Why Should I use a "better" IDE
Blitz3D Forums/Blitz3D Beginners Area/Why Should I use a "better" IDE
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| Why should i use a "better" IDE such a Protean. How would it benifit me from using the traditional Blitz3D IDE? |
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| Well, to single out Protean - it sorts the function list alphabetically. This alone is a good enough reason to switch. |
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| There is function folding, makes the code alot more readible, multiple undos, different syntax highlighting options, projects, typing helpers...The list keeps going. Protean supports all of the above, as does most every ide out there for blitz (except the native one). |
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| To quote your sig: "To be the best you have to go beyond." |
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| Because it has type member code completion |
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| Because it has type member code completion Last time I tried that in Protean it didn't work at all. |
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| Whilst Protean is very well regarded by many, be aware there are a number of other IDEs also well regarded. Essentially, you use a 'better' IDE because it has features that make your coding easier, more effective and more enjoyable. Whichever IDE you find that does that, use it. |
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| ....don't use one of you don't want too...we don't care |
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| You need a "better" IDE for one simple reason: more than 1 level of undo. |
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I think one of Protean's best features is the "Region" trick, allowing you to "collapse" your code, regardless or start and end point, without interfering with the code itself. So for instance, this:While Not KeyDown(1) ...;this represents any code you might type ... ;#Region This is collapsed ... ... Wend ... ;#End Region ...Would collapse down to this: While Not KeyDown(1) ... ... ;This is collapsed ...You really have to put it into practice to fully appreciate its value. But the fact that Protean is free, and works with three versions of Blitz (B3D, B2D, and B+) is also reason enough for a download. I mean, if you're still happy with the standard Blitz IDE, then go ahead and stick with it. I'd still reccommend, though, that you at least give Protean (and indeed, any other IDE that catches your eye) a test run before deciding; you might be pleasantly surprised! |
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| The Protean IDE link in your sig doesnt work, Adam. I get a 404 :( |
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| Actually it's worse than that, Malice... the Protean site seems to be down, since I get the same error when accessing it from the Blitz toolbox! If you want Protean, though, just tell me & I'll send you the installer; being a careful computer user, I keep all useful APP installers in an easy-to-remember folder. |
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| Please do, Adam! This thread has actually converted me! I have always got on fine with the standard IDE but some of the functions mentioned could really make things easier for me! email address is: teutanis_support<AT>ntlworld DOTCOM Many Thanks! |
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| Protean is on the way, Malice - hope it helps. (BTW, it's ADAM, not Adam... ^_^) |
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| Many thanks, ADAM :D |
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| Also, Protean has mouse gestures!I have got it so it only requires an upward flick to compile, a down one to undo... And it has project mangement,integreated web browser... |
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| Use IDEal |
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| Whats IDEal? ¦-<? |
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| http://www.blitzbasic.com/Community/posts.php?topic=66160 IDEal is a really, REALLY great new IDE for Blitz. It has a lot of similar features to Protean but also tons of neat new ideas besides. It will make your coding in Blitz 100% more productive, well it has with mine. Check it out. I cannot recommend it highly enough. Jason. |
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| Hey, Boiled Sweets! How's this for a new username, inspired (perspired) by your username: Boiled Sweat. Mmmmm, delicious! Drink up, lads! |
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| Well Protean never arrived... not even into my junkmail :( It's possible that the postmaster may have not liked it if it was a particularly large attachment (I dont know what the limit size is) |
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