Sources of Perl

Consider these factors when you are deciding which version of Perl to install and use with Product Master.

You can use the Perl that is:
  • Typically installed by default with your operating system,
  • A commercially distributed Perl such as ActiveState ActivePerl, or
  • You can create a custom installation of Perl in the home directory for your IBM® Product Master user
Table 1. Choosing which version of Perl to install
Sources of Perl Root access C Compiler Perl modules Installation portability Technical experience that is required
Supplied with the operating system Required Required if you are installing modules from source; specifically, the C compiler that is provided by the operating system is required.
The full C compiler is not included as part of the operating system (except on Linux®), and must be purchased separately.
Note: Except for Linux, which includes the GCC C compiler, all other operating systems require you to purchase the C compiler separately:
  • AIX®: IBM xlc
  • HP-UX: HP ANSI/C
  • Solaris: Sun Studio C compiler
Required modules that are not installed by default. Limited, must install within operating system Minimal, because generally part of operating system
Commercially distributed Not required if you are installing in the home directory for theProduct Master user Not required All required modules are installed by default. Self-contained. Can be reinstalled on other servers. Minimal, due to ease of installation
Installed in the Product Masterhome director Not required for Perl, but is required temporarily for the GNU utilities. Required, but built by using the freely available GNU compiler. Can instead use the C compiler for the operating system, if you prefer. All are included. Self-contained. Can copy the installation directory to similar servers that have an identical PATH that is used on each server. Moderate. Experience building from source is highly recommended.