PC-IRAF Installation Guide

2. Installing PC-IRAF

Although the details of how PC-IRAF is installed or updated depend upon the type of distribution and the desired local system configuration, the basic procedure is always the same. First one obtains the distribution files, then one follows the procedure outlined below to install the system. Most of these steps should be performed while logged in as IRAF; superuser permission is required only in the final stages of the installation, to run the install script.

System managers familiar with the installation of other UNIX packages should beware that IRAF has its own unique history and does not always follow the usual UNIX conventions. It is wise to read and adhere to the installation instructions to avoid problems.

# Prepare the root IRAF directory.
if new installation
    create iraf account
else if updating an old installation
    save locally modified files; delete old system

# Install the files.
login as iraf
unpack the core system distribution
configure the BIN directories

# Merge local revisions into new system.
if updating an old installation
    merge locally modified files back into new system

run the iraf install script to complete the installation
checkout the new system

If problems should arise during the installation help is available by posting a query to one of the adass.iraf newsgroups on USENET, by sending email to iraf@noao.edu, or via the IRAF HOTLINE (520-318-8160). The IRAF Web page http://iraf.noao.edu is a good source of information, and includes access to the IRAF FAQ list. The README file in the distribution directory is a good source of information on late-breaking developments, particularly problems found or issues arising since the initial release.