Dir tool
Tools - The Directory Tool
The "dir tools" program is a utility that can be used to quickly create a new √directory file for download directories.
Although Color 64 will automatically create a √directory file the first time a caller requests a directory listing, that regeneration process can take quite a while, especially if the disk contains a large number of files.
The "dir tools" program is a small BASIC utility that leaves plenty of free memory available, allowing it to run much faster. The program provides two main functions:
- Create a directory from scratch
- Regenerate an existing directory listing
To use "dir tools", boot the ML shell using the "+shell" program, then load and run "dir tools". You may also load and run it after using any other program that already uses the ML, such as SETUP.
The tools program reads in the system PARMS file.
Once the program is running, use the Create Directory option when creating a √directory file for the first time. This routine will scratch any existing √directory file already present on the disk and then build a new one.
This method is much faster than allowing the full regeneration to occur while the BBS is running. If you intend to start the system with hundreds of files already present in your download areas, it is recommended that you use this create utility on all relevant disks before bringing the BBS online.
You can also use the Regenerate Directory option to scan the disk directory and update the √directory file with any new entries. The program will also remove entries that are no longer valid.
It is recommended that this regeneration function be run periodically as part of normal maintenance to keep the directory listing clean and accurate.
As with the create function, using the regeneration routine from this stand-alone utility is significantly faster than doing the same work from within the live BBS system.
Next Section: Password File Tool