Jon Perryman wrote: <begin extract> Also do only what is required while in xmem/ar mode. Those who maintain your code will be thankful. <end extract>
and I have two reactions. The first is, I suppose, negative. AR mode is still less familiar to some than traditional BRD 'mode'; but it is conceptually simpler and not, in my view, something to be avoided. I strongly encourage AR-mode use in every context in which the use of assembly language is appropriate, not just in authorized programs; and "those who maintain" authorized code should a fortiori be familiar with it. I don't know Mr. Perryman or his code, and I may therefore be misunderstanding his intent here; but it does strike that this is the kind of programming advice that has been described as "insular, suspiciously unanimous, risk-averse, and mediocre". People who write authorized code carelessly probably should not have been allowed to do so and certainly will not be allowed to continue to do so for long. (While I was writing this my 2nd point was preempted by Peter Relson's welcome supervening post.) John Gilmore, Ashland, MA 01721 - USA
