curs_getch - Linux

Overview

curs_getch is a command used to read a single character from the standard input, without echoing it on the screen. It is often used in terminal-based user interfaces to capture user input without making it visible to others.

Syntax

curs_getch [options]

Options/Flags

  • -c — Screen Coordinates: Specifies the screen coordinates of the cursor.
  • -d — Duration: Sets the duration (in milliseconds) for which the character will be read.
  • -e — Echo Character: Sets the character to be echoed on the screen instead of the actual input.
  • -i — Input Mode: Specifies the input mode to be used. Possible values are:
    • line: Read input as a line of text.
    • char: Read input as a single character.
    • timed: Read input as a single character or a line of text, depending on the time elapsed.
  • -m — Message: Sets the message to be displayed on the screen.
  • -p — Password Mode: Hides the input character on the screen, making it suitable for password input.
  • -s — Silent Mode: Suppresses all output from the command.

Examples

Simple Character Input:

curs_getch

Reading a Password:

curs_getch -p

Displaying a Message and Reading Input:

curs_getch -m "Enter your name:"

Common Issues

  • Ensure that the terminal is set to raw mode for correct operation.
  • Using -d with -i line may not yield expected results.
  • Input may be truncated if the -d timeout expires.

Integration

Combination with Other Commands:

command1 | curs_getch | command2

Script Automation:

#!/bin/bash

read_input() {
    curs_getch -i line
}

echo "Enter your input:"
input=$(read_input)

Related Commands

  • tty
  • stty
  • read
  • getch