Thanks very much for the reply Harry Hunt.

Regarding question 4, I don't think it's possible for Delphi to compile to Linux DLL's(.so I think they're called). This isn't a problem though.

I'll probebly look into buying Delphi 5 or 6 at first. I agree that Delphi is expensive, but from the trial version's I've run it is definitly worth it.

Until then I think I'll stick around a little while and pick up some tips from you pros here.

-Mike-