Re: Need advice on a usable, inexpensive laptop for Debian
On Wed, Sep 4, 2024 at 17:47 Charles Curley ... What did you replace the H&R Block program with? Free TaxUSA, recommended by my lawyer son. it's free, but I paid extra (still less that H&R) for some extra features. It worked great for 2023, I will use it again for 2024. Note I've been audited twice by the IRS, so I'm pretty reliant on a good tax program. I tried going with a CPA once, but he had more forms for me to fill out than the tax programs, and wanted a large fee besides. Thanks, all respondents, for good advice on my laptop quest. -Tom
Need advice on a usable, inexpensive laptop for Debian
I'm trying to propose a computer lab for young wannabe coders, and I want to use a Linux box (I prefer Debian, but I get the feeling Ubuntu is more familiar with school systems and other institutions). I am torn with whether dual boot is the way to go, given all the problems I see with dual boot with Windows now. (I finally dumped Windows entirely some months ago when I found a decent, modern replacement for Microsoft Word and for the H&R Block US Federal tax program). All the cheap laptops in local Best Buys and other local stores have Windows installed, and, to be fair, that's all most adults and young people have been exposed to. Note I do not want to get involved with Chromebooks. Thanks for any suggestions. -Tom
Re: Direct Messaging
On Sat, Aug 31, 2024 at 15:05 john doe wrote: > On 8/31/24 17:01, Ryan Nowakowski wrote: > > On Sat, Aug 31, 2024 at 03:18:10PM +0100, Darac Marjal wrote: > >> On 31/08/2024 14:26, Tom Browder wrote: > >>> Anyone know of a way to send text messages to willing recipients from > >>> one’s own website and server without hiring DM provider? > >> > > (disclosure: I'm the author of the django-sms Twilio backend) > > > > I guess, this is not what you asked! Not exactly, but I checked out Twilio and I have established an account to try it out. To the OP, Twilio with the lang of your choosing! ;^) Already there, thanks, folks! -Tom
Re: Simple group email list
On Sat, Aug 31, 2024 at 08:43 Geert Stappers wrote: … Yes, I also used Mailman2, but hoped MM3 would cure its warts—unfortunately it ruined it for me. Maybe I should revisit it. -Tom
Direct Messaging
Anyone know of a way to send text messages to willing recipients from one’s own website and server without hiring DM provider? Thanks. -Tom
Simple group email list
I have a class website that I would like to programmatically send noreply@mydomain messages to my list of classmate emails when I periodically update the site. (I used to do that circa 2010 via Gmail’s API but that changed and I had to stop.) With modern email handling restrictions I’m not sure that’s easily done now without lots of hoop jumping. Anyone have a pointer to a recipe for doing that? I’m running multiple virtual hosts with modern Apache with https on my own remote server running Debian. My DNS provider is Namecheap. Thanks. -Tom
Re: Cross-platform contacts program/app recommendations?
On Sat, Aug 17, 2024 at 14:55 Tom Browder wrote: > On Sat, Aug 17, 2024 at 08:06 Michael Grant > … I’m too lazy at the moment to self-host. Anyone suggest a provider that is in the US? -Tom
Re: Cross-platform contacts program/app recommendations?
On Thu, Aug 15, 2024 at 12:36 Dan Ritter wrote: > Michael Kj??rling wrote: > > On 14 Aug 2024 21:22 -0600, from charlescur...@charlescurley.com > (Charles Curley): ... I don't really need any Linux support as long as the app supports Gmail and Google contacts. -Tom
Re: Cross-platform contacts program/app recommendations?
On Thu, Aug 15, 2024 at 08:04 Charles Curley < charlescur...@charlescurley.com> wrote: > On Thu, 15 Aug 2024 11:36:02 + > Michael Kjörling wrote: > > > I too was going to suggest Nextcloud; with the caveat that I don't see > > the server portion in the Debian Bookworm repos (though it is free and > > open source). Thanks Micheal and Charles! I'll check it out. Debianly yours, -Tom
Cross-platform contacts program/app recommendations?
I've been using Gmail and iOS contacts for years, and they are supposed to synch; but neither has worked very well for me, except when I use the Google Contacts on my Debian PC or laptop. I am looking at Contacts+ as a possible solution. Has anyone had any good experience with it, or do you have a better solution to recommend? Note I spend most of my computer time via the Termius iOS app to my local and remote Debian servers and usually have an iPhone readily available. Thanks for any help you can provide. Best regards, -Tom
Re: VirtualBox (VB) and Windows on Debian
On Wed, Jul 17, 2024 at 06:20 Tom Browder wrote: > On Wed, Jul 17, 2024 at 01:45 jeremy ardley > wrote: > ... > > I appreciate your and others views on the Windows version I'm using. I am > using > 10 only because it's the only one I still have a key for, and I was able > to find a downloadable iso file. > I see <https://digitalproductkey.com> offers Win 7 Pro key and link to ISO. Anyone use them? -Tom >
Re: VirtualBox (VB) and Windows on Debian
On Wed, Jul 17, 2024 at 01:45 jeremy ardley wrote: ... I appreciate your and others views on the Windows version I'm using. I am using 10 only because it's the only one I still have a key for, and I was able to find a downloadable iso file. I would happily use an older Windows if it has the capability to build the libraries needed to run Rakudo. A brief search shows that Win 7 might work, and legit versions are available. But are legit isos around for ease of installation? Thanks. -Tom
Re: VirtualBox (VB) and Windows on Debian
On Tue, Jul 16, 2024 at 3:06 PM wrote: ... > I use it every day. Mind you, I'm running XP, > but I do Windows program development on it and it runs just > fine. I give it 512MB of memory, and programs run on it at > least as fast as on a native Windows box. Thanks, but I now have a good solution. -Tom
Re: VirtualBox (VB) and Windows on Debian
On Tue, Jul 16, 2024 at 12:06 Kent West wrote: ... > I use "Virtual Machine Manager" now, instead of VirtualBox (mostly > because of the more-libre licensing; last I used VB, you had to use > their proprietary pay-for add-on for USB3 support, if I recall > correctly), but I used to use VB. Thanks, Kent. Based on Jeremy's advice, I first tried VMWare WS Pro on my Deb 11 host, but couldn't get past the links wanting me to log in to Broadcom. Next I went to VB but had problems with installation errors and complaints about needing some code chunks signed. Reluctantly I went to KVM/QEMU where I had had a bad experience last year. I deleted the two files I found there and found my Windows 10 Pro license and started from scratch. Note this time I did a couple of things differently: 1. I did not try to install MacOS as I had before I tried Windows. 2. I gave the process 8 threads, 40 Gb of RAM, and 100 Gb of SSD space. It installed like a charm and I look forward to exercising it. Thanks all! -Tom
Re: VirtualBox (VB) and Windows on Debian
On Tue, Jul 16, 2024 at 09:42 jeremy ardley wrote: … > VirtualBox is not supported on Debian 12. > There are alternatives that include: > > - KVM/QEMU > > - VMWare Workstation Pro (which is now free for private use) > > In my experience KVM/QEMU is fairly stable. The VMWare product not so much. Thanks, Jeremy! -Tom
VirtualBox (VB) and Windows on Debian
I haven't looked at VB in a long time, but I have a real need for a Windows host to port some Linux libraries to Windows in order to support the Raku language. I now have lots of memory and disk space which was always a significant issue when I used it before, and my use case is much different. Then I was trying to show Windows users how they could run Linux, now I want to help Windows folks to use a new programming language that was developed on *nix systems. Thus my question is: Has anyone use a recent version of VB to run Windows with satisfactory results? (Note I still have a legal copy of Win 10 on a CD as well as a portable DVD player with a USB connector.) Thank you my fellow Debian users! Best regards, -Tom
Re: overthewire.org: safe to use?
