Source Explorer

Source Explorer is a truly handy Vim plugin that serves as a source code explorer. It functions similarly to the context window you might be familiar with from Source Insight. This plugin provides a concise overview of function and type definitions within your code.

How Does It Work?

This plugin, known as srcexpl.vim, allows you to navigate your source code just like the context window in Source Insight. If you have experience using Source Insight to navigate through C, C++, or Java projects, you'll feel right at home with Source Explorer.

Easy Navigation

Here's how it works: when in Normal mode and you place your cursor on a function name, the definition quickly appears in the Source Explorer window. By double-clicking on that window within (G)Vim, you instantly see the definition and its context in your editor! This functionality supports multi-definition listings and seamless jumping between them, similar to Source Insight.

Keyboard Shortcuts

If you're using srcexpl version 1.2 or newer, you have the option to map function keys for enhanced navigation. This feature enables you to explore your source code using both mouse and keyboard inputs, whether in GUI or cterm VIM environments.

Compatibility with Other Tools

Great news! Source Explorer integrates seamlessly with Taglist and MiniBufExpl, enhancing the (G)Vim experience to mimic Source Insight across Unix, Windows, and Mac systems.

A Bit About Vim

Vim, a powerful text editor first released by Bram Moolenaar in 1991 for Amiga computers, is an upgraded version of the vi editor. It offers various features designed to streamline the editing of program source code efficiently.

Your Guide to Getting Started

If you're new to Vim, fret not! While learning Vim may initially feel slow, once you grasp the basics, progress will come swiftly. Take advantage of the built-in tutorial for beginners and the detailed Users' Manual available within Vim or online.

Installation Requirements

Requirements:

• Vim


• Add srcexpl.vim script to your Vim plugin directory (e.g., ~/.vim/plugin/).


• Edit your .vimrc file to customize settings.




• let g:SrcExpl_refreshTime = 300


• let g:SrcExpl_winHeight = 9


• let g:SrcExpl_updateTags = 1


• Nmap :SrcExplToggle

What's New?

This latest release brings some exciting updates:

• A new prompt line displaying tag names and their counts during multiple definition searches.


• F ix for a bug related to folding in VIM.


• Additional insights from the developer on how Source Explorer collaborates with Taglist and MiniBufExplorer.