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Console Command-line Compiler

The console command-line compiler is designed for advanced users who want to use Paquet Builder in automated workflows, such as process automation, distribution cycles, or cron tasks. This tool is a Windows console application with no graphical user interface (GUI).

Unlike the Paquet Builder GUI, the console compiler does not require a user logon, making it ideal for environments where interaction with the Windows desktop is unavailable. It is also portable, meaning it can be used simply by placing it in the same directory as PBuilder.exe.

Benefits of the Console Compiler

While the Paquet Builder GUI supports command-line options and switches, the console compiler is better suited for headless environments, allowing tasks to be performed without requiring a logged-in user.

How to Obtain the Console Command-line Compiler

The console compiler is only available to registered users of the Paquet Builder Commercial edition.

You can download it from "My Account - Compiler".

Setting Up the Console Command-line Compiler

  1. Install Paquet Builder (GUI) on the target computer.
  2. Download the console compiler's self-installing archive from "My Account - Compiler" and run it.
  3. Copy your Paquet Builder license file into the same directory as the console compiler executable (PBCMDCOMPILER.EXE) to activate it.
  4. The console compiler is now ready to use.

For detailed setup instructions, visit "My Account - Compiler".

Using the Console Command-line Compiler

Syntax

PBCMDCOMPILER [project filepath] [other parameters]

Parameters

The console compiler supports the same command-line parameters and switches as the Paquet Builder GUI, except /c, /s, and /q, which are unnecessary for the console compiler.

Exit Codes

The exit codes are identical to those used by the Paquet Builder GUI.

Examples

Compile a package: 

PBCMDCOMPILER "c:\mywork\myproject\file.pbpx"

Change the output directory, compile the project, and save the log to an RTF file: 

PBCMDCOMPILER "C:\My Documents\pbtests\testdirect1.pbpx" /log:"C:\my documents\pblog.rtf" /outfolder:"C:\my documents\pbtests\output"

Additional Notes

The console compiler also supports directive files, allowing even more flexibility for automation.