1.2 Navigating MPLAB X IDE and VS Code

For users new to the VS Code environment, there are some key differences in navigating the tools. MPLAB X has a dedicated toolbar (see Figure 1-2) for commonly used functions, such as setting up projects, building code, and launching other plug-ins. VS Code has a command palette (see Figure 1-3) where the same functions can be executed. In addition to the command palette, VS Code places common tool functions in various locations within the extension windows, which become visible when hovered over. For navigation, editors, and output windows, VS Code arranges them in a similar orientation to MPLAB X.

Figure 1-2. MPLAB X IDE Windows
Figure 1-3. MPLAB Tools for VS Code Windows

Refer to the VS Code User Interface (UI) document for a comprehensive guide for the VS Code UI.