Debugging code compiled with GCC on the RS/6000 requires that you
upgrade the AIX assembler /bin/as with a replacement that is available
from IBM.

Any customer can order and get the replacement assembler, and install
it on one or more machines.  It is distributed both on diskette and
via VNET, for downloading via ftp.  VNET distribution may be desirable
if you have a friendly IBM rep nearby with a networked VM machine.

In either case, to order, execute
    lslpp -h bos.obj to determine your release level.  (Look on the
ACTIVE line for something like 03.01.0005.0012.) Then call IBM Support
at 800-237-5511.  Ask for emergency shipment of the rs6000 AIX fix for
APAR IX22829.  They may ask you to verify that it's a fix for ".extern
foo conflicts with defining foo"; say yes.  They may also ask you for
your customer number.  If you do not know it, you will still be able
to get the fix, but you will have to be persistent.

You will receive a tar or tar.Z file containing an assembler plus
installation instructions.

If you tell them you're running AIX version 3.2, you may be told that
no fix is available yet.  In fact the 3.15 fix works fine on version
3.2.  Talk them into shipping it to you anyway.

A second upgrade is in the works that will replace IX22829 and fix two
more problems with debug information.  There's no scheduled
availability yet, but it's probably summer '92.  Ask for the fix for
APAR IX26107, "Don't allow .csect name[BS] or [UC]"

IBM has corresponding support organizations outside of North America.
Call your IBM branch office and ask them to put you in touch with the
department that handles emergency fixes for AIX on the RS/6000.  If
that doesn't work, ask for the department that handles software defect
support for AIX on the RS/6000.  Then ask for the emergency APAR fix.
