2.3. The CCode Attribute

Vala generates C code in a certain style, examples are Vala following its own naming conventions and the ordering of automatically generated parameters. The CCode attribute provides fine control of the C code produced by Vala and will be used extensively when binding a C library that uses its own conventions.

The CCode attribute will be used for:

• including a C header file

• converting from Vala naming conventions to a library’s naming conventions

• binding a library to Vala’s assisted memory management

• controlling the position of function call arguments, especially Vala generated arguments

• overcoming various edge cases

These are introduced at the relevant points throughout the tutorial. For a single reference see the Vala Manual Attributes Section.