NAME¶
tm - meditate
SYNOPSIS¶
tm [
-number] [
time]
DESCRIPTION¶
Tm causes UNIX to go into a state in which all current activities are
suspended for
time minutes (default is 20). At the beginning of this
period,
tm generates a set of
number (default 3) transcendental
numbers. Then it prints a two- to six-character nonsense syllable
(
mantra) on every logged-in terminal (a
different syllable on
each terminal). For the remainder of the time interval, it repeats these
numbers to itself, in random order, binary digit by binary digit (memory
permitting), while simultaneously contemplating its kernel.
It is suggested that users utilize the time thus provided to do some meditating
themselves. One possibility is to close one's eyes, attempt to shut out one's
surroundings, and concentrate on the
mantra supplied by
tm.
At the end of the time interval, UNIX returns to the suspended activities,
refreshed and reinvigorated. Hopefully, so do the users.
FILES¶
Tm does not use any files, in an attempt to isolate itself from external
influences and distractions.
DIAGNOSTICS¶
If disturbed for any reason during the interval of meditation,
tm locks
the keyboard on every terminal, prints an unprintable expletive, and unlocks
the keyboard. Subsequent UNIX operation may be marked by an unusual number of
lost or scrambled files and dropped lines.
BUGS¶
If
number is greater than 32,767 (decimal),
tm appears to generate
rational numbers for the entire time interval, after which the behavior
of the system may be completely
irrational (i.e., transcendental).
WARNING¶
Attempts to use
flog(1) on
tm are invariably
counterproductive.