MAIL(4) — Unix Programmer’s Manual
NAME
mail − pseudo-device for mail notification
DESCRIPTION
The file /dev/mail is a multiplexor file maintained by the mail notification daemon. When a piece of mail is delivered the mail delivery process writes information on this file and the mail notification daemon /etc/comsat notifies a user of the arrival of the mail if the user desires to be notified.
SEE ALSO
FILES
/dev/mail
BUGS
th Berkeley Distribution