Over the years debugging XSLT has gotten better and better but one thing continues to be lacking. XSLT debugging with .NET component references in the XSLT. I know there are some tools that do a decent job but something is always lacking.
Well I decided to write an XSLT debugger that uses Visual Studio. It is fairly easy to use and is very robust. I will put pictures and such up later but for now I just wanted to get the app out. So if you are like me and are looking for a debugger that includes .NET capabilities then here it is. If you have questions feel free to ask.
So here it is... (Drum Roll)
The XSLT Debugger for .NET.
http://cid-f797155a9bd4a824.skydrive.live.com/self.aspx/XSLTDebugger/XSLTDebugger.msi
So I added an example application that is located in the install directory
C:\Program Files\XSLTDebugger\ExampleApplication
Here are the instructions:
1. Start application - XSLTDebugger.exe located C:\Program Files\XSLTDebugger\ by default.
2. Follow instructions on the screen, adding input, xslt, and output files.
3. The Arguments are the most important part. The arguments represent the .NET component itself. So reference your .NET component and then choose the appropriate "type" or method call. Make sure that the assembly you reference is in the GAC and is strong named.
4. The namespace field is what is referenced in the XSLT. An example is: xmlns:inputHelperObj=http://DebuggerExample/inputHelperObj
Enjoy.
5. The Type field and the Namespace field basically coorelate to each other thus providing the reference.
6. Make sure you add the arguments to the list and repeat for each argument you need to add.
7. Once done click debug, you will get the screen that says which environment do you want to open. This is normal and is how you debug in visual studio so if you have Visual Studio 2005 choose the Visual Studio 2005 environment.
8. Any questions just ask. I will try to respond quickly.
posted @ Monday, November 10, 2008 8:27 AM