Eclipse is a popular open-source integrated development environment (IDE) that is widely used by software developers around the world. It offers a wide range of features and supports multiple programming languages, making it a go-to choice for many developers. However, if you are a C++ programmer, you may have noticed that the default version of Eclipse, known as Eclipse Classic, does not come with support for C++ out of the box. But don't worry, with a few simple steps, you can easily add Eclipse C++ to your existing Eclipse Classic installation.
First, let's understand why Eclipse Classic does not come with C++ support. Eclipse Classic is primarily designed for Java development and comes with the Java Development Tools (JDT) plugin. However, to add support for other programming languages, including C++, you need to install additional plugins. In this case, we will be installing the Eclipse CDT (C/C++ Development Tools) plugin.
To begin, launch Eclipse Classic and go to the Help menu. From the drop-down menu, select "Install New Software." This will open a new window where you can manage your Eclipse plugins. In the "Work with" field, enter the following URL: "https://download.eclipse.org/tools/cdt/releases/9.11". This is the official repository for the Eclipse CDT plugin.
Once the repository is loaded, you will see a list of available plugins. In this list, select the "C/C++ Development Tools" option and click on the "Next" button. This will start the installation process. You will be asked to review the plugin's license agreement, and once you agree, the installation will begin.
After the installation is complete, you will be prompted to restart Eclipse. Once you do that, you will notice a new option for C++ in the "File" menu. This indicates that the CDT plugin has been successfully installed. You can now create new C++ projects, import existing ones, and use all the features that come with the CDT plugin.
But what if you already have a project in Eclipse and want to add C++ support to it? In that case, go to the project's properties, and under the "C/C++ Build" tab, select the option to "Enable project-specific settings." This will allow you to specify the C++ compiler and other project-specific settings.
Adding Eclipse C++ to Eclipse Classic not only allows you to work on C++ projects but also enables you to use some of the advanced features offered by the CDT plugin. These include code completion, syntax highlighting, and debugging capabilities. It also integrates with popular C++ libraries such as Boost and provides support for popular build systems like Make and CMake.
In conclusion, if you are a C++ programmer and want to use Eclipse Classic as your IDE, adding the CDT plugin is a must. It is a straightforward process and opens up a whole new world of possibilities for developers working with C++. So, don't wait any longer, follow the steps mentioned above, and start using Eclipse Classic for all your C++ development needs. Happy coding!
