The problem with using a semaphore is that the kernel isn't smart enough to decrement the counter on your behalf if a process happens to abort early.

A better solution might be to implement an extended "highlander"-style solution as presented in my column that flocks one of N files instead of just one file. Then, if the process aborts for any reason, the flock is dropped, and a new process can claim its rightful slotishness.

I've had that extension to the highlander solution on my column to-do list for a number of months; perhaps it is time to finally write it up.

-- Randal L. Schwartz, Perl hacker
Be sure to read my standard disclaimer if this is a reply.

In reply to •Re: Effective use of IPC::Semaphore to limit number of concurrent executions of a scxipt by merlyn
in thread Effective use of IPC::Semaphore to limit number of concurrent executions of a scxipt by atcroft

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