Re: 1) 600K rows 2) Windows compiles, 3) missing values in graphs

[Prof J C Nash <nashjc ncf ca>]

For both the long rows and the missing values in graphs, I think R might 
be a relatively quick solution. R can read tabular data in CSV form and 
similar, and stores things in "data frames" that are like spreadsheets 
but with column type. And missing values are supported for many if not 
most of the capabilities. www.r-project.org. Note that Gnumeric and R 
have a long cooperative history together.

Compilations: I've been exchanging ideas with Jody about using a server 
I have to allow him to run builds. I've "sort of" got it running and 
installed jhbuild etc., no-password ssh logins, and tried a test build 
(failed because I'm missing a file or two, but getting there). Since 
Jody has plenty on his plate, if there's anyone with some experience 
running builds who wants to work with me to set up appropriate nice 
features, please get in touch off-list. I hope to set up a small set of 
web documentation that could answer some of the periodic questions on 
how to build and possibly offer scripts or other resources bundled from 
working builds. The server is a VM running Debian lenny. At the moment 
the host hardware is only at about 10% CPU tops, even supporting about 
20 VMs. As long as there's no interference with those other VM 
applications, the U of Ottawa will be happy to allow a useful activity 
such as builds to be done. Apparently the VMWare scheduler is set up so 
we likely cannot be too greedy, though I propose to show proper 
etiquette and be watchful of resources used.

JN