[Info-vax] Some questions on software for VMS 7.3 VAX

[Stephen Hoffman]

On 01/24/2016 06:19 PM, lists at openmailbox.org wrote:
> On Sat, 16 Jan 2016 12:55:47 +0100
> hb via Info-vax <info-vax at rbnsn.com> wrote:
> 
>> Restore the backup save set
>> $ BACKUP EMACS21_2_VAX_BIN.BCK/SAV [.LOCAL...]
> 
> This is causing the saveset to expand into [.local.local]

So do what most of the more experienced folks do when presented this 
particular UI boo-boo: RENAME the created directory where you want it, 
remove the intermediate directory, and move on.   Toss a SET PROTECTION 
(old syntax) or SET SECURITY (new syntax) command at the directory to 
deal with the protections before deleting the now-empty directory.

BACKUP works for what it does, and it's reliable, but few can or do use 
the tool effectively.

Most folks use canned procedures, or the examples in the documentation. 
  I use BACKUP regularly, and still have to use the manual for some 
sequences.

BACKUP is one of the better examples of how a series of ad-hoc and 
incremental changes and a drive for compatibility undermines the 
long-term clarity and usefulness of a tool.

The design of BACKUP is also looking rather limited as the data volumes 
increase, too.   What that means for the future of the current design, 
I don't know.    But I digress.

If you want to see a completely different take on the BACKUP user 
interface, launch BACKUP$MANAGER and partake.


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