On Sun, Jun 16, 2024 at 20:08 john doe wrote: > On 6/16/24 19:27, Tom Browder wrote: > > Anyone here have any cautionary advice about using the ssh to war games > on > > their site? > … According to [2], nothing needs to be installed. > Ah, I just noticed the port was specified. Thanks, John Doe! All is well. -Tom
overthewire.org: safe to use?
Anyone here have any cautionary advice about using the ssh to war games on their site? My grandson just spent last week at a Cyber Security Camp offered by the U of West Florida, and they used it for many of their activities. On Debian it’s the “bandit” package that provides ssh access without any user prep except the installed package—and I’m not used to that at all. Thanks. -Tom
Re: Bookworm and its kernel: any updates coming?
On Mon, Jun 3, 2024 at 09:15 Michael Kjörling <2695bd53d...@ewoof.net> wrote: > On 3 Jun 2024 08:40 -0500, from tom.brow...@gmail.com (Tom Browder): > > I keep getting emails concerning the serious kernel vulnerability in > > kernels 5.14 through 6.6. > > > > I have not seen any updates and uname -a shows: 6.1.0-13-amd64 > > Something's broken on your end. > > Bookworm is currently at ABI 6.1.0-21 / kernel 6.1.90-1 since May 6 Michael, on one my hosts I discovered both 13 and 21 pkgs are installed. I did a reboot and I get uname -a = 6.1.0-21-amd4; I must have missed a msg at some point. Thanks for your concern and help. -Tom
Re: Bookworm and its kernel: any updates coming?
On Mon, Jun 3, 2024 at 09:15 Michael Kjörling <2695bd53d...@ewoof.net> wrote: ... > > I have not seen any updates and uname -a shows: 6.1.0-13-amd64 > ... > Something's broken on your end. ... Check your apt pins to ensure that you're not > blocking too much. Thanks, Michael. My system is a remote host, and I'm in the process of a reinstall on one. If I correctly read the links you sent, the latest kernel has that CVE covered. But another remote host seems to have the same problem. Each host comes from a different provider and had slightly different default pinnings in '/etc/apt/sources.list'. I'll double-check my pinnings. -Tom
Bookworm and its kernel: any updates coming?
I keep getting emails concerning the serious kernel vulnerability in kernels 5.14 through 6.6. I have not seen any updates and uname -a shows: 6.1.0-13-amd64 Anyone concerned? -Tom
Re: Solution for KVM via a cat 5 connection
On Mon, May 27, 2024 at 17:47 Stefan Monnier wrote: > > Has anyone had experience using a KVM setup (at least one HDMI and two > USB > > ports) and using cat 5/6/7 between user and the computer? I don’t need > to > > handle multiple computers or high-def video movies, just programming and > > office work. I need a bit more distance from my computer which must stay > in > > a closet, and conventional KVM equipment won’t work. > > You can do it without KVM, but using another computer connected to your > screen/keyboard/etc... Thanks, Stefan. That is a good solution. Best regards, -Tom
Solution for KVM via a cat 5 connection
Has anyone had experience using a KVM setup (at least one HDMI and two USB ports) and using cat 5/6/7 between user and the computer? I don’t need to handle multiple computers or high-def video movies, just programming and office work. I need a bit more distance from my computer which must stay in a closet, and conventional KVM equipment won’t work. If so, I would appreciate knowing what brand and model devices you are using. Thanks so much. -Tom
Re: realpath quoting
On Fri, May 3, 2024 at 21:43 David Christensen wrote: ... > My practice is to start with '#!/bin/sh' and migrate to '#!/usr/bin/env > perl' as complexity increases. I agree with David's direction, but ending with Raku instead of Perl. I don't think golfing is the way to illustrate a practical solution, so I show a short Raku script: $ cat read.raku #!/usr/bin/env raku my $a = "name with spaces"; my $b = "name\nwith newline"; say "file 1: |$a|"; say "file 2: |$b|"; And executing it: $ ./read.raku file 1: |name with spaces| file 2: |name with newlines| With Raku, it's easy to search the directory for the weird file names, open them, and use their contents. Raku also has many built-in quoting constructs to suit any situation. I'll be happy to demo any of that here. Best regards, -Tom
Re: Recommended simple PDF viewer to replace Evince
On Tue, Dec 5, 2023 at 7:12 AM Mike Castle wrote: ... > You could be missing a package that evince expects to be there, but > there is a missing dependency (likely, making it a Debian problem). I think you're onto something. I installed both Okular and Xpdf, exercised them, and remembered why I wasn't fond of them. I just removed them both and Evince no longer is putting out the error messages. Sounds like a Debian bug as you said. > However, there is another site listed in the man page: > https://gitlab.gnome.org/GNOME/evince/issues , and that does appear to That works great, thanks! I'm so glad it's still being maintained. > Chrome supports PDFs natively. Also, before I started using evince, I > used to use gv (based on ghostview) quite a bit.. Yes, I used gv and gvv a lot when I was developing PostScript products heavily. They were very useful. > The following seems to list most of the various programs discussed in this > thread, plus a > couple of others: > apt-cache search pdf-viewer Thanks so much Mike! And also many thanks to all my Debian friends who answered. I think my side of this thread is done now. "Merry Christmas to all and t all a good night!" -Tom
Re: Recommended simple PDF viewer to replace Evince
On Mon, Dec 4, 2023 at 17:12 Tom Browder wrote: > I have used Evince as my PDF viewer and printer program for many I see I need to read the CUPS man page more closely. It looks like it has most all of the answers I need for my current situation. Thanks to all who responded. Happy Christmas! -Tom
Re: Recommended simple PDF viewer to replace Evince
On Tue, Dec 5, 2023 at 01:14 Marco Moock wrote: > Am 04.12.2023 um 17:12:28 Uhr schrieb Tom Browder: > > > I would like to use another program which is similar but has good > > documentation. I don't need a heavy duty program like LibreOffice, > > Just something for viewing and printing. > > Try xpdf, but be aware it doesn't support forms nor other special stuff > in PDF like video. I don't need heavy duty. Thanks, Marco. > -Tom
Re: Recommended simple PDF viewer to replace Evince
On Tue, Dec 5, 2023 at 02:06 Paul M Foster wrote: > On Mon, Dec 04, 2023 at 05:12:28PM -0600, Tom Browder wrote: > > > I have used Evince as my PDF viewer and printer program for many > > years. It still works, but it has been spitting out error messages for > > a very long time. to wit: > > > > (evince:81435): EvinceView-CRITICAL **: 16:44:57.520: \ > > ev_pixbuf_cache_set_selection_list: \ > > assertion 'EV_IS_PIXBUF_CACHE (pixbuf_cache)' failed > > > > The help option doesn't shed any light to me, but it does reference > > the website. However, every time I've tried the site throws an error. > > That also has been happening for a LONG time. > > > > I would like to use another program which is similar but has good > > documentation. I don't need a heavy duty program like LibreOffice, > > Just something for viewing and printing. > > > > A bonus would be one with documented CLI use with CUPS printers. > > > > Thanks for any recommendations. > > > > Best regards, > > > > -Tom > > > > I use xpdf, which is extremely simple and will allow printing. Don't think > it has a CLI interface. However, I would imagine that simply feeding a PDF > to the printer should work for printing. I could be wrong, though. When I mean CLI i want a means to **reliably** control settings for my CUPS printer. When I manually print via Evince It seems to sometimes change important settings like page scaling and orientation. And, if it wasn't obvious, the long-time lack of documentation for Evince is a major pain point. Thanks, Paul. -Tom
Re: Print flakes off mailing labels, use a fixative?
