Global variables (was Re: Caution for those considering MSC 5.0)

[Lee Carver]

> All[*] global and static data in C is either initialised by the programmer
> (in which case, if it does not have the proper value on startup, the
> compiler is broken) or not initialised by the programmer (in which case,
> if it does not have zero values[**] on startup, the compiler is broken).

[flame on]
So, you like the system to do things FOR you.  I bet you like
implict declarations.  When was the last time you actually used
'int' to declare an integer variable?

> >Rule of thumb is NEVER assume any UN-initialized variable contains
> >zero (or NULL)...

Thataway, let him have it!

> You can do this if you wish.  Remember, *automatic* variables are
> indeed full of trash.

NEVER, NEVER, NEVER assume the system is going to put something
there unless you explicitly request it.  It stops a lot of bugs dead
in their tracks.  You might get away with it if you don't, but how
will you be sure?