14 character limitation in filenames

[Annette Myjak]

can anyone explain why there's the 14 character limitation in filenames
(11 + 3 for extension) in interactive unix?

is this common for all 386 based unices?

is this limitation likely to be overcome anytime soon?

enquiring minds want to know!  (this limitation is making it difficult
to port a fairly extensive software system.)

thanks!

annette myjak
arm at sps.com