On Sun, Dec 3, 2023 at 19:36 David Christensen wrote: ... > Please confirm printer, toner cartridge, and labels are all HP. If so, > I would contact HP. HP printer and toner, Office Depot labels. I bought so hair spray and will try that. -Tom
Recommended simple PDF viewer to replace Evince
I have used Evince as my PDF viewer and printer program for many years. It still works, but it has been spitting out error messages for a very long time. to wit: (evince:81435): EvinceView-CRITICAL **: 16:44:57.520: \ ev_pixbuf_cache_set_selection_list: \ assertion 'EV_IS_PIXBUF_CACHE (pixbuf_cache)' failed The help option doesn't shed any light to me, but it does reference the website. However, every time I've tried the site throws an error. That also has been happening for a LONG time. I would like to use another program which is similar but has good documentation. I don't need a heavy duty program like LibreOffice, Just something for viewing and printing. A bonus would be one with documented CLI use with CUPS printers. Thanks for any recommendations. Best regards, -Tom
Re: Print flakes off mailing labels, use a fixative?
On Sun, Dec 3, 2023 at 2:01 AM David Christensen wrote: > I would not put anything through a laser printer unless it is > specifically rated for laser printers. Applying fixative to printer > labels before printing sounds like a good way to damage your equipment. > If anything, apply the fixative after printing. Of course.
Re: Print flakes off mailing labels, use a fixative?
On Sat, Dec 2, 2023 at 5:17 PM Gareth Evans wrote: > Are your labels "laser" labels? Yes, DUAL INKJET and LASER -Tom
Re: Print flakes off mailing labels, use a fixative?
On Sat, Dec 2, 2023 at 3:03 PM Dan Ritter wrote: > Brother has all those features, plus BRScript/3 and ethernet. I > buy them for work where they tend to last about 8-10 years of high-volume > work. Thanks, Dan. I have owned a Brother between two of my HPs. I'll keep an eye out for one. Blessings to all. -Tom
Re: Print flakes off mailing labels, use a fixative?
On Sat, Dec 2, 2023 at 2:18 PM Donald Mac Dougall wrote: > My experience many years ago with HP laser printers was that if the print > flaked off > it was because the fuser roller wasn't hot enough to fuse the toner to the > paper. Yes, I've investigated that a bit. I had the same trouble with my labels at a local UPS store. The owner insisted his printers are in top shape. As I said, these are fresh labels and I don't have any trouble with printing on normal paper. I'll try a fixative for now. If I do need a new printer, I want another B&W laser, double sided-printing, copying, and scanning. Multiple paper trays for two sizes of paper would be nice. I have had great luck with HP over the years, but I'm open to suggestions. Thanks, Donald. -Tom
Print flakes off mailing labels, use a fixative?
I’ve had a print flaking problem with my old HP laser which has a fairly new toner cartridge. I have a set of brand new Office Depot labels. I intend to try a “fixative” on them to see if that will help. Any other suggestions? Thanks. Happy Christmas! -Tom
Re: On folders vs. directories and history [was: how to compare...]
I’m comforted by this friendly discussion about the old days versus the modern generation by fellow old folks of pre-PC days. Sort of like an afternoon gathering at the Elks or the VFW. Thank you all. Blessings. -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 09:27 Tom Browder wrote: > Every time I set up a new host, I have to jump through the hoops trying to On my main Debian 11 host I have found one formula that works for ssh logins as well as xterm login on a Mate desktop: I followed most of the formulas on the Debian wiki and suggestions made here plus some experimentation and did this: 1. Set my desired path for users in file /etc/environment $ cat /etc/environment PATH=/opt/rakudo/bin:/opt/rakudo/share/perl6/site/bin:/usr/local/bin:/usr/bin 2. I put the identical path in the usr PATH entry in file /etc/profile 3. I copied my .profile file to .xsessionrc. The result was, regardless of login method, as a normal user I had the same PATH (plus any changes from my ~/.profile file). 4. I modified the root PATH entry in file /etc/profile When I became root via "sudo -s" I got root's path from /etc/profile. When I became root via "sudo -i" I got the desired PATH change from root's ~/.profile. So far, I'm a happy camper! ANOTHER LESSON LEARNED While I was experimenting with the desktop settings, I stupidly and blindly added an exit line to cut out some 20-year old cruft in the end of the .profile file and all of a sudden I lost my xterms and couldn't find a way to edit the broken file. Fortunately, I had emacs as one of my menu items: I chose the GUI version and was able to repair the .profile file successfully. Maybe another editor would have worked, but I'm not going to experiment with that any time soon! -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 9:27 AM Tom Browder wrote: > > Every time I set up a new host, I have to jump through the hoops trying to > get the same PATH for > ordinary users as well as root... This Debian wiki doc pretty much details the information Greg has been giving us: https://wiki.debian.org/EnvironmentVariables Thanks, all! -Tom
Re: Need help with PGP signature verification
On Sun, Oct 8, 2023 at 14:39 Thomas Schmitt wrote: > Hi, Thanks, Thomas. I did get the signers key fingeprints from their personal github pages. I would go the full security route if it were only my use I'm concerned with, but I'm working on a Raku module for others and I don't want them to be held up by having to fumble with key trust before at least downloading the files with a first order check with data I can provide. I'll make sure to document exactly what I'm providing. Best regards, -Tom
Re: Need help with PGP signature verification
On Sun, Oct 8, 2023 at 05:13 Tom Browder wrote: > On Sun, Oct 8, 2023 at 3:29 AM DdB > wrote: > > Am 08.10.2023 um 01:16 schrieb Tom Browder: > > > I'm willing to trust published PGP key fingerprints for signers of > > > Rakudo downloadable files. > > > Question: How can I get the fingerprint from the downloads? I found a usable answer. Run "gpg file.asc" and the output shows the two fingerprints: the primary key fingerprint and the subkey fingerprint. I wish there was a PGP cookbook around somewhere. Thanks, all. -Tom
Re: Need help with PGP signature verification
On Sun, Oct 8, 2023 at 3:29 AM DdB wrote: > Am 08.10.2023 um 01:16 schrieb Tom Browder: > > I'm willing to trust published PGP key fingerprints for signers of > > Rakudo downloadable files. > > Question: How can I get the fingerprint from the downloads? > There is more than just one way to archieve this, first result from I should have been more specific. I have the following: -BEGIN PGP SIGNATURE- iHUEABYKAB0WIQTdpb2j9c3OmfntVsEsxulzgY84awUCZQ1GBgAKCRAsxulzgY84 a+jhAQCZ0lLh1EnB1AwrgW0zPBp801OOeJ2QUiDBOGXBbrl/7QD/ZQe738sF2tCR 43SAvJOfT3b4YpGdfSUj9F7XNDoovQM= =mNqK -END PGP SIGNATURE- I need the fingerprint from that to compare with the fingerprints I know from Github to see if it's from the same key. I think using openssl might be the easiest, but all the tools seem to have a huge number of options and a vocabulary that's very malleable. Thanks. -Tom
Need help with PGP signature verification
I'm willing to trust published PGP key fingerprints for signers of Rakudo downloadable files. Question: How can I get the fingerprint from the downloads? The products I download are (1) the file of interest, (2) a PGP signed checksums file with various shaX hashes for the file, and (3) a separate file containing a PGP signature. Thanks so much. -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Tue, Sep 26, 2023 at 18:32 Tom Browder wrote: > On Tue, Sep 26, 2023 at 18:11 Tom Browder wrote: > >> On Tue, Sep 26, 2023 at 16:15 Andy Smith wrote: >> > ... > >> Well, I wanted to do it all in one program, but I guess I could break it >> up into two separate programs. I'll have to think about what I'm really >> trying to do. >> > > Another issue is precompilation. I need to find out how to work around > that somehow. Otherwise I would need two separate modules instead of the > single one I'm currently using. > One of our experts says that is not a problem, so I'm heading in that direction. -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Tue, Sep 26, 2023 at 18:11 Tom Browder wrote: > On Tue, Sep 26, 2023 at 16:15 Andy Smith wrote: > ... > Well, I wanted to do it all in one program, but I guess I could break it > up into two separate programs. I'll have to think about what I'm really > trying to do. > Another issue is precompilation. I need to find out how to work around that somehow. Otherwise I would need two separate modules instead of the single one I'm currently using.
