" and a half dozen or so volunteer
when they hear of your hardship ("... rather the time it takes
to analyze and fix problems.  This is practically doubled if you have
two different configurations to test, and I simply cannot afford that ...").


Do one of you wish to ask or shall I ? (Note: It might take 3-6 months to get
approved as some may be paid; so lets get started).


Rob


-- 


http://gcc.gnu.org/bugzilla/show_bug.cgi?id=39150