LD file, how to make it?

[vortext]

Last days I've been going over my plugins - again  . This time I've got some know-how of the reader and scpim and I've noticed most lots contain a LD file which lists all the dependencies. Since losing track of dependencies was the reason for reorganising in the first place and I've begun making my own lots, I would like to know how to make such a LD file. Would make life much more easy for sure. Thanks, V.

[cogeo]

It is automatically created by the LE. And it doesn't list ALL dependencies, only prop dependencies (no texture-packs or model-only files).

[vortext]

It is automatically created by the LE.

Really? When I make lots no such thing happens. Maybe it is because I use the pim instead of the official LE? But is there some way to keep track of dependencies besides good old pen & paper?

[Andreas]

Yes, only the Maxis Lot Editor creates those, and as cogeo said, they're not complete, unfortunately, as texture pack dependencies and such are missing completely. The best way (although not perfect in every case) is using the Analyser/Importer in SC4Tool, which will not only check the LD file, but also does a scan for all props and textures that are used. Not checked are other possible dependencies, such as custom query windows or sounds. But usually, those are added manually anyway, so you should know where the files are located, and how the filenames are called.

[bap]

But is there some way to keep track of dependencies besides good old pen & paper?

Yes, you can use SC4Tools (http://kurier.simcityplaza.de/details.php?file=315) for that. One of its option is a dependency tracker (not only for props, but also buildings and textures). It will give you the list of files in your plugins where the building and each of the props and textures used in the selected lot are defined (i.e., it shows you a list of dependencies). It will also list the ID of any missing props or textures.

[vortext]

Have the sc4tools up and running. Very usefull, thanks.