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Tue, Sep 26, 2023 at 16:15 Andy Smith wrote: > Hello, ... Why does any of that stop you from only using the dev Raku once > you've used the packaged Raku to install it? Well, I wanted to do it all in one program, but I guess I could break it up into two separate programs. I'll have to think about what I'm really trying to do. Thanks for your input, Andy. -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Mon, Sep 25, 2023 at 10:03 Greg Wooledge wrote: ... Greg, one more file I don't think we've discussed: '~/.bash_aliases'. How should I handle that in this variable login climate? Thanks. -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Mon, Sep 25, 2023 at 17:45 Andy Smith wrote: ... > I'd make it all run with one raku from one place, or else I'd > specify the full path to the special raku that is needed. > > Anything else sounds like a great foot-gun left lying around for > others or myself a week from now. > > Perl and Python virtual environments typically have a script which > sets the path to the interpreter once you enter them, and then > everything is self-contained from there. ... You do not understand the problem, Andy: Debian's package version of raku is over two years old, and it is NOT installed by default. My script uses that raku as a bootstrap to update to the latest release provided as a Debian package format similar to the manner in which PostgreSQL can be maintained in its latest state with an out-of-Debian package location. Perl, on the other hand, is very current, installed as a default Debian package, and not changing as fast as raku (improved releases almost every month). Python is its own weird thing which I ignore as much as possible. Cheers! -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Mon, Sep 25, 2023 at 08:50 Tom Browder wrote: ... > I think I need to have the program change all the path-affecting files > specified by Greg and others so that PATH includes both locations with the > new location coming before the original location. > ... And that all got me looking at 'adduser' and '/etc/skel' where I do not see an '.xsessionrc' file. Does it cause harm if one logs into a remote host regardless of its lack or presence of various graphics features? -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Mon, Sep 25, 2023 at 06:08 Tom Browder wrote: > On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 17:23 Tom Browder wrote: > >> On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 17:04 Greg Wooledge wrote: >> >>> On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 04:45:11PM -0500, Tom Browder wrote: >>> > I'm sure I was too casual in my comments. I want all users, including >>> root, >>> > to have the Raku executables in their PATH, nothing else would be >>> changed >>> > from current use >> >> ... > >> Ah, good old X-Y. >> >> Create symlinks from /usr/local/bin/ to wherever the programs are >>> physically installed. Then don't touch PATH at all. >> >> My brain isn't clicking on all eight, but I think you suggested that >> before--I'll try that, thanks, Greg! >> > Well, that's not going to work. I failed to say my program is a bit more complicated: 0. It's executed by 'root'. 1. It uses 'raku'. 2. During its operation, the location of the 'raku' version to be used after it completes changes from '/usr/local/bin' to '/opt/rakudo-pkg/bin'. 3. Due to requirement 2, I don't think it's safe to attempt to overwrite current executables with a symlink to new executables of the same basename. I think I need to have the program change all the path-affecting files specified by Greg and others so that PATH includes both locations with the new location coming before the original location. Then the script can safely remove the original version. -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 17:23 Tom Browder wrote: > On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 17:04 Greg Wooledge wrote: > >> On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 04:45:11PM -0500, Tom Browder wrote: >> > I'm sure I was too casual in my comments. I want all users, including >> root, >> > to have the Raku executables in their PATH, nothing else would be >> changed >> > from current use > > ... > Ah, good old X-Y. > > Create symlinks from /usr/local/bin/ to wherever the programs are >> physically installed. Then don't touch PATH at all. > > My brain isn't clicking on all eight, but I think you suggested that > before--I'll try that, thanks, Greg! > And the reason was it requires linking a bunch of executables and I didn't have time to do that. Now I'm scripting the job. -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 17:04 Greg Wooledge wrote: > On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 04:45:11PM -0500, Tom Browder wrote: > > I'm sure I was too casual in my comments. I want all users, including > root, > > to have the Raku executables in their PATH, nothing else would be changed > > from current use. > > Ah, good old X-Y. > > Create symlinks from /usr/local/bin/ to wherever the programs are > physically installed. Then don't touch PATH at all. My brain isn't clicking on all eight, but I think you suggested that before--I'll try that, thanks, Greg! -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 16:27 wrote: > Tom Browder wrote: > > Every time I set up a new host, I have to jump through the hoops > > trying to get the same PATH for ordinary users as well as root, ... > Setting the same path for ordinary users as for root sounds like > something only a fool would do, so I don't think there's a foolproof > way to do it. I'm trying not to be a fool--that's why I'm checking with the Debian community. I'm sure I was too casual in my comments. I want all users, including root, to have the Raku executables in their PATH, nothing else would be changed from current use. When I get the path-setting portion of my program ready, I will show the pertinent parts here along with a link to the complete code. Note I will ensure any file modified will have its current state backed up prior to changing it. Cheers! -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 15:55 Michael Kjörling <2695bd53d...@ewoof.net> wrote: > On 24 Sep 2023 15:45 -0500, from tom.brow...@gmail.com (Tom Browder): > > Bummer, unfortunately, that's the answer I expected. Now if I can find a > > clean way to do that consistently. > > Well, I still think the gist of my suggestion stands: make a script to > set up $PATH the way you want it (for both root and non-root users > respectively); put that script somewhere, anywhere really; and invoke > it from where you need $PATH set up. > > That way, if you miss some path (no pun intended), all you need is to > figure out how to execute or source a script through there in such a > way that it affects the resultant environment; and if you want to make > adjustments later, you can do that in _one_ location. In effect, I will doing that. I'm in the process of automating non-package installation of Raku on modern Debian hosts. That was the genesis of my question, and I will be inserting the required PATH info at the approriate place for any login type as pointed out by Greg and the Debian docs. Thanks, Michael and Greg. -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 14:52 Greg Wooledge wrote: ... > All you can do is put your desired configuration changes in ALL of > the applicable places for all of the login types that are possible on > your system. That's it. There is no other way. ... Bummer, unfortunately, that's the answer I expected. Now if I can find a clean way to do that consistently. Thanks, Greg. -Tom
Re: Sunrise and Sunset from terminal
