Extended Model Definitions

Extended model definitions (.XEM files) provide means for customizing and extending PowerDesigner metaclasses, parameters and generation. XEMs are typed like models in PowerDesigner. You create an XEM for a specific type of model and you cannot share these files between heterogeneous models.

For example, you can attach XEMs to a Java model to help you in working with a particular IDE, or O/R mapping framework. The XEM may provide objects with additional properties or property tabs, and define additional generation targets and options.

PowerDesigner provides a number of predefined XEMs and you can also create your own.

An extended model contains:

• Attaching Extensions to a Model
  You can attach an extended model definition (.xem) to your model when you create it by clicking the Select Extensions button on the New Model dialog. You can attach an extended model definition to an existing model from the List of Extended Model Definitions.
• Creating an Extended Model Definition
  You can create generic and specific extended model definitions:
• Exporting an Extended Model Definition
  If you export an XEM created in a model, it becomes available in the List of Extended Model Definitions, and can be shared with other models. When you export an XEM, the original remains embedded in the model.
• Extended Model Definition Properties
  All extended model definitions have the same basic category structure.
• Extending Code Generation with Extended Model Definitions
  The extended model definition generation parameters influence the content of the generation dialog box. The following table shows how you can customize the generation from the extended model definition editor.
• Creating Separate Generation Targets with Extended Model Definitions
  Extended model definitions can be used to create new generation targets.