UNIX for Dummies Questions & Answers

I have to write a script where I poll a txt file for data (30 min interval)
Dependent on the data read, the script should return a message.

It should look something like the "code" below:

--
do while <data recived>
sleep 30m
read data from file
Done
If <data> x return "A"
If <data> y return "B"
--
How do I write a a script solving this issue?

Hello,

I believe that following are the issues in concern:
1. causing the process to wait/sleep for 30min
2. reading from the file
3. comparing the data received
4. showing the apt o/p

Since u need this process to run intermittently, atleast as it seems, I advise u to put it in a cron job.
If, u wish to use an infinite loop only or cannot use the cron for some reason, u must do this:
for 1 : sleep <number of secs> Eg:

Code:

sleep 1

causes a wait of 1 second
for 2,3,4: i dont think they should be a problem. If u have a prob in any of these please tell.

Regards,
HKansal