Question

How do I extend the functionality of FME?

Answer

The FME Plug-In SDK is included with the FME download available at http://www.safe.com/downloads. Please be sure to select the SDK option during installation. The SDK contains a comprehensive set of resources for developers including a C++ plug-in based on TFS (Text Feature Store) - an illustrative format, fully supported by FME. The TFS sample plug-ins are distributed both as source code and in compiled form so that they can be used for testing right out of the box. These samples demonstrate how to handle rich geometry models, variable attribute schemas, settings dialog input, and coordinate system handling.  The SDK also includes complete documentation and test cases.

Once FME is installed, everything you will need for creating the new FME writer plug-in can be found in "pluginbuilder" folder of the FME installation. I would recommend starting the process by completing the design worksheet <\FME\pluginbuilder\samples\doc\Worksheets.pdf> as it will help guide your implementation in the right direction later on.

The sample format plug-ins are found in <\FME\pluginbuilder\samples\cpp \code\FMEReaderWriter>. The TFS sample will serve as a good comprehensive reference but the simplest way to start a new plug-in development is to instantiate the MyFormat sample using the rename_format.py script found in <C:\apps\FME\pluginbuilder\samples\cpp\code\FMEReaderWriter\myformat>. This script will stamp out skeleton for a new format that you can then use to start plugging in your own code.