in reply to I/O functions

Another place you might want to look at is Curses which is a termio/s wrapper library that greatly simplifies GUI-like text mode graphics. I use it all the time! It's fun and easy! Only $29.95! just joking, give it a whirl.
AgentM Systems nor Nasca Enterprises nor Bone::Easy nor Macperl is responsible for the comments made by AgentM. Remember, you can build any logical system with NOR.