[Pythonmac-SIG] Python development on OSX

[Daniel O'Donovan]

Hi Tony, 

>    1. Why are there so many "variations" of the Python installer for the Mac?


I think you'll find that the biggest difference between MacPorts python (and fink python) and most other builds (python.org for example), is that MacPorts uses X11 rather than Aqua (Apple's native window manager) and are not built as Apple 'Frameworks' - but rather regular shared libraries (more like with linux). 

Using fink and MacPorts help integration with many linux type apps (particularly helpful for scientific programming) whilst the native, Framework builds are better for native looking Macintosh apps - and the Apple bundled python is obviously native. 

This is a simple summary, and there are 101 more differences between all the builds - but I think the first decision you'll want to make is whether to go the Linux route, or go 'native' ;-)

hth,

Dan 

Daniel O'Donovan
dan.odonovan at gmail.com