How do I debug an install?

[JohnO]

I've searched for something that tells me how to run a debug, and failed miserably.
I have added statements to the 'Perform Uninstallation' region to delete folders (recursively) created by the product, and to move a folder that was created by the install (= rename, I hope) in order to preserve it.

I have set variable NATIVE_ENGINE to TRUE in Setup User Interview.
But, the folders are not removed, and one that is installed by the product, is not moved/renamed.

So, I thought, time to investigate debug. But, how do I get it to run? I'm not sure if debug mode, simulates an install, or whether the built installer links back to the source code when running, or something else.

I have set the dropdown on the Project tab to 'Debug' and set a couple of break points.

But, 'so what?'. I'm sure the debug process is documented somewhere, but where?

Regards, John

[FrancescoT]

Dear John,

it is not clear to me which is exactly the problem you have with the integrated debugger.

Are you using the debugger with Uncompressed build?.
Are you sure the Debug Build check-box is checked (Build settings view in IA IDE)?

Also note, you need to explicitly elevate to Admin the IA IDE to debug your project at effective install time.

If you search for "Debug" or "Debugging" within the IA documentation, I am sure you will find enough information.

Regards

[JohnO]

Dear Francesco
Thanks for the info. A search for 'debug' found some references, including one that described the task of debugging. I was part-way there. I now understand that debugging is initiated from within the IDE, rather than the executable (built for debugging) linking back to the IDE.

One question on debugging - how do you debug an uninstall and an update?

Regards, John

[FrancescoT]

Dear John,

install the package and then once installed, run the debugger within the IDE.

Regards