Create a collection and methods
In this chapter, we’ll show you how to create a user code collection, fill it with methods, and make it accessible to other users. This way, team members without coding skills can profit from user code methods.
A user code collection is defined as a collection of user code methods that belong together logically. All user code collections together make up the user code library.
Create a new collection
To create a new collection:
Click File > New > File…
Click User code collection and enter a name.
Click Create.
Click the Add user code collection symbol in the Ranorex Studio toolbar, confirm the save location, and enter a name.
Right-click in the projects view and click Add > New item…
Structure of a user code collection
An new user code collection will have the following code structure:
Definition of the namespace
Class definition of the user code collection. This is where you define the user code methods.
User code collection file
The user code collection also appears in the projects view as a file. You can add multiple user code collections per solution and organize their files in folders.
The user code collection file in the projects view
Add user code methods
User code collections only become useful once you add user code methods to them. Others can then access these methods in the project the user code collection is part of.
To add a user code method:
In the class definition of the user code collection, right-click where you want to add the new method.
Click Insert new user code method…
Name the method and click OK.
The code construct for the method is inserted.
Note
Program a user code method
Ranorex Studio only inserts a code snippet. You then have to add your custom code along with a good description of what the method does.
Here’s an example of a finished user code method:
Reference
Addressing repository items in code modules is explained in
Ranorex Studio expert > Code modules > ⇢ Access the repository.
This short description is displayed when selecting the user code method in the library. It makes it easier for users to find out what the method does. This is why you should always make sure to add a short, but meaningful description.
Custom code
In this example, the first name “John” is entered into a text field that is represented by the repository item FirstName.