Difference between revisions of "FAQ How do I update Eclipse?"

Revision as of 06:04, 18 October 2008

Eclipse 3.4 and beyond

To add new features to Eclipse, run the p2 software updates system, using

1. Help > Software Updates...
2. Select existing items or use 'Add Site...' to add new features...

Eclipse 3.3 and below

To add new features to Eclipse, run the Update Manager, using

1. Help > Software Updates > Find and Install...
2. Search for new features to install

As of Eclipse 3.3, you will be presented with at least two default choices

The Eclipse Project Updates
Europa Discovery Site

You can add other sites, for projects not included in Europa. Make sure you have the site you've added checked as well as adding sites for its dependencies (eg., EMF or WTP). Note that in many cases simply checking the box for the Europa Discovery Site will get you all your dependencies.

The Update Manager will visit the Update site(s) and offer features you can install. If you select a feature that has dependencies, click the 'Select Required' button to resolve those dependencies. If it doesn't work, try expanding the twisty for all the sites you searched. If you are still broken, you'll have to cancel the wizard and start over, adding more dependency site(s).

When should I upgrade?

Many projects are closely aligned (like those in the Eclipse 3.2 / Callisto or Eclipse 3.3 / Europa release trains), so chances are you'll have to upgrade the whole stack in order to ensure compatibility. This is especially true DURING a release cycle (ie., before a final x.y.0 build is released), if you're someone who enjoys staying current through the Milestones and Stable builds (every 6 weeks or less) or Integration builds (weekly). If you are only interested in Release builds, then you should only have to upgrade 3 times a year (eg., Europa, Europa Fall Maintenance, Europa Winter Maintenance).

So, really, it's up to you.

See Also:

• FAQ_How_do_I_upgrade_Eclipse?
• FAQ_What_is_the_Update_Manager?