On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 00:00 s...@gmx.com wrote: > Is there a way to get sunrise and sunset time from command interpreter? > I want to use its output for a script! You can calculate it yourself using a Raku module at https://github.com/tbrowder/Astro-Sunrise/; Search https://raku.land to find any published Raku module. There are also Perl modules to do the same thing to be found on CPAN. -Tom
Re: PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
On Sun, Sep 24, 2023 at 09:27 Tom Browder wrote: For bash users only, please. -Tom
PATH revisited: one PATH to "rule the [Debian] World"
Every time I set up a new host, I have to jump through the hoops trying to get the same PATH for ordinary users as well as root, regardless of how they log in. Reading the man pages doesn't help my old brain with all the caveats. Can anyone offer a foolproof, programmatic solution to my conumdrum? Thanks. -Tom
Re: Letting Windows go: scanning
On Sat, Sep 23, 2023 at 09:19 Curt wrote: > > On 2023-09-22, Tom Browder wrote: > > > > However, I so far have not been able to scan both sides of a document in my > > two-side document feeder the way I could could on Windows--bummer, but this > > is a huge win so far. > > > > How and what have you tried? I used Xsane and tried setting source to Duplex It scanned, but only scanned the front side Then I set it to ADF and scanned the same document. It scanned, but only scanned the front side. When I use Windows, with the same steps, it scans both sides. I have tried the VueScan, but it doesn't work, either. I sent their trouble report to them and they said they would get back to me. -Tom
Re: Letting Windows go: scanning
Fri, Sep 22, 2023 at 2:40 PM Carles Pina i Estany wrote: ... > I think that you have lots of advice in the thread. But if I can add > something: I've also used https://www.hamrick.com/ when sane didn't have > the drivers. It's a paid software, for Linux, I had good experience with > it. I just looked at it Carles, it is worth a try unless someone can offer a solution to the two-sided scanning I can't do yet. Thank you! -Tom
Re: Letting Windows go: scanning
On Fri, Sep 22, 2023 at 11:35 AM Curt wrote: > On 2023-09-21, Tom Browder wrote: > > Where do you find the "blob?" I've seen reference to it but haven't yet > > found it. ... > Most Linux distributions include HPLIP with their software, but most do not > include the plug-in. Therefore, it is a safe practice to run a utility called > "hp-setup", which, will install the printer into the CUPS spooler, download, > and install the plug-in at the appropriate time. > https://developers.hp.com/hp-linux-imaging-and-printing/binary_plugin.html Ah, thanks. After a bit of fumbling, I got it installed (had to use "hp-plugin") and used Xsane and can see and can operate my scanner!! GREAT Now, I can scan and save to PDF via my document feeder as well as my flatbed scanner. GREAT However, I so far have not been able to scan both sides of a document in my two-side document feeder the way I could could on Windows--bummer, but this is a huge win so far. Thanks so much! -Tom
Re: Letting Windows go: scanning
On Thu, Sep 21, 2023 at 08:30 Erwan David wrote: ... > I have a HP LaserJet Pro MFP m125nw, installing it through hplip, It is > seen on network by xsane and I can scan. Just have to install a binary > blob each time hplip is upgraded, but it is rather straightforward Where do you find the "blob?" I've seen reference to it but haven't yet found it. Thanks. -Tom
Re: Letting Windows go: scanning
On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 18:19 gene heskett wrote: So whats wrong that no one has suggested sane/xsane? They have, Gene, the problem is getting it to recognize my HP scanner. BTW, I have owned many laser HP printers, and one Brother (no inket among them). I went back to HP after the Brother. And my HP is laser, two-sided print and scan, single paper feed, and dual paper size feed. -Tom
Re: Letting Windows go: scanning
On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 13:37 Tom Browder wrote: > > > On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 13:27 Klaus Singvogel > wrote: > >> Michael Kjörling wrote: >> > On 20 Sep 2023 12:26 -0500, from tom.brow...@gmail.com (Tom Browder): >> > > “Laser Jet Pro 400 MFP m425dn” >> > >> > openprinting.org doesn't seem to have heard of it, unfortunately: >> > >> > https://openprinting.org/printers/manufacturer/HP >> >> Unfortunately you made only the first step and not all. >> >> Looking at >> https://openprinting.org/driver/hplip/ >> >> will lead you via "Supported Devices"-link to >> >> https://developers.hp.com/hp-linux-imaging-and-printing/supported_devices/index >> >> At HP's website you'll search and find the information that it is Full >> supported. >> >> HP LaserJet 400 MFP m425dn >> Min HPLIP Version: 3.12.6 >> Chrome OS Support: Yes >> Driver Plug-in: Yes >> Supported Level: Full >> Print Model: Mono >> Scan PC: Yes >> >> So, install the required hplip packages for Debian (OpenSource) and see >> that it is supported. > > > Thank you, Klaus! I was disappointed I didn't find it because I remember > having to modify some CUPS driver or interface many years ago when I first > got the printer. And that was to print. I'm not sure I ever got reliable > scanning on Linux. > > I'll report back soon. > I got stuck with incompatible package requirements for network use, so I filed a bug report. Their support is active (last release was this year), so I'm hoping for a fix. In the meantime, I do have the two alternatives: (1) scan to USB drive or (2) use my Windows box. Since I'm unhooking my KVM switch setup to make my wife happy (she's a neat freak and I'm not), I'll have to manually unplug KVM cables from the Debian box to hook up them up to the Windows box, so laziness and the desire for weening from Windows will probably dictate option 1. -Tom
Re: [a bit OT] Automate a (G o o g l e) search from a list of strings
On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 13:36 Nicolas George wrote: > Tom Browder (12023-09-20): > > What if you used an equilavent script but increased and randomized time ... We can try to exercise some common sense, in particular by comparing to > similar situations. For example, if you take something that does not > belong to you, but do it at night, when everybody is sleeping and being > very careful you do not make a step squeak or break the laser beams, is > it still stealing? I apologize. I was not referring to stealing, and I haven't read the details in the terms of use. What I should have asked was: "is a single query in the script okay?" If so, how much time would have to pass before the next query in order to adhere to the terms of service? In the distant past I have used Google's APIs to search mail, and I believe there was some kind of rate or time limit for their use. -Tom
Re: Letting Windows go: scanning
On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 13:27 Klaus Singvogel wrote: > Michael Kjörling wrote: > > On 20 Sep 2023 12:26 -0500, from tom.brow...@gmail.com (Tom Browder): > > > “Laser Jet Pro 400 MFP m425dn” > > > > openprinting.org doesn't seem to have heard of it, unfortunately: > > > > https://openprinting.org/printers/manufacturer/HP > > Unfortunately you made only the first step and not all. > > Looking at > https://openprinting.org/driver/hplip/ > > will lead you via "Supported Devices"-link to > > https://developers.hp.com/hp-linux-imaging-and-printing/supported_devices/index > > At HP's website you'll search and find the information that it is Full > supported. > > HP LaserJet 400 MFP m425dn > Min HPLIP Version: 3.12.6 > Chrome OS Support: Yes > Driver Plug-in: Yes > Supported Level: Full > Print Model: Mono > Scan PC: Yes > > So, install the required hplip packages for Debian (OpenSource) and see > that it is supported. Thank you, Klaus! I was disappointed I didn't find it because I remember having to modify some CUPS driver or interface many years ago when I first got the printer. And that was to print. I'm not sure I ever got reliable scanning on Linux. I'll report back soon. -Tom
