Re: [Boost-build] Python port development

Subject: Re: [Boost-build] Python port development
From: Artyom (artyomtnk_at_[hidden])
Date: 2010-07-09 14:59:09

> 
> > This is now  supported through the configure  module.
> > 
> > > - Build time checks like  sizeof  something.
> > >  
> > 
> > This isn't possible now, but can  be  implemented via the
> > same mechanisms that are used to check if a  target  builds.
> 
> 
> I can confirm this. Yesterday I did just that.  And used it for configuration 
>of 
>
> wxWidgets with Boost.Build, for defining  SIZEOF_WCHAR_T macro appropriately 
> (other sizeofs weren't required for  now).
> Very funny coincidence that this talk and my implementation happened at  nearly 
>
> the same, I must say ;-)

How did you do this? Using negative array size trick?

In any way implementing such checks correctly is very tricky and it was done
right in CMake only in 2.8 I think.

How many developers would actually know to do this right? Not so much.
So what I try to say is not what is possible, but what is available to user
via simple line or two and quick glance in documentation.

This is the difference between mature build system and a build system
that becomes extremely painful when the task become less obvious then
building a simple library or executable.

 
> P.S.
> Boost.Locale looks useful, and someday I might  actually need it. At that time, 
>I 
>
> would be happy to find it can be built  with Boost.Build, but if that wouldn't 
>be 
>
> the case, I won't hesitate a  second at implementing Boost.Build support for 
> Boost.Locale to meet my  needs.
> Just  FYI

Thank you,

I think I'll eventually write them on my own, but I'll remember the offer if I 
get in troubles :-)
Meanwhile it still waits in review queue.

And probably when it will be finally reviewed and hopefully get into boost its 
build system will
be more powerful then it is today.

Artyom