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Last update: 1997-05-20
9945-2-37
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Topic: more - input files
Relevant Sections: 5.18.5.2
Classification: Defect
Defect Report:
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Reference: Page 565, Section 5.18.5.2, "Input Files"
Was it the intent of the standard to disallow the historic
practice of using "/dev/tty" as an input device if standard
error isn't readable?
(Keith Bostic)
WG15 response for 9945-2:1993
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The standard states that if standard error is not
readable and command input is required and standard output is
the terminal that more shall terminate with an error indicating
that it was unable to read user commands, and conforming
implementations shall conform to this.
Concerns about the wording of this part of the standard have
been forwarded to the sponsor.
Rationale for Interpretation:
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None.
Editorial note for future revision of standard (not part of this interpretation)
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A proposed change to the section 5.18.5.2 more Input files is
as follows: replace the subclause with
The input files being examined shall be text files. If the standard
output is a terminal, standard error shall be used to read commands
from the user. If the standard output is a terminal, standard error
is not readable, and command input is needed, more may attempt to
obtain user commands from the controlling terminal (e.g. /dev/tty);
otherwise, more shall terminate with an error indicating it was
unable to read user commands. If standard output is not
a terminal, no error shall result if standard error cannot be
opened for reading.
NOTE: There is no certainty that these comments will apply to any
revision of ISO/IEC 9945-2:1993.
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