9+ CMake set_target_properties Tricks & Examples

cmake set_target_properties

9+ CMake set_target_properties Tricks & Examples

This command allows modification of build target properties within CMake. These properties influence how the target is built, linked, and installed. For example, the command can be used to add compile flags, link libraries, or set installation paths. A typical usage might look like: set_target_properties(my_target PROPERTIES OUTPUT_NAME "MyExecutable"), which renames the final executable produced from the `my_target` build target.

Controlling target properties provides fine-grained control over the build process. It enables developers to manage platform-specific build settings, optimize for different configurations (debug, release, etc.), and ensure consistent project structure. This level of control is crucial for complex projects and cross-platform development, promoting better organization and maintainability. Historically, managing such properties was often less structured, making CMake’s approach a significant improvement.

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