SandCastle Builder

[Update #3] - 11 August 0900

Version 1.2 

Apparently (can’t isolate the issue exactly) it works for some people and not for others.

- Logs the commands it executes (so you can see if there are any issues with paths, etc)

- Cleaned up some of the UI elements

[UPDATE # 2] – 9 Aug

Version 1.1

Well, as one is wont to accidentally do, I packaged the debug build rather than the release …. hence the snafu.

I believe SandCastle Builder is working now.

[UPDATE # 1] – 9 Aug

Version 1.1

- Fixed issue of incorrect extension when chosing your own CHM

- Added feature to allow specification of custom footer

[Oringinal]

Yep. Another one.

Joining the bandwagon of individuals keen to build a GUI for Sandcastle is yours truly.

Here are screen shots of Builder

Builder

Builder In Action

Builder At Rest

What makes mine different?

• It is “Project” based so you don’t have to keep specifying the assembly, xml file, etc
• Does not assume SandCastle or the Help Compiler is installed to the default location. It does however assume they are installed somewhere!
• Reasonably polished UI – don’t you think?
• All in C# – no batch files (except for a workaround to piping output from one process to another)
• Does all its work in the temp folder and cleans up after itself
• Allows you to immediately view the CHM

Do I have any other plans?

Yep

• Fix the inevitable bugs that MUST be hiding somewhere
• Capture output from SandCastle’s various executables and log to file
• Convert builder to a Visual Studio Addin
• Allow builder to directly build projects & solutions
• Allow builder to run from console so it can be used by built tools like nant and msbuild

Have a go and let me know what you think by leaving a comment. What i’m keen to know is if it runs at all

Download SandCastle Builder Here

Download the Manual Here