[comp.emacs] VMS GNU Emacs, tape status, problems

sasaki@HARVARD.HARVARD.EDU (Marty Sasaki) (04/20/87)

I am sorry for the delay with sending out VMS GNU Emacs tapes and
making object code and things available over the net. I have been
working on fixing what I consider a major bug, and have at last given
up on fixing it.

The problem has to do with memory allocation and shows up whenever the
run-time libraries are changed. Emacs uses sbrk and brk, which are
no-no's if you use malloc or related routines. Trouble is, most of the
C run time uses malloc, which means you can't use sbrk if you use the
C run time. The solution is to rewrite emacs malloc and the routines
in vmsmap.c.

Rather than waiting to fix this I've decided to send the tapes out and
make the objects, source, and documentation available on the net. If
Emacs is linked on the system that it will eventually run on, it seems
to work (although I've heard of one problem).

So, if you have sent me a tape, please send me an EMAIL note telling
me that you have done so. I don't think I have lost anyone's tape, but
by sending me a message I can be sure that you get one.

MFTU save sets will be available soon. BITNET access will also be made
available. Stay tuned.

Please don't send me any more tapes for at least a little while. If
you want a tape copy of GNU Emacs, contact the Free Software
Foundation, they are making VMS backup distribution kits which include
the tape and a printed manual.
----------------
  Marty Sasaki                          uucp:   harvard!sasaki
  Ziff Davis Technical Information Co.  arpa:   sasaki@harvard.harvard.edu
  80 Blanchard Road                     bitnet: sasaki@harvunxh
  Burlington, MA 01803                  phone:  617-273-5500