How to compile and run C files from within Notepad++ using NppExec plugin?

Question

How can I configure the NppExec plugin for Notepad++?

I would like NppExec to compile my C files, run them, and show their output, all within Notepad++.

Answer 1

You can actually compile and run C code even without the use of nppexec plugins. If you use MingW32 C compiler, use g++ for C++ language and gcc for C language.

Paste this code into the notepad++ run section

cmd /k cd $(CURRENT_DIRECTORY) && gcc $(FILE_NAME) -o $(NAME_PART).exe  && $(NAME_PART).exe && pause

It will compile your C code into exe and run it immediately. It's like a build and run feature in CodeBlock. All these are done with some cmd knowledge.

Explanation:

1. cmd /k is used for testing.
   • Full explanation @ http://ss64.com/nt/cmd.html
2. cd $(CURRENT_DIRECTORY)
   • change directory to where file is located
3. && operators
   • to chain your commands in a single line
4. gcc $(FILE_NAME)
   • use GCC to compile File with its file extension.
5. -o $(NAME_PART).exe
   • this flag allow you to choose your output filename. $(NAME_PART) does not include file extension.
6. $(NAME_PART).exe
   • this alone runs your program
7. pause
   • this command is used to keep your console open after file has been executed.

For more info on notepad++ commands, go to

http://docs.notepad-plus-plus.org/index.php/External_Programs