SYNOPSIS
uuencode [file] remote
DESCRIPTION
uuencode translates a binary file into a special code that consists entirely of printable characters. A file encoded in this way is generally safe for transmission over networks and phone lines. uuencode is often used to send binary files through electronic mail.
If a file is specified on the uuencode command line, uuencode reads that file as input; otherwise, it reads the standard input. uuencode always writes the encoded result to the standard output.
The remote command line argument specifies the name that the file is given after it is decoded with uudecode. The first line of the encoded file records the file's permissions and the remote argument.
The encoded version of the data is about 35% larger than the original. If the size is a problem, you can shrink the file with mkszip before encoding it. The recipient must decode it and then uncompress it.
Since the encoded file consists entirely of printable characters, you may use a text editor like Vi to edit the file. Of course, the only things you are likely to edit are the permissions or the name of the remote file.
EXAMPLE
This command line encodes the file long_name.tar.Z so it decodes with the name arc.trz and redirects the output to arc.uue:
uuencode long_name.tar.Z arc.trz > arc.uue
DIAGNOSTICS
Possible exit status values are:
- 0
-
Successful completion.
- 1
-
Failure because of an invalid command line option, or a missing command line argument.
PORTABILITY
POSIX.2. x/OPEN Portability Guide 4.0. Windows 10. Windows Server 2016. Windows Server 2019. Windows 11. Windows Server 2022. Windows Server 2025. Generally found on most UNIX systems.
AVAILABILITY
PTC MKS Toolkit for Power Users
PTC MKS Toolkit for System Administrators
PTC MKS Toolkit for Developers
PTC MKS Toolkit for Interoperability
PTC MKS Toolkit for Professional Developers
PTC MKS Toolkit for Professional Developers 64-Bit Edition
PTC MKS Toolkit for Enterprise Developers
PTC MKS Toolkit for Enterprise Developers 64-Bit Edition
SEE ALSO
- Commands:
- uudecode
PTC MKS Toolkit 10.5 Documentation Build 40.