Development Environment / pip

TODO SAM 2016-12-11 need to determine what version of pip is installed with QGIS Python.

It may be necessary to install add-on packages that extend the basic Python functionality. For example, the MkDocs software used to prepare this documentation is an add-on package.

pip Background

The pip software is used to install Python packages and is the preferred installation tool since older tools such as easy_install do not support current conventions. Therefore, in order to install third-party packages, install pip first. See the following resources:

• Installing Packages - should use pip if possible
• Stack Overflow article on using pip when multiple Python versions are installed - it is possible

In summary:

• Add-on packages should install into a location consistent with the Python software install location.
• The pip utility should be used to install add-on packages.
• It is possible to use pip to install modules when multiple versions of Python are installed. See the examples below for specific operating systems.

Install pip on Windows

The following uses a Windows Command Shell. To check for whether pip is already installed,:

py -2 -m pip --version
pip 7.0.1 from C:\Python27\lib\site-packages (python 2.7)

py -3 -m pip --version
pip 8.1.2 from C:\Users\sam\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python35-32\lib\site-packages (python 3.5)

If not installed, install with the following, repeating for each Python installation:

py -2 -m ensurepip

py -3 -m ensurepip