Re: Bookworm and its kernel: any updates coming?

2024-06-03 Thread Tom Browder
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?

2024-06-03 Thread Tom Browder
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?

2024-06-03 Thread 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

Anyone concerned?

-Tom


Re: Solution for KVM via a cat 5 connection

2024-05-27 Thread Tom Browder
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

2024-05-27 Thread Tom Browder
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

2024-05-04 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-12-05 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-12-05 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-12-05 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-12-05 Thread Tom Browder
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?

2023-12-04 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-12-04 Thread Tom Browder
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?

2023-12-03 Thread Tom Browder
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?

2023-12-03 Thread Tom Browder
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?

2023-12-02 Thread Tom Browder
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?

2023-12-02 Thread Tom Browder
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 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?

2023-12-02 Thread Tom Browder
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...]

2023-11-07 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-11-02 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-10-27 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-10-08 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-10-08 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-10-08 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-10-07 Thread 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?

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"

2023-09-26 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-26 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-26 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-26 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-26 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-25 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-25 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-25 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-24 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-24 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-24 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-24 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-24 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-24 Thread Tom Browder
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"

2023-09-24 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-23 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-22 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-22 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-21 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-20 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-20 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-20 Thread Tom Browder
 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

2023-09-20 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-20 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-20 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-20 Thread 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
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

2023-09-20 Thread Tom Browder
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)

2023-09-20 Thread Tom Browder
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?

2023-09-17 Thread Tom Browder
On Sun, Sep 17, 2023 at 10:37 Charles Curley <
charlescur...@charlescurley.com> wrote:
...

Can you run your H 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 that
much, so I'm gonna try it in parallel with H 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?

2023-09-17 Thread Tom Browder
I want to dump my Windows box. The main showstopper is my US tax programs.
I currently use H 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

2023-09-14 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-13 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-13 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-13 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-13 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-12 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-11 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-11 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-11 Thread Tom Browder
Anyone using that system? It looks interesting to me.

-Tom


Re: xclip - how to use without a graphics display for testing on Github workflows

2023-09-11 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-10 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-09 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-09 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-01 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-09-01 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-08-31 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-08-31 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-08-31 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-08-31 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-08-27 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-08-27 Thread Tom Browder
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

2023-08-26 Thread Tom Browder
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'

2023-08-26 Thread Tom Browder
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'

2023-08-26 Thread Tom Browder
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'

2023-08-26 Thread Tom Browder
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'

2023-08-26 Thread Tom Browder
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)

2023-08-21 Thread Tom Browder
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)

2023-08-21 Thread Tom Browder
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


Re: Looking for a good "default" font (small 'L' vs. capital 'i' problem)

2023-08-20 Thread Tom Browder
On Sun, Aug 20, 2023 at 15:45 James H. H. Lampert 
wrote:

> What Herr Rönnquist said.
> And given that I actually *do* set type with some regularity,

...

> (And for the record, my "go-to fonts" are all versions of Garamond.)


Wow, another Garamond lover! I do, too, love it (and bought a copy of
Adobe's version). I think Dr. Donald Knuth was the first person I may have
heard mention it.

How do you "set type" now? I have been "setting type" with Perl and raw
PostScript (then converting it to PDF) for many years.  I am now using Raku
PDF modules to "set type" directly in PDF documents. All CLI products.

-Tom


Re: Looking for a good "default" font (small 'L' vs. capital 'i' problem)

2023-08-19 Thread Tom Browder
On Sat, Aug 19, 2023 at 16:15 Russell L. Harris 
wrote:

> bumper sticker:  DYSLEXICS UNTIE!


I concur on sans comments. You might take a look at the Free* fonts family
(Debian packages “fonts-freefont-ttf” and “fonts-freefont-otf”).

-Tom


Re: Recommendations for a UPS?

2023-08-01 Thread Tom Browder
On Tue, Aug 1, 2023 at 15:19 Roy J. Tellason, Sr.  wrote:

> On Monday 31 July 2023 07:47:14 pm Charles Curley wrote:
> > Replacement batteries from APC are expensive compared to buying
> > elsewhere, but they come with return shipping for the exhausted battery
> > so they can recycle it.


Roy, and many others, thank you for a voluminious set of helpful and timely
responses. I need to assemble a spreadsheet to evaluate it all.

I'm sure I have enough to make an informed decision.

Blessiing to all my Debian friends!

