The 80 column limit, still useful?
- by Tim Post
Related:
While coding, how many columns do you format for?
Is there a valid reason for enforcing a maximum width of 80 characters in a code file, this day and age?
I mostly use C, however this question is language agnostic. Its also subjective, so I'll tag it as such.
Many individual projects set their own various coding standards, a guide to adjust your coding style. Many enforce an 80 column limit on code, i.e. don't force a dumb 80 x 25 terminal to wrap your lines in someone else's editor of choice if they are stuck with such a display, don't force them to turn off wrapping. Both private and open source projects usually have some style guidelines.
My question is, in this day and age, is that requirement more of a pest than a helper? Does anyone still login via the local console with no framebuffer and actually edit code? If so, how often and why cant you use SSH?
I help to manage a few open source projects, I was considering extending this limit to 110 columns, but I wanted to get feedback first. So, any feedback is appreciated.
I can see the need to make certain OUTPUT of programs (i.e. a --help /h display) 80 columns or less, but I really don't see the need to force people to break up code under 110 columns long into 2 lines, when its easier to read on one line.
I can also see the case for adhering to an 80 column limit if you're writing code that will be used on micro controllers that have to be serviced in the field with a god-knows-what terminal emulator.
Beyond that, what are your thoughts?
Edit:
This is not an exact duplicate. I am asking very specific questions, such as how many people are actually still using such a display. I am also not asking "what is a good column limit", I'm proposing one and hoping to gather feedback. Beyond that, I'm also citing cases where the 80 column limit is still a good idea.
I don't want a guide to my own "c-style", I'm hoping to adjust standards for several projects. If the duplicate in question had answered all of my questions, I would not have posted this one :) That will teach me to mention it next time.
Edit 2
question |= COMMUNITY_WIKI
