A software package that provides external libraries for convenient use and display.
Alien is a unique Perl module that makes accessing external libraries easier than ever before. It essentially serves as a wrapper for these external libraries, making it easier for users to access them. This module doesn't have any code per se, as it is simply a package designed to usher idea of Alien:: packages. With a boring and tedious task at hand when it comes to building C libraries required by Perl modules, Alien offers better options. CPAN modules install with ease, but 3rd-party items are difficult. Alien, however, packages it all up in a way that is easy for everyone to access.
The core feature of Alien is to make sure a specific library is installed by creating an Alien module. This way, users can incorporate their voodoo into the Build.PL file, and the module will automatically deal with anything that needs to be installed. Additionally, Alien makes it easy to use a library by providing the user with all the relevant information they need to leverage the library. The individual stand-alone Alien modules offer class methods, which can be used to access information about the library.
The reason why Alien's documentation may seem a bit loosely worded at times is that the developers left it up to chance to see what common functionality may be needed. Instead of a top-down design approach, they wanted to see what Alien packages need before they factor it out into individual modules. When it comes to the responsibilities of an Alien module, it should ensure that the required package is installed on installation. It should also make sure that the required package is there on usage or throw an error. To make it easier, an Alien module should bundle the source with the module or download it. Furthermore, module authors should be able to access information gathered by Alien. Alien should document itself well and use Module::Build if possible. Lastly, an Alien module must be sane, meaning it should work without any unnecessary glitches.
Overall, Alien is an incredibly efficient Perl module that offers a unique way to access external libraries. It simplifies the process of building C libraries required by Perl modules and makes sure that everything runs smoothly. Its functionality is vast and unique, making it an absolute must-have for Perl developers.
The core feature of Alien is to make sure a specific library is installed by creating an Alien module. This way, users can incorporate their voodoo into the Build.PL file, and the module will automatically deal with anything that needs to be installed. Additionally, Alien makes it easy to use a library by providing the user with all the relevant information they need to leverage the library. The individual stand-alone Alien modules offer class methods, which can be used to access information about the library.
The reason why Alien's documentation may seem a bit loosely worded at times is that the developers left it up to chance to see what common functionality may be needed. Instead of a top-down design approach, they wanted to see what Alien packages need before they factor it out into individual modules. When it comes to the responsibilities of an Alien module, it should ensure that the required package is installed on installation. It should also make sure that the required package is there on usage or throw an error. To make it easier, an Alien module should bundle the source with the module or download it. Furthermore, module authors should be able to access information gathered by Alien. Alien should document itself well and use Module::Build if possible. Lastly, an Alien module must be sane, meaning it should work without any unnecessary glitches.
Overall, Alien is an incredibly efficient Perl module that offers a unique way to access external libraries. It simplifies the process of building C libraries required by Perl modules and makes sure that everything runs smoothly. Its functionality is vast and unique, making it an absolute must-have for Perl developers.
What's New
Version 0.91: N/A