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Clarion ProPath - Overview and Features
ProPath is a template and class library that automates file-path and data management for Clarion developers, making the handling of INI and data files painless.
It eliminates hard-coded paths, simplifies deployment, and helps you ensure that application data is stored in the correct locations for each user and system to meet Windows standards and guidelines.
What ProPath Does
ProPath automatically determines and manages folder locations for your Clarion program at runtime. It uses standard Windows folder conventions (CSIDL/Special Folder IDs) and supports single or multiple datasets.
When your application starts, ProPath:
- Creates data and settings folders if they do not exist
- Manages INI files and configuration storage automatically
- Handles “first run” and version upgrade scenarios seamlessly
- Provides template-driven setup for common path configurations
- Exposes a class API for developers who need programmatic control
Why You’ll Use ProPath
- No more virtualized files - ProPath helps you ensure your files are in the right locations.
- No more hard-coded paths - ProPath resolves all folder references dynamically.
- Simplified deployment - Your installers no longer need to create folder structures manually.
- Supports multiple datasets - Separate configuration and runtime data cleanly.
- Portable-ready - Works equally well for USB and local installations.
- Template-driven setup - Configure everything in the IDE without coding.
- Class-based control - Access ProPath behavior directly from your code when needed.
Common Use Cases
- Applications needing user-specific data folders (AppData, ProgramData, etc.)
- Systems using separate datasets for configuration vs. runtime data
- Portable Clarion applications that must run from any location
Next Steps
Once you understand what ProPath does, you can set it up in just a few minutes.
To get started:
- Review the Requirements.
- Follow the Installation Instructions.
- Learn how to Register the Template.
- See Using the Template in Your Application.
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