Re: [boost] Re: uncounted_ptr

From: Greg Colvin (greg_at_[hidden])
Date: 2001-01-10 10:39:11

From: William Kempf <sirwillard_at_[hidden]>
> --- In boost_at_[hidden], "Larry Evans" <jcampbell3_at_p...> wrote:
> > The testdriver code and output from solutions to both the circular
> > reference-counted pointer problem and to dangling references can be
> > found from the home following page:
> > 
> >   http://sites.netscape.net/cppljevansusa/homepage

I find only some main.cpp test programs, not the actual implementation?

You might take a look at the existing boost work I mention below and
tell us how your approach compares.
 
> > I've noticed there's some work being done in boost in this
> > area (http://www.egroups.com/files/boost/circ_ptr.zip).  I
> > think I could contribute here, and I'm finishing up html file
> > describing the solution.  Email me if your interested in
> > getting a copy when I'm done, or maybe I should just submit it
> > for review by boost?
> 
> Again, from long experience with this problem in C++ I've grown the 
> habit of just avoiding this problem by not using smart pointers in 
> the cases where I've had circular references.  I realize that this 
> isn't always possible and that others will have different experiences 
> here.
> 
> That said, I would be very interested in a smart pointer that 
> performed similarly to a full blown GC.  In fact, I'd prefer this 
> over a real GC.  It would give me complete control when I needed it, 
> including the use of RAII harnesses, while making it much simpler to 
> program some constructs in which memory management is the hardest 
> issue to deal with.  So my personal vote would be for such a 
> submission.  I don't know if the circ_ptr in the vault qualifies, if 
> what you have in mind should be considered instead, or if both have 
> pros and cons and should both be considered/accepted.

The cyclic_ptr at www.boost.org/libs/smart_ptr/smarttest.zip
as described at www.boost.org/libs/smart_ptr/smarttests.htm
might fit your bill.  It includes a weak_ptr as well.  You
might also like www.egroups.com/files/boost/GarbageCollector/

And what is an RAII harness?