Broken arrow

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The Jargon File Parts of this article are based on the Jargon File, v. 4.4.7, a public domain document of hacker jargon.

broken arrow

Usage: n. Etymology: IBM Derivation: IBM

broken arrow: n.

[IBM] The error code displayed on line 25 of a 3270 terminal (or a PC emulating a 3270) for various kinds of protocol violations and "unexpected" error conditions (including connection to a down computer). On a PC, simulated with `->/_', with the two center characters overstruck.

Note: to appreciate this term fully, it helps to know that "broken arrow" is also military jargon for an accident involving nuclear weapons....

Sources

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