Forum: The Computer Express

Weirdness with backspace on python and bash

From Daniel@3:633/10 to All on Wed Oct 15 06:30:00 2025

I have a few tools on my bbs written in bash or python which
prompts the user to type into a field. The normal characters output
properly, but if I use backspace, I end up getting some sort of ascii
output of the key values. Or something. Below is the screen output for each
key I press. I don't care if arrows work or not. But I'd like backspace
to work as designed instead of spamming my screen.

Key Output
Backspace ^H
Right arrow ^[[C
Left Arrow ^[[D

So I can't even erase what I have in the field and need to start
over every time.

I've tried to explicitly define those keys as what they are in
code but, my skills need improvement because none of it worked. I tried
using AI in the past but it gave me some bugged crap that took more time
to debug than it would've taken if I just coded it on my own. I'm asking
for insight from yalls fine people. What can I do to fix this? I'm
hoping the solution is simple.

Using syncterm 1.8b updated Oct 6, 2025.

Thanks,

Daniel

--- PyGate Linux v1.0
* Origin: Dragon's Lair, PyGate NNTP<>Fido Gate (3:633/10)