What is a .TARDIST file?
The .TARDIST file extension stands for TAR Distribution Archive. This type of file is an archive, which means it's a collection of files bundled together into one. It's specifically designed for distributing and installing software on Unix-based IRIX systems. IRIX systems are a type of computer system sold by a company called SGI, which stands for Silicon Graphics, Inc. These systems are not as common as Windows or Mac computers, but they are used for specialized purposes.
When software developers want to share their programs with users of IRIX systems, they often package the software into a .TARDIST file. This makes it easier to distribute the software because everything needed to install the program is contained in one file. Sometimes, you might find a .TARDIST file linked on a webpage. By clicking the link, you can download the software and then install it on your IRIX system.
The .TARDIST file is similar to another file format called .TAR. TAR files are also archives and are widely used on many Unix-based systems, not just IRIX. Because of this similarity, some programs that can open .TAR files can also open .TARDIST files.
If you have a .TARDIST file that you need to open or install, there are specific programs you can use. One of these programs is the SGI Software Manager, which is designed for managing software on IRIX systems. Another program that can open .TARDIST files is GNU Tar. GNU Tar is a very common program available on many Unix-based systems, and it's used for working with both .TAR and .TARDIST files. By using either of these programs, you can open the .TARDIST file, extract its contents, and install the software on your IRIX system.
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