CompuServe Thread

#AShell

5 messages in this thread
#9378From: Scott BallantyneJun 21, 1989 1:43 AM
That's an interesting idea. I wonder how often it would get used, extensions aren't too popular with a lot of folks, it seems. thanks for the comment, sdb
#9389From: Peter SmithemJun 21, 1989 12:05 PM
Well, extensions are already used with ARexx and I haven't heard too many complaints. I know I couldn't keep track of all the shell scripts, awk scripts, sed scripts, etc, etc, without using file extensions. Peter_S (LeCroy)
#9390From: BILL LEACHJun 21, 1989 12:08 PM
Scott; I think that file extensions are great. Its just that I want to use mine and don't care for the system making assumptions about names that I might use….. In particular I keep the '.com' and '.exe' extensions with IBM files that I have stored on the system and it would really torque me off if the system assumed that those were executable because of their names. =>73<=, bill <KB7LX @ WA4LPD>
#9406From: Peter SmithemJun 22, 1989 7:06 AM
Bill, I agree about being forced to use a particular extension on certain types of files. That's why I like the PolyTron method so much, it puts the decision into YOUR hands. It will execute whatever you tell it is executable, using whatever interpreters neccessary (ie, rx). If you don't like somebody's default file extensions for whatever reason, just set it up the way you like it and change the file names. Peter_S (LeCroy)
#9393From: John DraperJun 21, 1989 3:05 PM
Scott, I LOVE extensions on files. I do, however, like to keep _required_ extensions to an absolute minimum. Another message here speaks of ARexx requiring extensions, but that isn't quite true. If a file has an extension, and that extension is not '.rexx', it will not be recognized by its 'body' name alone. A file without an extension, called by its full name, will be checked for ARexx validity. Thus, I can choose to call my ARexx scripts by simple or compound name, as I see fit. I usually choose to add the '.rexx' extension for my own ease, but I am VERY glad that it is not a requirement. You should see some of my filenames: IBM.haha Mac.sheesh NewWB.when Extensions as a requirement should definitely be avoided by developers. -larry