Re: [PATCH] checkpatch.pl: remove the 80 charactes punch card limit

From: David Daney
Date: Wed Jan 27 2010 - 15:46:33 EST


Joel Schopp wrote:



While the origins of 80 character lines dates back to punchcards there is a reason it has survived the test of time.

Has it though? If that were the undisputed truth, we wouldn't be having this discussion.

If you know of a usability study that quantifies the effect of line length on readibility of C code I'm willing to listen, and I'm sure others are too.


Good point. As with most things related to kernel development, a usability study or other market research from a reputable institution is a vital first step before taking any action.

We don't have any good peer reviewed research on the subject that I am aware of. I guess even contemplating a change at this early point would be rash and dangerous.

I withdraw my previous comments with respect to the 80 Column Question. Instead I would recommend elevating the WARNING to ERROR status.


David Daney
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