measure_max_load_averages.rb

#!/usr/bin/env ruby

def measure
  `uptime`.split(' ')[-3].chop.to_f
end

max = -1
maxes = []

loop do
  current_load = measure
  if max < current_load
    max = current_load
    maxes << max
    maxes = maxes.sort.last(5).reverse
  end

  begin
    sleep 1
  rescue Interrupt
    puts 'Quitting'
    puts maxes
    exit 0
  end
end