"Build Input File Cannot Be Found" in Swift 4.2, Xcode 10.0: A Common Swift Build Error and Solutions
Have you encountered the dreaded "Build Input File Cannot Be Found" error in Xcode 10.0 while working with Swift 4.2? It's a common problem that can be frustrating, but luckily, there are several solutions you can try. This article will break down the error, explore common causes, and guide you through troubleshooting steps.
Understanding the "Build Input File Cannot Be Found" Error
This error typically arises when Xcode can't locate a required file during the build process. This file could be a source code file, a header file, a resource file, or any other file necessary for your project to compile correctly.
Common Causes of the Error
- Missing or Incorrect File Path: Xcode might not be able to locate the file because the path specified in your project settings or within the code itself is incorrect or incomplete. This can happen due to:
- Incorrect File Locations: Moving files within your project, deleting files, or changing their names can lead to mismatched paths.
- Typographical Errors: Even a single character difference in the file path can cause the error.
- File Removed or Renamed: If you deleted or renamed a file, Xcode might still be referencing the old file name. This can occur during project restructuring, code refactoring, or accidentally deleting files.
- Build Settings Issues: Incorrect or conflicting settings in your Xcode project's Build Settings can lead to file path errors.
Troubleshooting Steps
Here's a step-by-step guide to resolving the "Build Input File Cannot Be Found" error:
- Verify File Paths:
- Check Project Settings: In Xcode, navigate to "Build Phases" and inspect the "Compile Sources", "Copy Bundle Resources", "Headers", and other relevant sections. Ensure all file paths are correct and point to the actual locations of your files.
- Inspect Code: Double-check your code for any references to the missing file using relative or absolute paths. Make sure these paths are accurate and point to the file's correct location.
- Clean and Rebuild: A common fix for build errors is to clean your build folder and rebuild your project.
- Clean: Go to Product > Clean Build Folder in Xcode.
- Rebuild: Go to Product > Build.
- Check Build Settings:
- "Search Paths": Review your project's "Search Paths" settings (located under "Build Settings"). Ensure that the relevant directories containing your source files are included in the "Header Search Paths" and "Framework Search Paths".
- "Other Linker Flags": If you're linking external libraries, double-check your "Other Linker Flags" setting to ensure correct library paths.
- Re-add Files:
- If you recently moved or deleted files, re-add them to your project by dragging them into Xcode. This ensures proper linking and updates the file references in your project settings.
- Delete Derived Data: Deleting the Derived Data folder can sometimes resolve build errors caused by outdated or corrupted data.
- **Go to "File > Project Settings"
- Click on "Locations".
- Click on "Derived Data".
- Choose "Advanced" and click on "Delete".
Additional Tips
- Use Relative Paths: Whenever possible, use relative file paths instead of absolute paths to make your code more portable and less susceptible to path errors.
- Keep Code and Project Organization: Maintaining a clean and well-organized project structure can help prevent file path issues.
Conclusion
The "Build Input File Cannot Be Found" error is often a sign of mismatched file paths or build settings issues. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can usually identify and resolve the problem. Remember to double-check your file paths, clean and rebuild your project, review your build settings, and consider re-adding files if necessary.
