Passing parameters to middle of alias script

[eric stewart]

This is for the lazy person.
They want to set up an alias called Z to print a file in the background. I think it should look like
export alias Z='cat $1 &'
or
export alias Z='cat $* &'

All test show
ksh: 1: parameter not set
ksh: /etc/motd: cannot execute

TIA. Also if I did not assign some points to a question yesterday is it to late?

[Berlene Herren]

It's never too late!

Berlene

[John Palmer]

export alias Z='cat $1 &'
would only work within a script where $1 was declared. It won't work at command prompt level.

Alias works by substituting the text of the alias for the aliased command itself so typing Z results in the shell executing
cat $1 &

You get ksh: 1: parameter not set because $1 is not set and you have set -u on to warn about undeclared variables. Try man sh-posix.

How does the user intend supplying the name of the file that they want to cat? Would it be Z ?

If so, and they are really that lazy, just write a simple shell script such as:-
#!/usr/bin/sh
cat $1 &

Hope this helps,
John

[Andreas Voss]

Hi,

Your alias didn't work because the shell appends parameter after the whole alias.
Ie.: Z /etc/motd would give:
cat & /etc/motd
That's why you get the errors.
Think you have to create a script for it:
Put a file Z into a directory where PATH looks in with the contents:
lp $* &
And make chmod +x to it.
Regards

Andrew

[eric stewart]

They are that lazy.
They did not want to have an extra script.
They did not want to have to add the & at the end of the command line but make it part of the alias. Is that lazy:).
They were going to enter
Z /etc/motd
Remember this is just an example. The real alias is longer in command characters and length of execution.

[Brian M. Fisher]

I agree with the other responses. A simple script located in a directory that is already in the users search patch would make adding and changing the script easier than an alias.

Brian
<*(((>< er

[eric stewart]

Thanks for the replies.
I thought that's what the forum would reply.
I think this forum is great.
I can try different things and waste a lot of time but when the 'experts' tell me where to go to find something or that my thinking is correct on a solution it make me secure in my thought process.
I would also like to thank HP for supporting this. I am sure it cuts down on support calls.

[curt larson]

Why don't you create a shell function.
put it into which ever dot file has your alias'

function Z {
cat $1 &
return
}

[eric stewart]

Curt, your answer was right on but a little late. My cubical mate had done exactly what you suggested and showed me after he realized what the user really wanted.
YOu do get honorable mention.