Bash: execute command
 

I am writing a script that will run a gcc command. I want the script to stop executing if the gcc command fails and output something like "script failed" and then just stop.

Is there a way in bash to execute a command and catch errors from it in an if-then-else or something?

Thanks!

"Is there a way in bash to execute a command and catch errors from it in an if-then-else or something?"

Yes. Check the gcc return code within an if statement. Normal completion gives a return code of zero. An error gives a non-zero return code. You can even get fancy and take different actions based on which error code is returned.

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Steve Stites

Basically you need to check the value of exit code of gcc, using $? variable. Non-zero result means error.

Thanks! The $? was exactly what I was looking for. I googled a lot for "command execution return" and stuff but couldn't find a place that said "the return code of the command is in $?" :P

Thanks! That helped a lot. :D

Or this simpler solution:

or
--- rod.

make would require me to create a makefile. This script is supposed to compile, create an xml file, pack into a tar and move for installation. So.. ;)

So, like - what's wrong with having the *makefile* create the XML, pack it into a tar file, and move it for installation?

I would argue that a makefile (or, in some environments, Maven or Ant) would be the *better* (simpler, more robust, more flexible) solution!

IMHO .. PSM

Now you have really triggered my interest. Can Makefile do all that? I am currently using CMake as the build system for my project. Is there a way to create such wonderful Makefiles via CMake?

Please enlighten me. ;)

Ah, that signature just got me going! Here's a third way of doing it: