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Date: Wed, 4 Apr 2012 00:56:07 +1000
Subject: Re: Number of languages known [was Re: Python is readable] - somewhat OT
From: Chris Angelico <rosuav@gmail.com>
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Xref: csiph.com comp.lang.python:22603

On Wed, Apr 4, 2012 at 12:46 AM, Grant Edwards <invalid@invalid.invalid> wr=
ote:
> Anybody remember DEC's VAX/VMS "patch" utility? =A0Apparently, DEC
> thought it was a practical way to fix things. =A0It had a built-in
> assembler and let you "insert" new code into a function by
> auto-allocating a location for the new code an hooking it into the
> indicated spot with jump instructions.
>
> The mind wobbled.

Not specifically, but I _have_ heard of various systems whose source
code and binary were multiple years divergent. It's actually not a
difficult trap to fall into, especially once you start patching
running systems. I've had quite a few computers that have been unable
to reboot without assistance, because they go for months or years
without ever having to go through that initial program load. (I've had
_programs_ that were unable to load, for the same reason.) But
auto-allocating a new spot for your expanded function? That's just...
awesome. My mind is, indeed, wobbling.

ChrisA