Node.js: Unraveling the "Importing binding name 'default' cannot be resolved..." Error with HLS.js
Trying to integrate HLS.js into your Node.js project? You're not alone! This error, "Importing binding name 'default' cannot be resolved by star export entries," can pop up and leave you scratching your head. Let's break down the issue and provide a solution.
The Scenario: HLS.js in Node.js
You might be aiming to use HLS.js in a server-side Node.js environment. Perhaps you're building a streaming server or handling HLS video manipulation. When trying to import HLS.js, you encounter the error:
import * as Hls from 'hls.js';
// Error: Importing binding name 'default' cannot be resolved by star export entries
This error stems from the way HLS.js is structured.
Understanding the Error: Star Exports and Defaults
The error message signifies a clash between how HLS.js is designed and how you're attempting to import it.
-
HLS.js's Export: HLS.js uses a default export for its core functionality. This means it exports a single, primary object, typically named
Hls, which you'd access through thedefaultkeyword. -
Your Import: The
import * as Hls from 'hls.js';line uses a star export. This attempts to import all named exports from the module, but HLS.js's main export is not a named export. It's the default export, and star exports don't cover defaults.
Solution: Direct Default Import
The simplest fix involves directly importing the default export:
import Hls from 'hls.js';
// Now you can use the Hls object:
const player = new Hls();
// ...
This approach accurately imports the HLS.js functionality, avoiding the conflict between default exports and star exports.
Additional Insights:
-
Named Exports: If HLS.js had any named exports (e.g., helper functions), you could import them individually using a named import:
import { someHelperFunction } from 'hls.js'; -
Common JS: If your Node.js project uses the CommonJS (CJS) module system, you can import HLS.js using
require:const Hls = require('hls.js');
Summary
The "Importing binding name 'default'..." error in Node.js with HLS.js occurs due to an incorrect import approach. By importing the default export directly, you can resolve the issue and smoothly utilize HLS.js in your server-side applications.
Resources
- HLS.js Documentation: https://hls.js.org/
- Node.js Documentation: https://nodejs.org/
- JavaScript Modules (MDN): https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/JavaScript/Reference/Statements/import
