[Boost-build] Jamfile Jamroot project-root.jam Jamrules .... oh my

From: Roland Schwarz (roland.schwarz_at_[hidden])
Date: 2007-07-21 07:48:24

I am trying to figure out the purpose of the files

Jamfile Jamroot project-root.jam Jamrules.

Jamfile, project-root.jam and Jamrules are present in the boost build tree.

The (Draft) Boost.Build manual speaks about Jamroot (but also mentions 
project-root.jam without having it introduced before. At least I didn't 
find where.)

Jamrules is mentioned nowhere. (I guess it is legacy jam.) But it is 
used to define the boost version.

I guess some combinations of the files are for compatibility reasons.

I also discovered that it is possible to have both: Jamroot and Jamfile 
present in the same directory: Is this an error? Does this have a well 
defined semantics? In my (simple test) case both projects where built.

What I am basically searching for is:

For a new project, which Files should I use for what purpose?
Which files are deprecated for use on new projects?

I also want to have a file for project specific configuration. Say 
project-config.jam. Shall I use Jamrules (like the boost project 
seemingly does) or shall I import a project-config.jam from my Jamroot file?

Thank you for help and clarification,
Roland