IBM Support

AIX Open Source: Bash Updates and Support for bash.rte

Question & Answer


Question

What is the support and update policy for the GNU bash shell on AIX 7.3 bash.rte?

Answer

IBM does not own or maintain GNU Bash code.  IBM AIX periodically builds the latest available Bash for AIX, and publishes it as an RPM package on the AIX Toolbox for Open Source Software download site. An installp file set (bash.rte) is built and released on the AIX 7.3 base operating system. 

  • The AIX bash.rte file set might be a lower level than the latest stable available Bash on the AIX Toolbox, since it is obtained and provided in the AIX build and test environment at the beginning of a release. 

SUPPORT

A) Usage support for bash

For example,  
- Syntax
- Shell programming and scripting
- General usage questions

The Open Source project communities (for example, http://www.gnu.org/software/bash) are the best source for full usage expertise, since that is where the product developers engage with users.

 - For Bash community expertise, see the Help-Bash page.
 - Read the GNU Bash manual

Additionally, the  IBM Development team, and members of the AIX Open Source community will answer questions, if possible, on the AIX Open Source Community Forum.

   -- Search for existing answers, then select "Post a Message" in the discussion section.
If you experience technical issues accessing the AIX Open Source community or forum, refer to the footer of the IBM Community forum page.
There is email, and "Contact Us" information for community support

B) Runtime support for bash.rte

If there is a problem with installing or updating the bash.rte file set, or loading a bash.rte file, you can open an AIX Case (See C) for assistance.

Examples of bash.rte issues supported through AIX Support:
- Errors updating or migrating the bash.rte file set
- Commands from the bash.rte file set do not run, or core dump
- Unexpected behavior, compared to GNU Bash documentation
C) Opening an AIX Support Case

If more assistance is required due to issues with the bash.rte file set (see preceding B section), use the following step-by-step instructions to contact IBM to open a case for software with an active and valid support contract.  

1. Document (or collect screen captures of) all symptoms, errors, and messages related to your issue.

2. Capture any logs or data relevant to the situation.

3. Contact IBM to open a case:

   -For electronic support, see the IBM Support Community:
     https://www.ibm.com/mysupport
   -If you require telephone support, see the web page:
      https://www.ibm.com/planetwide/

4. Provide a clear, concise description of the issue.

 - For more information, see: Working with IBM AIX Support: Describing the problem.

5. If the system is accessible, collect a system snap, and upload all of the details and data for your case.

 - For more information, see: Working with IBM AIX Support: Collecting snap data

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Document Information

Modified date:
18 July 2022

UID

ibm16497191

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