[Python-Dev] Extension to ConfigParser (original) (raw)

Fuzzyman fuzzyman at voidspace.org.uk
Mon Jan 30 11:11:45 CET 2006

Vinay Sajip wrote:

Fuzzyman <fuzzyman voidspace.org.uk> writes:

Hello Vinjay, In the past there has been some discussion about a new module to replace ConfigParser. Most notably at http://wiki.python.org/moin/ConfigParserShootout

[snip] It would be possible to extend to the ConfigObj API to be backwards compatible with ConfigParser. This would bring the added benefits of ConfigObj, without needing to add an extra module to the standard library.

Well nearly. ConfigObj supports config file schema with (optional) type conversion, through a companion module called validate. This could be included or left as an added option. Anyway. If this stands a chance of acceptance, I'll write the PEP (and if accepted, do the work - which is not inconsiderable). Personally, I'd prefer to have the different candidates in the Shootout be evaluated and a "winner" picked (I'm not sure who would do this, or when it would be done). Quite.

I'm suggesting an alternative that bypasses that tortuous and unlikely process. ;-)

I'll readily declare an interest - I've implemented an alternative hierarchical config module (which is in no way backward compatible with ConfigParser), see

http://www.red-dove.com/pythonconfig.html

I realise that there are several alternative modules available . Obviously my personal preference is ConfigObj (I'm not unbiased of course). :-)

Lack of complexity is the major feature I would tout here - I guess other people would have different priorities.

However, this not the only issue. Adding a new module, with a different API and possibly a different syntax for files, is a recipe for (some) confusion. Not to mention the difficulty of achieving a consensus on python-dev. (Again - ;-)

The resolution I'm suggesting means that people can continue to use ConfigParser, with major feature enhancements. Or they can migrate to a slightly different API that is easier to use - without needing to switch between incompatible modules.

I'm currently adding the ConfigParser.get* methods to ConfigObj (user request) and also adding full (straightforward) unicode support for reading and writing. These changes will be available in a beta release in the next few days.

Anyway, debate on the issue is welcomed.

All the best,

Fuzzyman http://www.voidspace.org.uk/python/configobj.html

Regards,

Vinay Sajip

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