Here's an optional thing you could add. It's not XBMC-related, however, I find it incredibly useful and put it on all my Linux or FreeBSD boxes. This isn't my invention - credit goes to a former work colleague.
1) Append these 2 lines to /etc/inputrc
Code:
"\e[A": history-search-backward
"\e[B": history-search-forward
2) Add these 4 lines to ~/.bashrc
NOTE: might be easier to create new file and overwrite via scripting since commands need to be added near top of file.
Code:
export HC=ignoredups
export HISTCONTROL=ignoredups
export PROMPT_COMMAND='history -a'
shopt -s histappend
What does it do?
For all your bash / CLI work it allows for a more convenient command HISTORY search. It differs from other CLI history options I've seen - easier to use IMHO. Just keeping hit UP - or DOWN if gone past - after a partial command entered until you find one you want.
IE.
Type in 'sudo apt-get' in the terminal and hit 'UP arrow'. It'll then cycle through all bash commands HISTORY starting with 'sudo apt-get' Of course it works with any previously used command like 'ssh' to cycle through hosts you commonly connect to. I use it everyday and can't do without it for any amount of CLI work.
NOTE: see if any of these commands are already in default XBMC version of the files and remove if redundant. Also, test out first to see if you like it.
Terminal commands are added to .bash_history as entered. You won't see it take affect until you make the file changes and then close and then reopen a terminal.