Unable to setup Crontab file

[CoffeeCat]

Following the tutorial for setting up a crontab to run a task:

https://docs.onion.io/omega2-docs/running-a-command-on-a-schedule.html

But each time, receive the following error message after trying to close and save with

:wq

Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance!

[crispyoz]

@CoffeeCat it sounds like there is an issue with your crontabs directory, assuming you have nothing in crontabs you need, you can use this command sequence to resolve the issue:

rm -rf /etc/crontabs
mkdir /etc/crontabs

Then try starting again at crontab -e

BTW instead of :wq command you can use ZZ to save and quit.

[CoffeeCat]

@crispyoz

Thanks, I will give that a try soon.

In the meantime, update the ric.local file at

/etc/rc.local

Using this page as a reference:

https://docs.onion.io/omega2-docs/running-a-command-on-boot.html

It runs the program, but think getting the Crontab to work is “best practice” than keeping the Omega2 in an indefinite boot cycle (flashing light).

[CoffeeCat]

@crispyoz

Completed the steps you recommend and working through this issue, and keep encountering this message when trying to enter the first line:

Trying to enter the following:

#
* * * * * python3 plantTracker.py
#

I have no clue as to what is causing it.

Thanks again!

[crispyoz]

@CoffeeCat you need to press the letter i to get vi into insert mode.

crontab -e uses the vi editor. Vi has 2 modes, command mode and insert mode. If you are in insert mode you can type # and it will be inserted. If you are not in insert mode, you are in command mode, in which case # is interpreted as a command that does not exist.

So press i to put yourself into insert mode, then you can type the # etc

[CoffeeCat]

@crispyoz

Thanks for the assistance, it works now!