Eclipse

OS X, Python 3.3, LiClipse

Yesterday I tried to get Eclipse and PyDev installed on my MacBook Pro (running Mavericks). After a couple of hours of struggling I gave up and discovered LiClipse which is a highly recommended system for working with Python and many other languages from the Eclipse framework.

I used a clean OS X Mavericks virtual machine to get my installation nailed down, especially important since I wanted to work with Python 3.x.

Downloads

Download and install:

  1. Python 3.x.
  2. Java 7.
  3. LiClipse: click the Google Drive link, select the latest version (currently 0.9.6), click and download the OS X file (currently liclipse_0.9.6_macosx.cocoa.x86_64.dmg), then install using all default options.

Configuration

Eject all download package (DMG) folders on the desktop.

Use Finder and go to Applications, open the liclipse folder, then drag the LiClipse app to the dock.

Run LiClipse. If a software update prompt appears for Java SE 6 then install it.

Accept all defaults when starting for the first time and restart the app.
 
Select File / New project, then select PyDev/PyDev Project:
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Hit Next, then set a project name and click the link to configure an interpreter:

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Select the advanced configuration option:

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Then select python3.3:

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On the next screen make sure all folders are selected:

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Back on the new project screen make any other changes – I opted not to configure the Python path – then click Finish:

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The Open Associated Perspective prompt may appear – I chose to associate the project with the PyDev perspective:

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These Python and perspective settings will be used the next time LiClipse is started for Python projects.

Quick Python test

Following on from the above new I added a new Python file, entered a couple of lines of code, and ran it:

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Debugging

If the debugger is used, for example by stepping through the code, there’ll be an option to switch to another perspective – this should be used for debugging:

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This presents more window areas for examining variables, viewing the editor and console output, etc:

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After the debugging session is complete the Debug perspective will still be active. To switch back to the original perspective use the menus:
  • Window | Open Perspective | Other, then select PyDev.