Run logic tests in Xcode 4 without launching the simulator

Question

I want to run tests in Xcode 4 using OCUnit without launching the simulator. Please, don't try and convince me I am doing unit testing wrong or anything like that. I like to do TDD the traditional way: write the API for the class in the tests, then make the class pass the tests. I will write separate tests that are end-to-end that run in the simulator.

If there's no way to do this, then please can someone tell me how to have the test harness not instantiate the whole app? My app is event driven, and it sends a bunch of events through when it starts up that mess with my tests.

Answer 1

Please can someone tell me how to have the test harness not instantiate the whole app? My app is event driven, and it sends a bunch of events through when it starts up that mess with my tests.

I use Xcode 4's built-in testing. App instantiation may seem like a pain, but as I write on Xcode Unit Testing: The Good, the Bad, the Ugly, it makes it possible to write tests without distinguishing between logic tests and application tests. Specifically, it lets me write unit tests for view controllers.

Here's what I do to avoid my full startup sequence:

Edit the scheme

• Select the Test action
• In "Test" select the Arguments tab
• Disable "Use the Run action's options"
• Add an environment variable, setting runningTests to YES

Edit your app delegate

• Add the following to -application:didFinishLaunchingWithOptions: as soon as it makes sense to:

  #if DEBUG
      if (getenv("runningTests"))
          return YES;
  #endif
  

• Do the same for -applicationDidBecomeActive: but simply return.

Update: I have changed my approach. See How to Easily Switch Your App Delegate for Testing.