I'm using Debian 6.0 and I have recently modified the bash prompt for root. (from the .bashrc file). The problem is that when I am writing longer commands, the text starts from the same line overwriting the prompt instead of passing on the next line (or continuing on the same line as there is still room). I have attached a picture illustrating the problem (the green highlight is where the typing cursor is). I have also ssh-d into the machine, and the same thing happens. When I try to log in as another user (with a normal bash prompt), the problem is no longer present. Can you tell me what might be causing this issue and how to solve the problem please?

Attached Thumbnails

 

Well, first put the prompt back to what it was (or the same as a working user).
2nd, show us what your new prompt definition looks like and tell us what you are trying to do.

At the first point, I wouldn't want that. I want to know how to be able to type normally with any prompt I want. That is not supposed to be a problem.

Secondly, the prompt definition ($PS1) is: \e[0;31m\t\e[m-\e[0;32m\[\u\]\e[m@\e[0;36m\h\e[m:\e[0;23m\w\e[m\e[0;32m\$\e[m

I'm trying to write commands longer than 10 characters without having the string I'm typing continue at the beginning of the line, overwriting the prompt (and being harder to read).

Try enclosing each of the colour escape sequences in escaped square brackets.
See "3.4 Non-Printing Characters in Prompts":
http://www.linuxselfhelp.com/howtos/...t-HOWTO-3.html
Also:
http://zeusville.wordpress.com/2007/...pping-problem/

1 members found this post helpful.

Woow! It completely solved the problem... Just when I thought the thread was dead. I can't thank you enough for putting this amount of effort for helping me. You really are a credit to this forum mister/ma'am.