Sean Kelly wrote:
Andrei Alexandrescu wrote:
In what could be a supremely ironic turn, dmd has a null dereference
error that leaves me in the dust. I have to compile a largish D2 app
that last compiled in 2007. I was thinking all I have to do is fix the
language and compiler changes, which is what I was doing, until a
point where dmd unceremoniously aborts compilation with:
Segmentation fault
This looks like a null dereference, and is the fourth time I am seeing
compilers errors that don't mention file and line. Rule #1 of compiler
writing should be, whenever you fail for whatever reason, inform the
user about where you were. Trying to do forensics without such vital
information wastes hours like minutes.
If there was a need to convince me that null dereference can be
harmful, this situation drove the point home in a rather painful way.
That's nasty. And it reminds me that I really need to try and figure
out if file/line info can be reported for a segfault. Though I guess
the larger issue is whether D should have a non-null attribute :-)
Exactly. This event reminds me of a funny story that happened a couple
of years ago. A radio talk show was discussing banning use of cell
phones while driving. Some big wig politician calls the show and says,
"I am driving right now and have no problem using my cell phone." Turns
out the big wig subsequently did have an accident - that was heard on
the show - ending that very dialog.
I can't find that story, newer stories are covering it in google.
Andrei