-Tom


Re: OT: Re: Recommendations for a UPS?

2023-07-31 Thread Tom Browder
On Mon, Jul 31, 2023 at 13:28 john doe  wrote:

> On 7/31/23 19:23, Tom Browder wrote:

...

> > Any recommenndations from fellow Debian folks?
>

I have two APC and I'm pretty happy with those.


Would you mind saying the model numbers? Do they have replaceable batteries?

>
What type of recommendation are you looking for/ what are your requirements?


I want to provide reasonable battery support for my two running PCs (one
Debian, one Windows) for the power fluctuations we are seein lately in Gulf
Breeze, Florida.

I'll also assume that you are posting in here as you want something that
> is Debian compatible! ;^)


Yes, that would be nice, but I trust most folks' opinions here because they
are both reasonably computer proficient and most are very friendly.

-Tom


Recommendations for a UPS?

2023-07-31 Thread Tom Browder
I used to use UPS units from APC back when you could replace the battery. I
haven't had an UPS (but always on a surge protecter) for awhile, but
electricity (now FPL) is not as reliable in my new location and I need one.

All the reviews I've seen on Amazon for smaller capacity UPSs for APC and
Tripp Lite are not that great (I usually concentrate on the one- and
two-star reviews).

Any recommenndations from fellow Debian folks?

Thanks.

-Tom


Re: Convert PostScript .pfa to .pfb?

2023-07-15 Thread Tom Browder
On Sat, Jul 15, 2023 at 00:35  wrote:

> On Fri, Jul 14, 2023 at 05:09:22PM -0400, gene heskett wrote:



I have filed issues with:

+ https://github.com/fontforge/fontforge/issues
+ https://github.com/antlarr-suse/ttf-converter/issues

Watch progress of my Raku module FontConverter (a WIP) at:

+ https://github.com/tbrowder/FontConverter

Consider this thread ended.

Thanks, all, and cheers!

-Tom


Re: Convert PostScript .pfa to .pfb?

2023-07-14 Thread Tom Browder
On Fri, Jul 14, 2023 at 15:11 Charles Curley <
charlescur...@charlescurley.com> wrote:

> On Fri, 14 Jul 2023 07:37:50 -0500
> Tom Browder  wrote:
>
> > Well, life is not so simple. The example script doesn't work off the
> > mark because fontforge apparently has hard-coded paths.
>
> Well, that was silly of them.


And I may have messed it up. Any way, I found the python script I prefer,
so I'm heading in that direction.  My visit to the fontforge IRC
(#fontforge) was met quickly by a helpful person. The fontforge website,
code, and documentation are daunting. I just wish they has used Perl
instead of Python.

I did think of symlinks, but I haven't spent much time on the script yet (I
keep getting interrupted with "honey dos."

-Tom

P.S. I did read your signature--and enjoyed the visit (I have also visited
several times over the years). I also used your blog on network manager
when I was bringing up a couple of new hosts last--thanks!

P.P.S. Do you know Bill and Carol Mantey?


Re: Convert PostScript .pfa to .pfb?

2023-07-14 Thread Tom Browder
On Fri, Jul 14, 2023 at 07:57 Tom Browder  wrote:

> On Fri, Jul 14, 2023 at 07:37 Tom Browder  wrote:
>
>> On Thu, Jul 13, 2023 at 18:29 Tom Browder  wrote:
>> 
>>
>
> Aha, I found a python (ugh) ttf-converter on Github. I hope I can kludge a
> mod to do the conversion I need.
>

>From reading the code it looks as if it will convert .pfa (.t1, .t1a) files
as well as .pfb. Excellent!

-Tom


Re: Convert PostScript .pfa to .pfb?

2023-07-14 Thread Tom Browder
On Fri, Jul 14, 2023 at 07:37 Tom Browder  wrote:

> On Thu, Jul 13, 2023 at 18:29 Tom Browder  wrote:
> 
>

Aha, I found a python (ugh) ttf-converter on Github. I hope I can kludge a
mod to do the conversion I need.

-Tom


Re: Convert PostScript .pfa to .pfb?

2023-07-14 Thread Tom Browder
On Thu, Jul 13, 2023 at 18:29 Tom Browder  wrote:


>
Well, life is not so simple. The example script doesn't work off the mark
because fontforge apparently has hard-coded paths. For starters, it expects

   /share/fontforge/

but my installation has

  /usr/share/fontforge

But there is hope. Will report again when I get either success or the end
of my ideas.