Re: Letting Windows go: scanning
On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 12:46 Brad Rogers wrote: > On Wed, 20 Sep 2023 13:17:14 -0400 > Timothy M Butterworth wrote: > > Hello Timothy, > > >When I used to use HP MFD's I used to have to connect to it with USB to > >get scanning. I do not know if network scanning is now supported or not. Unfortunately, as Michael pointed out, no Linux driver for scanning can be found. However, I can always scan to a USB thumb drive--I forgot about that. Thanks, all. -Tom
Re: Letting Windows go: scanning
On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 12:11 Michael Kjörling <2695bd53d...@ewoof.net> wrote: > On 20 Sep 2023 12:06 -0500, from tom.brow...@gmail.com (Tom Browder): > > One major thing I use my windows host for is using my HP multifunction > > laser printer to scan to pdf to save locally. I have just installed ... > > So how can I get my Debuian host to see and use the scanner part? ... > "HP multifunction laser printer" would still encompass a fair number > of products. Can you be more specific? Sorry, Michael, it’s a “Laser Jet Pro 400 MFP m425dn” and it’s been a wonderful printer from the days when you could get HP help from a real person. Thanks. Cheers! -Tom
Letting Windows go: scanning
One major thing I use my windows host for is using my HP multifunction laser printer to scan to pdf to save locally. I have just installed gscan2pdf and sane but I am still missing something. I have tried printing docs from LibreOffice and it sees my networked printer and prints just fine. So how can I get my Debuian host to see and use the scanner part? Thanks so much. -Tom
Re: [a bit OT] Automate a (G o o g l e) search from a list of strings
On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 09:35 Andy Smith wrote: > Hello, > > On Wed, Sep 20, 2023 at 08:13:43AM +0200, steve wrote: > > Le 19-09-2023, à 16:52:24 +0200, Nicolas George a écrit : > > > what you intend is completely forbidden by Google's terms and > > > service. And they have detection: please only do this on a > > > computer and network access when you will be the only one > > > inconvenienced when they block your access. It happened on a > > > computer I co-administrate. What if you used an equilavent script but increased and randomized time between each search string? Or do you think just the single search is enough to trigger them? -Tom
Re: memtest86 (solved)
On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 09:10 Tom Browder wrote: > Here I am again seeking help. I have used memtest86 long ago when I burned > it on a CDROM disk. > Finally tested all my memory modules using a recent system rescue cd and its memtest86+. One bad module out of four. Sending bad module back for warranty replacement. Thanks for your help. Cheers! -Tom >
Re: OpenTaxSolver for US Federal tax: experiences?
On Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 10:37 Charles Curley < charlescur...@charlescurley.com> wrote: ... Can you run your H&R Block program on top of wine? > https://appdb.winehq.org Thanks, Charles. Actually, I'm really interested in the OpenTaxSolver. I don't like H&R that much, so I'm gonna try it in parallel with H&R Block's solution for tax year 2022 and see how they compare. You might want to take a look. And I wonder what Gene uses since he doesn't run Windows! Cheers, all! -Tom P.S. I did read your address and visited them. Cool! Are any more articles in the works? I hope so, and I hope to take advantage of the one on encryting a backup disk to do partial live disk encryption. I tried the whole system encrytion once and it's a pain.
OpenTaxSolver for US Federal tax: experiences?
I want to dump my Windows box. The main showstopper is my US tax programs. I currently use H&R Block. I just discovered there is at least one Linux version out there: opentaxsolver.sourceforge.net. Has anyone used it and can recommend it? Thanks, -Tom
Re: memtest86
On Thu, Sep 14, 2023 at 13:15 Alexander V. Makartsev wrote: ... > I know "memtest86" was before "memtest86+", but memtest86+ is a successor > > I just found my system rescue disk, booted it, entered the memtest86++ and see lots of FAILUREs (I have 128 Gb so that may be why it's been hit and miss). I'm trying to see if a log is or can be generated for my warranty repair. Thanks to all who gave advice! -Tom
Re: memtest86
On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 3:48 PM Tom Browder wrote: > > On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 3:32 PM Tom Browder wrote: > >> > On 13.09.2023 19:10, Tom Browder wrote: > >> >> Here I am again seeking help. I have used memtest86 long ago when I > >> >> I see that it's a Debian package, and I installed it. Now I see > >> >> memtest86 on my boot choice screen, but selecting memtest86 does > >> >> nothing. > >> >> > >> > That's weird. > > I just tried again with only memtest86+. After reboot, I get several > memtest86+ options but when I select one I gect a pretty Debian screen > with nothing apparent happening. Retried, nothing. -Tom
Re: memtest86
On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 3:32 PM Tom Browder wrote: >> > On 13.09.2023 19:10, Tom Browder wrote: >> >> Here I am again seeking help. I have used memtest86 long ago when I >> >> I see that it's a Debian package, and I installed it. Now I see >> >> memtest86 on my boot choice screen, but selecting memtest86 does nothing. >> >> >> > That's weird. I just tried again with only memtest86+. After reboot, I get several memtest86+ options but when I select one I gect a pretty Debian screen with nothing apparent happening. -Tom
Re: memtest86
On Wed, Sep 13, 2023 at 14:43 gene heskett wrote: > On 9/13/23 12:40, Alexander V. Makartsev wrote: > > On 13.09.2023 19:10, Tom Browder wrote: > >> Here I am again seeking help. I have used memtest86 long ago when I > >> burned it on a CDROM disk. > >> > >> I see that it's a Debian package, and I installed it. Now I see > >> memtest86 on my boot choice screen, but selecting memtest86 does > nothing. > >> > > That's weird. > > It works for me, although I use back-ported version 6.20 of "memtest86+" > > from Testing with a cosmetic patch. I like my grub menu tidy. :) > > I've now noticed you've wrote "memtest86", did you meant it to be > > "memtest86+"? No, I installed both. I'll try again with just memtest86 (I saw somewhere that memtest86+ was still being finalized, but that doesn't sound like it would be available if that were the case). memtest86 has its roots in 8086 16 bit code, and its been quite a party > for the coders to first bring it up to 32 bit, and finally to 64 bit. > That last version I downloaded and burned was memtest86 V9.4 which works > on my 6 core i5 as well as it did on 8086's but of course a bit faster. > A google search should get you a link to burn to a new cd/dvd, and it Will report back. -Tom
memtest86
Here I am again seeking help. I have used memtest86 long ago when I burned it on a CDROM disk. I see that it's a Debian package, and I installed it. Now I see memtest86 on my boot choice screen, but selecting memtest86 does nothing. I assume I probably have to add something to the grub2 menu to use it. I have searched for how to do that, but all I've been able to find are instructions on how to use it from a bootable USB thumb drive. My grub/boot foo has disappeared. Any help on using the installed memtest86 is greatly appreciated. As a fallback, I will go the USB route if I have to, :-( Cheers! -Tom
Re: cronitor.io for monitoring cron jobs
On Tue, Sep 12, 2023 at 00:54 Kushal Kumaran wrote: > On Mon, Sep 11 2023 at 05:59:37 AM, Tom Browder > wrote: > > Anyone using that system? It looks interesting to me. > > > I prefer healthchecks.io, mainly because cron job monitoring was all I > was looking for, and the software is open source. Thank you, Kushal. Best regards, -Tom
