JCB’s Test-Friendly Compiler Mode allows developers to compile components in a non-destructive, isolated way. Instead of building the full ZIP and triggering a live Joomla install or overwriting production files, this mode lets you inspect the component structure, view logs, and confirm correctness — without deploying.

It’s ideal for blueprint testing, code review, debugging, or validating changes before syncing to Git or installing in Joomla. You can treat this mode as a “dry-run” build — perfect for safe iterations during component development.

🧰 Key Features

• 🧪 Safe “Dry-Run” Compilation
  Generate the full structure of your component — files, folders, configs — without packaging or installing it.
• 📂 Output Directory for Review
  The compiler builds the component into a local output folder (e.g., /media/zips or /tmp/...), allowing you to inspect:
  • Manifest XML
  • Helper classes
  • MVC folders
  • Snippets, templates, layouts
  • Language files, config, install scripts
• 📘 Debug-Enhanced Logs
  Gain visibility into:
  • File inclusion steps
  • Tag insert/replace actions
  • PHP errors or logic problems
  • Field or view processing issues
• 🔍 Compare Output with Previous Builds
  Detect changes in structure, line count, or packaging logic between builds — especially helpful in Git workflows.
• ⚙️ No System Installation Required
  Skip Joomla’s installer entirely — no plugins registered, no menus created, no database tables imported.
• 🧠 Ideal for Blueprint Validation
  Quickly test whether a new or imported blueprint is structurally valid before compiling or installing in Joomla.

⏱️ When to Use It

• 🔧 Debugging a field or layout issue before deploying
• 🧪 Verifying the output of a newly imported blueprint
• 🔁 Testing insert tags, compiler hooks, or super power class generation
• 📤 Preparing for Git commits without triggering version bloat
• 🚫 Avoiding Joomla install conflicts during early dev

🚀 How to Activate It

1. Go to the JCB Component List (where your projects are listed).
2. Click the “Build” button dropdown next to your component.
3. Choose Compile → Test Mode or Compile → Dry Run.
   (Label may vary depending on UI version.)
4. Wait for the compiler to complete.
5. View the output folder or logs.

Optional:

• Enable additional debug logging in global JCB settings.
• Use CLI: joomla jcb:build --test --component=mycomponent

📍 Conclusion

Test-Friendly Compiler Mode offers a safe space to experiment, verify, and debug your components without affecting your live Joomla environment. Whether reviewing a community blueprint or refining a complex snippet system, it’s your shield against unnecessary rebuilds or accidental installs.