Debugging SOMPY: How to Access Source Code Instead of Bytecode in Python

Learn how to debug the SOMPY library in Python by accessing the source code instead of confusing bytecode. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to implement changes effectively.
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Debugging SOMPY: How to Access Source Code Instead of Bytecode in Python

If you're working with the SOMPY library in Python and trying to debug your self-organizing map (SOM) implementation, you might run into an issue where the debugger only displays Python bytecode when you attempt to step into library functions. This can be incredibly frustrating, especially if you've made changes to the code and want to see those changes reflected in your debugging session. In this guide, we'll explore why this happens and how to ensure that you can access the source code while debugging.

Understanding the Problem

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Instead of the actual code you were hoping to see, such as:

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The bytecode doesn't provide any meaningful context or visibility into the logic you've implemented. So how can you gain access to the original source code during debugging?

The Solution: Installing SOMPY in Editable Mode

The key to solving the problem is ensuring that the source files of the SOMPY library are accessible. This can be easily accomplished by reinstalling the package with a specific flag. Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Uninstall SOMPY

First, you need to remove the existing installation of SOMPY. Open your terminal or command prompt and execute the following command:

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Step 2: Reinstall SOMPY in Editable Mode

Next, you should reinstall the SOMPY library in editable mode. This will allow you to make changes to the library and have those changes take effect immediately. Run the following command:

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Conclusion

Debugging can often be a challenging process, especially when working with external libraries that may obscure their functionality in bytecode format. By following the steps outlined above, you can ensure that you have clear visibility into the SOMPY library's source code. This allows you to properly debug your changes and effectively implement new methods for computing the best-matching unit (BMU) in your self-organizing map.

Now, with the library installed in editable mode, you can confidently tackle any further challenges in your SOM implementation. Happy debugging!