datescan

datescan is a command-line utility designed to parse and display date and time information from various input sources. It is particularly useful for processing log files, network streams, or any text-based data that contains timestamps. The tool aims to provide a flexible and efficient way to extract, normalize, and output date and time values in a consistent format.

The primary function of datescan is to identify and interpret different date and time formats. It supports a wide range of common patterns, including those with different separators, time zones, and ordering of year, month, and day. Users can often specify the expected format or allow datescan to attempt automatic detection. This capability makes it valuable for handling data from disparate sources that may not adhere to a single standard.

Beyond simple parsing, datescan can also perform operations on the extracted dates and times. This might include converting between time zones, calculating time differences, or reformatting the output to a user-defined standard. Its command-line interface allows for integration into shell scripts and automated workflows, making it a powerful tool for data processing and analysis tasks. The specific features and options available can vary depending on the implementation of datescan, as it is often found as part of larger software suites or as a standalone utility with different versions.