-Tom


Re: Convert PostScript .pfa to .pfb?

2023-07-13 Thread Tom Browder
On Thu, Jul 13, 2023 at 17:06 Dan Ritter  wrote:

> Tom Browder wrote:


> https://fontforge.org/docs/faq.html#faq-outline-conversion


Yes, Dan, I'm using that for the .pfb conversion since they show that. And
I do plan to try with .t1/.pfa after I get my .pfb converter working. I was
hoping someone had already tried it.

Thanks.

-Tom


Convert PostScript .pfa to .pfb?

2023-07-13 Thread Tom Browder
I know the binary version of the PS fonts can be converted to TrueType by
FontForge.

However, is there a way to convert from the PS ASCII version .pfa file to
the binary .pfb file?

Thanks.

-Tom


Re: Apache logs and systemd

2023-06-16 Thread Tom Browder
On Thu, Jun 15, 2023 at 16:57 Andy Smith  wrote:

> Hi Tom,
>
> On Thu, Jun 15, 2023 at 01:52:10PM -0500, Tom Browder wrote:
> > Maybe it's related to the rsyslog changes ?
>
> apache by default does not use a syslog for logging though, it

…

Thanks, Andy.

I should have mentioned in OP the logs are in a dir under my own apache
installation dir, and they are text files. I’ll try to get “logrotate” to
take them over.

Best regards,

-Tom


Re: Apache logs and systemd

2023-06-15 Thread Tom Browder
On Wed, Jun 14, 2023 at 13:18 zithro  wrote:

> On 14 Jun 2023 19:30, Tom Browder wrote:

...

> I’ve been running httpd for many years, long before systemd came along.
> > Somewhere in the various upgrades over the years I lost the old rotating
> > logs.
> > Now I would like to initiate the rotating logs again. Can I do that with
> > systemd somehow?

...

Maybe it's related to the rsyslog changes ?
>
 From bullseye on, the package "rsyslog" is not mandatory anymore, and
> from bookworm, it's not even installed by default, but not disabled.
>
> You don't tell which Debian version you're using rn, but if bookworm,
> there is some info in bookworm release notes about rsyslog :

...

Thanks for the links. I'm running 10.3 on one server and 11 on the other
(can't remenber the names anymore since they all start with "b" it seems).
 :-)

-Tom


Re: Apache logs and systemd

2023-06-15 Thread Tom Browder
On Wed, Jun 14, 2023 at 13:15 Greg Wooledge  wrote:

> On Wed, Jun 14, 2023 at 12:30:37PM -0500, Tom Browder wrote:

..,

> If you want text log FILES (e.g. /var/log/whatever), install the rsyslog
> package.  For rotation, install logrotate.


Thank you.

...

> Systemd by itself only creates binary journals, which have to be read
> with journalctl.  There is absolutely no option to write text log files
> with systemd alone.


I was not aware of that, thanks.

-Tom


Apache logs and systemd

2023-06-14 Thread Tom Browder
I’ve been running httpd for many years, long before systemd came along.
Somewhere in the various upgrades over the years I lost the old rotating
logs.

Now I would like to initiate the rotating logs again. Can I do that with
systemd somehow?

Thanks,

-Tom


Re: Is perl still the No.1 language for sysadmin?

2023-04-02 Thread Tom Browder
On Sun, Apr 2, 2023 at 3:42 PM Michel Verdier  wrote:
>
> Le 2 avril 2023 Nicholas Geovanis a écrit :
>
> > Python is a more modern programming language than perl, and more in the
> > European CS tradition. Larry Wall said directly that the OO features in
> > perl were fake :-) because it was another fad. You can feel the difference

Larry Wall and his many helpers released Perl 6 (now Raku) on
Christmas Day, 2015. It is a much more modern language than Python,
and it was designed as a "one-hundred year language." Check it out at
https://Raku.org.

-Tom



Re: should CLI have a nice UI today?

2023-03-24 Thread Tom Browder
On Fri, Mar 24, 2023 at 12:00 Charlie Gibbs  wrote:
> IMHO computer systems should be ugly and boring.  Ugly, as in lacking
> all the eye candy that gets in the way, and boring as in just doing
> what you want without unpleasant surprises.
>
> Short answer: Not over my dead Teletype.

Hear, hear!

-Tom



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