Updater Beta

The beta 1 of updater is ready for you to try out.

Over the next few days, I'll be adding more packages and creating additional documentation - but you can start using it, now, if you don't mind figuring it out yourself.

Here's what you need to do:

1. Install a fresh copy of Joomla 1.5.3 (the latest), which you can get here:
   http://joomlacode.org/gf/project/joomla/frs/?action=FrsReleaseBrowse&frs_package_id=3587


2. Login and click on Extensions | Install / Uninstall from the main menu.


3. Copy & paste the following URL into the Install from URL field, then click "install":
   Sign up for the beta now!
   
4. Select Components | Add Software from the main menu to access the updater.


5. The first time you access the system, you must register. Follow the instructions to register, then activate your account.


6. After activation, play around with the installer. You should be able to install 5-10 packages immediately.

Notes: you can (and should) use the the same Network Id for all your sites. This allows you to purchase a single subscription. Also, please remember this is beta software, so please don't blow up any sites that matter.

Things You Should Know

The registration / activation system can be confusing for some people. I'll take any suggestions you have to make it an easier to use setup process.

Currently, there's no visual feedback when the system is installing something, and it can take a while (30 seconds or more for big packages like Community Builder). So please be patient.

The system tries to be smart enough to allow you to install only packages that will work on your system. Many packages require legacy mode, which must be enabled before you can install certain packages that require it. Soon, the system will add other checks like the correct version of PHP and various other dependencies.

Right now, after a package is installed, there's not much feedback as to the next step. (Great, it's installed, now what?). We have links to the various documentation pages in the details section, but I'm looking for a good way to present a "readme" or something after installation. Drop me a line if you have any suggestions on how this could work.

Over the next few days, you'll be seeing a lot more packages added to the system. My goal is at least one or two per day, on average - maybe mor. Tell me what you'd like to see..

An improved UI is planned shortly (mid-July), plus any bug fixes / implementation of the ideas you provide.

Please use the satisfaction forum for feedback: http://getsatisfaction.com/intellispire