Installing C++ IDE - Lecture Summary

Introduction

• Lecture focuses on installing a C++ Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to begin writing C++ programs.

Lecture Overview

1. Tools Needed for Writing and Executing C++ Programs
2. How to Install the Required Tools
3. Installing Code Blocks IDE on Windows
4. Installing Code Blocks IDE on Mac

Tools Needed

1. Code Editor

• Examples: Sublime Text, VS Code, Atom
• Essential features include:
  • Syntax highlighting
  • Auto-indentation
  • Line numbering

2. Compiler

• Translates source code into machine code.
• Necessary for machine interpretation of human-written code.

3. Debugger

• Used for finding and fixing errors.
• Offers error listing with line numbers for easier debugging.

4. Command Prompt

• Used for displaying output.
• Pre-installed on systems (Windows uses Command Prompt; Mac uses Terminal).

Installing Tools

• An IDE integrates all necessary tools into a single package for software development.
• Recommended IDEs:
  1. Visual Studio - Not recommended for this course (Windows-only).
  2. VS Code - Lightweight, requires extensive configuration.
  3. Code Blocks - Recommended, lightweight, open-source, easy configuration for C++.

Installing Code Blocks on Windows

1. Download the Setup File:

   • Use a browser to search for "codeblocks".
   • Go to codeblocks.org and navigate to the downloads section.
   • Download the Windows 64-bit setup file (e.g., codeblocks-20.03-mingw-setup.exe).

2. Installation Steps:

   • Run the downloaded setup file.
   • Follow the installation wizard prompts: agree to license, keep default settings.
   • Choose installation folder (default is recommended).
   • Complete installation.

3. Launch Code Blocks:

   • Confirm successful installation by launching Code Blocks.

Installing Code Blocks on Mac

1. Install Xcode Developer Tools:

   • Open Terminal, type: xcode-select --install.

2. Download Code Blocks:

   • Visit the codeblocks official website using a browser.
   • Click "Downloads" > "Download the binary release".
   • Scroll to the "Mac Installation" section and download the DMG file.

3. Install Code Blocks:

   • Open the DMG file and drag the Code Blocks app to the Applications folder.
   • If a security warning appears, go to System Settings > Security & Privacy > Allow Code Blocks to open.

Conclusion

• The lecture covered essential tools, installation steps, and specific guidance for setting up Code Blocks IDE on both Windows and Mac to begin C++ programming.

Closing

• Thank you for watching the presentation. See you in the next lecture!