Re: Boot issue
On Sun, Aug 27, 2023 at 22:51 David Wright wrote: > On Sun 27 Aug 2023 at 14:27:09 (-0500), Tom Browder wrote: > > On Sun, Aug 27, 2023 at 13:27 Greg Wooledge wrote: > > > > > On Sun, Aug 27, 2023 at 08:19:35PM +0200, Hans wrote: > > > > When I boot the system, then the drives are not mounted as set in > > > /etc/fstab. > > > > For example, the SDD should mounted to /space, and the unencrypted > HDD > > > > ... > > > > > Use UUIDs or Labels instead. These won't change, while the device > names > > > *will* change. > > > > > > Please remind me of when they might change. > > As and when the kernel discovers them, ie at boot for those fitted, > and when you plug them is for any others. > > > I'm pretty sure on my latest > > host the debian installer used /dev/sda (and partions 1 and 2) instead > of a > > label or UUID. > > It might be possible to mistakenly read /etc/fstab as showing that, > because of the comment line above the active line: > > # > # / was on /dev/sda4 during installation > UUID=a1b2c3d4-e5f6-1234-dcba-a1b2c3d4e5f6 / ext4 > errors=remount-ro 0 1 > /dev/sr0/media/cdrom0 udf,iso9660 user,noauto 0 0 > > BTW I've not seen the d-i use LABELs, I presume because it can't be > certain that they're always going to be unique. > > > Of course I do want to add drives eventually, so maybe I do need to > change > > to do that safely. > > Some computers can give the user a rude awakening when the kernel > unexpectedly discovers a plugged-in device before the internal drive. Ah, it's been awhile. Yes, I see the comments in /etc/fstab. Thank you for reminding me. Usually I just do "df" and that always shows me the /dev/sdaX so I forget about looking closer. Cheers! -Tom
Re: cronitor.io for monitoring cron jobs
On Mon, Sep 11, 2023 at 07:25 wrote: > On Mon, Sep 11, 2023 at 06:46:43AM -0500, Tom Browder wrote: > > On Mon, Sep 11, 2023 at 06:22 wrote: > > > > > On Mon, Sep 11, 2023 at 05:59:37AM -0500, Tom Browder wrote: > > > > Anyone using that system? It looks interesting to me. > > > > > > Gah. My eyes hurt now after having looked at the web site. > > > > > > Do you recommend any other prebuilt system to automate such monitoring > and > > gathering of data and presenting it on a website? (Other than building > from > > scratch., yuk.) > > Not much experience myself, but icinga (packaged with Debian) comes > to mind (it can do much more, though). > > "Apt search monitor" and subsequent filtering with "web" yields half > a dozen other interesting hits. Thanks, Tomas, I was not savy enough to think of that! -Thomas P.S. We share a good, Biblical name, don't we?
cronitor.io for monitoring cron jobs
Anyone using that system? It looks interesting to me. -Tom
Re: xclip - how to use without a graphics display for testing on Github workflows
On Sun, Sep 10, 2023 at 11:49 Max Nikulin wrote:
> On 10/09/2023 16:44, Tom Browder wrote:
> > On Sat, Sep 9, 2023 at 21:06 Max Nikulin wrote:
> >
> >> You can create a mock-up and use it instead of real xclip binary.
> >
> > Sounds interesting, Max, can you show the code?
>
> Unless you need to test subtle issues like
>
>https://github.com/astrand/xclip/issues/20
>"Not closing stdout when setting clipboard from stdin"
>
> faced by e.g. tmux users, something simple should be enough:
>
> #!/bin/sh -eu
> : "${XCLIP_MOCK_FILE:=$HOME/.xclip-mock}"
>
> while [ $# -gt 0 ]; do
> case "$1" in
> -i|-in)
> ;;
> -o|--out) exec cat -- "$XCLIP_MOCK_FILE"
> ;;
> -selection|-target) shift
> ;;
> *) # FIXME xclip treats all unknown options at any
> position as files
> break
> ;;
> esac
> shift
> done
> exec cat -- "$@" >"$XCLIP_MOCK_FILE"
Thank, Max! I'll pass it on to the guy who needs it. He slings Wolfram
language code for a living.
Best regards,
-Tom
Re: xclip - how to use without a graphics display for testing on Github workflows
On Sat, Sep 9, 2023 at 21:06 Max Nikulin wrote: > On 10/09/2023 06:36, Tom Browder wrote: > > We have a Raku module that uses "xclip" during use on a computer with a > > monitor. We need to test it with Github workflows which does not have a > > graphics device. > > > > Is there any "xclip" option to allow for testing without a graphics > > devivce without throwing an error? Or any suggestion for a work around? > > You can create a mock-up and use it instead of real xclip binary. Sounds interesting, Max, can you show the code? Thanks. Cheers! -Tom
Re: xclip - how to use without a graphics display for testing on Github workflows
On Sat, Sep 9, 2023 at 18:47 Greg Wooledge wrote: > On Sat, Sep 09, 2023 at 06:36:56PM -0500, Tom Browder wrote: > > Is there any "xclip" option to allow for testing without a graphics > devivce … Thanks, Greg! -Tom
xclip - how to use without a graphics display for testing on Github workflows
We have a Raku module that uses "xclip" during use on a computer with a monitor. We need to test it with Github workflows which does not have a graphics device. Is there any "xclip" option to allow for testing without a graphics devivce without throwing an error? Or any suggestion for a work around? Thanks. -Tom
Re: Sleep: out of control
On Fri, Sep 1, 2023 at 06:08 Tom Browder wrote: My conclusion: I need to find out which sleep modes turn off power to the > external input devices. > I forgot to mention that my problem child is all SSD, no moving parts (from SilentPC). -Tom
Re: Sleep: out of control
On Fri, Sep 1, 2023 at 01:15 The Wanderer wrote: > On 2023-08-31 at 13:03, zithro wrote: ... Tom, does your version of that file not include a comment with that same > information? Yes, and they are uncommented and set to 'no'. So far all seems to be working. Now I need to study and understand those sleep options. I also realize I didn't report some other details. I have three hosts (Debian PC, Window PC, and Debian laptop) connected to a single monitor, keyboard, and mouse via a KVM switch. The other day, when I finally emailed for advice, I had noticed the following: When switching the KVM between the Win and Deb hosts, I could see the mouse was not getting power (no sensor light) nor was the keyboard or monitor screen. So that is probably why I could not wake up the Debian PC by stirring the mouse or hitting a key. My conclusion: I need to find out which sleep modes turn off power to the external input devices. -Tom
Re: Sleep: out of control
On Thu, Aug 31, 2023 at 16:20 zithro wrote: > On 31 Aug 2023 14:17, Tom Browder wrote: > > Note: The systemd "/etc/systemd/sleep.conf" file has all entries > commented > > out. > > Take care, commenting may NOT be the same as disabling/setting to NO ! > > Each software has its own rules, but _usually_ when you comment out the > lines, the app built-in defaults will be used (like openssh). > Systemd behaves like that, at least that's what I observed after > commenting out the NTP server lines of systemd-timesync. > > You should uncomment and specify NO like what Michel Verdier posted. > Ofc, if the units are masked/disabled, I guess those values are not > used/read. > But you never know, so belts and suspenders ! Yes, I agree, and I have already done that. Thanks! -Tom P.S. I rely on you experts because I know how much I don't know, and I can't even guess how much else there is to know. Thanks for covering for me! > >
Re: Sleep: out of control
On Thu, Aug 31, 2023 at 11:50 AM Michel Verdier wrote: > On 2023-08-31, Tom Browder wrote: > > Is there a way to definitely deactivate all OS-related power changes so the > > power button has only two functions (on/off)? > > To disable all sleep/suspend/hibernation I put in /etc/systemd/sleep.conf > > [Sleep] > AllowSuspend=no > AllowHibernation=no > AllowSuspendThenHibernate=no > AllowHybridSleep=no Adding that, too, thanks. -Tom
