If at all possible, get an RPM version. They're just plain easier to install
and update. However it looks like for you a .tar.gz is your only option, so
here's how you go about installing it:
First untar it. "tar -xvzf the_program.tar.gz".
Then cd to the new directory it creates, "cd the_program_directory"
Then read the readme that it should come with "more README". It'll contain more
detailed instructions on how to install. However 99% of the time, it'll say to
do this:
"./configure"
then, "make"
Then "su" to root and type "make install".
And now it's installed and ready to use!
You might get errors during the ./configure step. If this is the case, it's
usually because you don't have the neccasary libraries installed. You can try
to go to rpmfind.net and search for whatever file you're missing, and try
installing that. Most of the time doing that will fix the problem. The easiest
way to get around all that hassle is to go the developer route during the
Mandrake Installation. So if you ever have to reinstall for whatever reason,
choose the developer version next time.
> I downloaded an app (solar system) in the form of .........tar.gz
>
> What do I have to do to install such an app? I only have installed rpm apps
> so far :-(
>
--
Anthony
http://binaryfusion.net
Computers are not intelligent. They only think they are.
