How can I run different workspaces with different sets of plugins?

Question

When using different workspaces for different SDKs, for example. Appengine, Android, and basic Java development, how can I make sure that only the necessary plugins are loaded when the required workspace is started?

Answer 1

The trick is to specify a different configuration folder. Use the -configuration argument when starting Eclipse.

By default, you get something like this:

 eclipse/ plugins/ features/ configuration/ 

By specifying a separate configuration folder, all these 4 folders will be moved to a new location. I usually use a folder called configs and add a few numbered folders to it. So, I get something like:

 eclipse/ plugins/ features/ configs/ c1/ plugins/ features/ configuration/ c2/ plugins/ features/ configuration/ 

To do this, use the -configuration configs/c1/configuration argument. When you start this instance and install the plugins, they will be installed in the appropriate place.

You can also add the -data argument and specify the location of the workspace folder or select it when starting Eclipse.

Answer 2

I don’t think plugins are a function of your workspace. You may have to have separate Eclipse installations. Or is there a way to make a “general” installation, in which the binary is in one place and the plugins are in another. This should mean that there is a launch option to indicate where to find the plugins. Perhaps you could use this?