Re: Sleep: out of control
On Thu, Aug 31, 2023 at 08:12 Marco wrote: > Am 31.08.2023 schrieb Tom Browder : > > > Is there a way to definitely deactivate all OS-related power changes > > so the power button has only two functions (on/off)? > > You can disable sleep/hibernate at all. > > sudo systemctl mask sleep.target suspend.target hibernate.target > hybrid-sleep.target Thanksso much, Marco, I'll give that a try and report back in a couple of days. -Tom
Sleep: out of control
My main Debian host is going to sleep and I can't awaken it without holdiing the power button down for some period. We have had some neighborhood power issues recently, and I have been manually powering down while away for a few short trips (no UPS yet, either, but my Windows box next to the Debian host [same power source] is solidly running). A search of the logs shows entries for power from various system sources on a daily basis (syslog)::, but I haven't seen anything about overheating or such. I know the internal motherboard thermal sensors work (don't ask), so I'm not worried about real overheating. Is there a way to definitely deactivate all OS-related power changes so the power button has only two functions (on/off)? Note: The systemd "/etc/systemd/sleep.conf" file has all entries commented out. Thanks for any ideas. -Tom
Re: Safing.io
On Sat, Aug 26, 2023 at 17:26 Nate Bargmann wrote: > * On 2023 26 Aug 14:27 -0500, Tom Browder wrote: > > I was watching a Linux distro video on YouTube this morning, and one of > the > > sponsors was Safin.io which hosts a multi- Erg, typo, should be: safing.io -Tom
Re: Boot issue
On Sun, Aug 27, 2023 at 13:27 Greg Wooledge wrote: > On Sun, Aug 27, 2023 at 08:19:35PM +0200, Hans wrote: > > When I boot the system, then the drives are not mounted as set in > /etc/fstab. > > For example, the SDD should mounted to /space, and the unencrypted HDD ... > Use UUIDs or Labels instead. These won't change, while the device names > *will* change. Please remind me of when they might change. I'm pretty sure on my latest host the debian installer used /dev/sda (and partions 1 and 2) instead of a label or UUID. Of course I do want to add drives eventually, so maybe I do need to change to do that safely. Thanks. -Tom
Safing.io
I was watching a Linux distro video on YouTube this morning, and one of the sponsors was Safin.io which hosts a multi-capability firewall and network management device available for download. It looks interesting to me, a firewall-challenged sys admin hobbyist. Has anyone tried it? It sounds great, even the free version. Cheers, all. -Tom
Re: Using the bash shell: determine if the root user used 'sudo -i'
On Sat, Aug 26, 2023 at 10:42 wrote: > On Sat, Aug 26, 2023 at 04:45:54PM +0200, DdB wrote: > > Am 26.08.2023 um 16:25 schrieb Tom Browder: > > > Is there a way to distinguish whether 'sudo -i' was used or not? > > > > > Sorry, i am not an expert on this. But ... since years i am using this > > to check for it: > > > > > # if `echo $HOME` is not "/root" or the working dir (pwd) is not > "/root", then this was not executed with "sudo -i" > > > assert "echo $HOME" /root "nicht mit sudo -i aufgerufen" > > > assert pwd /root "nicht mit sudo -i aufgerufen" > > > > hope, this will give you a clue ;-) > > DdB > > Unless, of course, the shell does "export HOME=/root" at some point > after start. Or one of the other fifty-two ways to achieve that. > > That's why I think Roberto is right elsewhere in this thread. > > Basically it is not possible to find out, so it makes sense to > think about the question "why do I need this?" to zoom into what > the real problem is. Perhaps that one can be solved :-) As I think I replied earier, I am now checking the script is in the required directory in order to be executed (by the root user). I am not concerned with any other caveats or use by any unauthorized users for any nefarious purpose. I consider this thread completed. Thanks to all who responded--Debian users are the best! -Tom
Re: Using the bash shell: determine if the root user used 'sudo -i'
On Sat, Aug 26, 2023 at 10:57 Greg Wooledge wrote: > On Sat, Aug 26, 2023 at 10:49:45AM -0500, Tom Browder wrote: > > I would like to know whether 'sudo -i' or 'sudo -s' was used. ... > In fact, I suspect "I need to know if the cwd is /root" is STILL an X-Y > problem. It's sounding like "I need to ensure my script's working > directory is /foo". If that's truly the case, just do "cd /foo || exit" > at the top of the script. ... Excellent mind-reading, Greg! So to use your line I will put in that dir: "cd /required-dir || exit" Thanks so much. And thanks to all others who responded. -Tom
Re: Using the bash shell: determine if the root user used 'sudo -i'
On Sat, Aug 26, 2023 at 09:32 Roberto C. Sánchez wrote: > On Sat, Aug 26, 2023 at 09:25:10AM -0500, Tom Browder wrote: > >In a previous thread it was shown how to detect a SUDO_USER in a bash > >shell. > >Is there a way to distinguish whether 'sudo -i' was used or not? I would like to know whether 'sudo -i' or 'sudo -s' was used. The reason is to know if the cwd is set to '/root' or '.' It's critical for the script execution -Tom
Using the bash shell: determine if the root user used 'sudo -i'
In a previous thread it was shown how to detect a SUDO_USER in a bash shell. Is there a way to distinguish whether 'sudo -i' was used or not? Thanks. -Tom
Re: setting paths for sudo (revisited)
On Mon, Aug 21, 2023 at 08:11 Greg Wooledge wrote: > On Mon, Aug 21, 2023 at 07:56:22AM -0500, Tom Browder wrote: > > For Greg: I'm trying to get my muscle memory to use "sudo -i" and "sudo > -s" > > as you said to become root user for more work (thanks for the great > > explanation). > > > > One more question: when I need a one-liner as root, do I also use the > '-i' > > or '-s' with sudo to get the desired path? > > No. sudo sets the PATH for you. You only need -i or -s when you want > to get an interactive shell, instead of running a specific command. Thanks. When I get a multi-user system working with Raku as I want it to, I'll post it on this thread for your critique. On the original thread you kept wanting me to describe in detail my use case. The problem was (and still is) how to handle the following requirements: 1. Have root install the Raku executable for all users 2. Have the root user install modules for himself, but have normal users see and use them in their normal path. 3. Allow normal users to install their own modules which, for them only, would override the global version. This is somewhat analogous to Perl, but zef, the equivalebt Raku installer, is a bit pickier than cpanm about overrides. Best regards, -Tom P.S. Note Debian does have a Raku package, but most real users would rather use the latest and greatest. The language is under heavy development and there are real advantages for power users to stay current (a new version is normally release monthly). There is a painless Debian package system provided by our community similar to those provided by the PostgreSQL community. Do not think the syntax or user-space is changing due to the fast pace. Certain older things are deprecated and announced automatically when using them. Old code is usually compatible with new releases. A new release is always back-compatible until a new version is released. Raku is on its second version since its initial stable version release in December 2015. The third version, v6.e, is in the wings. And a user can always install an older release if all else fails.
setting paths for sudo (revisited)
For Greg: I'm trying to get my muscle memory to use "sudo -i" and "sudo -s" as you said to become root user for more work (thanks for the great explanation). One more question: when I need a one-liner as root, do I also use the '-i' or '-s' with sudo to get the desired path? Thanks, -Tom
