[Ref: pasc-1003.2-97] Topic: set -o noclobber

Defect Report concerning: IEEE Std. 1003.2-1992, ISO/IEC 9945-2:1993 - Shell & Utilities
Clause: 3.7.2
PASC Interpretation Ref: pasc-1003.2-97
Topic: set -o noclobber

This is an unapproved interpretation of PASC 1003.2-1992, ISO/IEC 9945-2:1993 - Shell & Utilities.

Use of the information contained in this unapproved document is at your own risk.

Last update: 20 April,2001

								1003.2-92  #97

 _____________________________________________________________________________

	Interpretation Number:	XXXX
	Topic:			set -o noclobber
	Relevant Sections:	3.7.2


Interpretation Request: (Defect Report)
-----------------------

I have a question about standard 1003.2-92,  POSIX Shells and Utilities.
I would like to request clarification of section 3.7.2 on set -o noclobber.
The standard says:
=======================================================
	[n] >word

Output redirection using the > format shall fail if the noclobber option
is set and the file named by the expansion of word exists and is a
regular file.

=======================================================
This does not specify what happens in the case of an empty regular file.
What does the POSIX standard require?  Should an error result in the
case of empty as well as nonempty files?

Thank you for your help.

Lisa Kowalski
lila@mozart.stc.att.com
(908) 582-7083



Interpretation response
------------------------
The standard does not make a distinction between empty or non-empty files.  
Further, the standard clearly states that "Output redirection using the >
format shall fail if the noclobgber option is set" and conforming
implementations must conform to this.  
 

Rationale:
None

Forwarded to Interpretations group: Mar 9 1995
Proposed resolution circulated: May 16th
Comments due: June 15th
Finalised: June 16th 1995