The asdf module enhances the standard asdf version manager by providing simplified x-cmd style commands for installing and switching environment runtimes.
When to Activate
- When the user wants to install a new programming language environment (e.g., Node.js, Elixir).
- When switching between different versions of a tool globally or per project.
- When managing asdf plugins or updating the asdf core.
Core Principles & Rules
- Enhanced Flow: Use
useto automatically add a plugin, install the latest version, and set it as global. - Environment State: Use
--activateand--deactivateto control if asdf managed binaries are in the current shell's PATH. - Zero-Setup: Automatically handles asdf installation if it's missing.
Patterns & Examples
Install and Use
# Install the latest Node.js and set it as global
x asdf use nodejs
Managed Uninstallation
# Uninstall a runtime and remove its corresponding asdf plugin
x asdf unuse nodejs
Search Plugins
# Interactively search for available software/plugins to install
x asdf
Checklist
- Confirm the target runtime (e.g., nodejs, python).
- Verify if the version should be global or specific to a directory.
- Ensure Git is available as it's required for most asdf plugins.