Fail compile on purpose - Using source code of ongoing project

Question

I am using the sources of project that is in an ongoing development and constantly changes.

In a specific scenario, I must change the sources of the project to adapt it to my own needs.

I want to create a define (or set of defines) that will ensure that if I updated the sources of the external project, and I didn't added my changes again to the new version of the code, I will fail the compile. In other words - I want to protect my self from forgetting writing certain code

How would you recommend?

Using IAR workbench, compiling for TI25XX

Answer 1

You can use the preprocessor directives #ifndef and #error:

#ifndef SOMETHING
  #error "Error message!"
#endif

If SOMETHING is not defined, the compilation will halt and "Error message!" will be displayed.

What SOMETHING actually is will have to be decided by you. Perhaps it can be a version number¹.

#if(CURRENT_VERSION < MINIMUM_VERSION)
  #error "Version out of date!"
#endif

¹ Suggested by indiv.

Answer 2

I'd suggest you add a Preprocessor Error Directive, #error, inside a #ifndef block. For example:

#ifndef YOAVS_SPECIAL_CODE
#error "You forgot the code Yoav."
#endif