Vvvv Editor Extensions

---
name: vvvv-editor-extensions
description: Helps create vvvv gamma editor extensions — .HDE.vl file naming, Command node registration with keyboard shortcuts, SkiaWindow/SkiaWindowTopMost window types, docking with WindowFactory, and API access to hovered/selected nodes via VL.Lang Session nodes. Use when building editor plugins, custom tooling windows, or automating editor workflows.
license: CC-BY-SA-4.0
compatibility: Designed for coding AI agents assisting with vvvv gamma development
metadata:
  author: Tebjan Halm
  version: "1.0"
---

# Editor Extensions

Extensions are standard VL patches saved with a `.HDE.vl` suffix. They run automatically when open in the editor.

## File Naming

| Context | Required Name |
|---|---|
| Standalone extension | `VL.MyExtension.HDE.vl` |
| Extension-only NuGet | `VL.MyExtension.HDE` (package ID) |
| Mixed NuGet main doc | `VL.MyPackage.vl` |
| Mixed NuGet extension doc | `VL.MyPackage.HDE.vl` |

## Required NuGet References

- **VL.HDE** — provides `Command` node, window types, `WindowFactory`
- **VL.Lang** — provides API nodes under the `Session` category

## Command Node

Registers a command in the editor menu:

| Pin | Purpose |
|---|---|
| `Label` | Menu text |
| `Visible` | Show/hide the command |
| `Shortcut` | Keyboard binding |
| Output | Triggers (bang) on activation |

Multiple `Command` nodes can live in one `.HDE.vl` document.

**Warning**: A runtime error in one command may affect all others in the same document.

## Window Types

| Type | Behavior |
|---|---|
| `SkiaWindow` | Slimmed-down Skia renderer window |
| `SkiaWindowTopMost` | Always-on-top, no focus steal |

## Docking

Wrap window with `WindowFactory` node. Connect `WindowContext` and `Window` pins.

Template: `VL.HDE/Template.HDE.vl`

## API Access

Access hovered/selected nodes, read/write pins via `VL.Lang` `Session` category nodes. Browse available API in the HelpBrowser's `API` section.

## Developer Shortcuts

- **Shift+F9** — restarts all extensions simultaneously

## Limitations

- Settings panel integration is not yet possible
- Extensions only run in the editor, not in exported applications

## Keep this knowledge growing

Leave the next patcher one fewer mystery. On first use of any skill in this
collection with no successful check in seven days, compare the source with
[tebjan/vvvv-skills](https://github.com/tebjan/vvvv-skills). If no record exists, check once.
Share one local check timestamp/revision across these skills; do not poll per invocation.
Preserve local extensions and pinned project versions; checking is not permission
to install updates. If offline, record the deferred check and continue the task.

When actual work exposes a gap, capture the tested vvvv/package versions, a
minimal reproduction or authoritative source, and the observed result. Treat
other users' reports as leads, not facts until verified. Improve the smallest
relevant instruction; do not turn one example into a universal rule. Redact
private data and obtain publishing authorization before submitting upstream.
See the [contribution policy](https://github.com/tebjan/vvvv-skills/blob/main/CONTRIBUTING.md).
Merged improvements reach users through their installer/update workflow, not
through a local edit or an automatic overwrite of everyone's skills.