Exposing public properties for binding in MvvmCross is crucial for effective data binding between views and view models. Here are some best practices to follow:
Understanding Binding Concepts
In MvvmCross, binding involves connecting a source property in the view model to a target property on the view. The source is typically a public property in the view model, while the target is a public property on the view that you want to bind to[1].
Public Properties
For a property to be bindable in MvvmCross, it must be public. This applies to both the view model and the view. If you are using a custom view or control, ensure that the properties you want to bind are public[1][2].
Implementing INotifyPropertyChanged
In the view model, implement INotifyPropertyChanged to notify the binding engine when properties change. MvvmCross provides helper methods like `SetProperty` on `MvxViewModel` to simplify this process. This ensures that changes in the view model are reflected in the view[4].
Custom Target Bindings
If you need to bind properties in TwoWay mode or handle custom scenarios, you may need to create a custom TargetBinding. This involves defining how to set the property value and how to listen for changes. You can use base classes like `MvxPropertyInfoTargetBinding` or `MvxWithEventPropertyInfoTargetBinding` to simplify the process[2].
Registering Target Bindings
After creating a custom TargetBinding, you must register it in the `Setup.cs` file by overriding `FillTargetFactories`. This ensures that MvvmCross knows how to handle your custom bindings[2].
Fluent Bindings
MvvmCross supports Fluent Bindings, which allow you to define bindings in code. When using Fluent Bindings, ensure that the target is the actual view you want to bind to, or expose the desired property as public[1].
Nested Properties
MvvmCross supports binding to nested properties. For example, you can bind to a property of a sub-view model. Ensure that the sub-view model implements `INotifyPropertyChanged` and that the binding path is correctly specified[5].
Debugging Bindings
If bindings are not working as expected, use `MvxBindingTrace` to increase the binding trace level. This can help identify issues by providing detailed output about binding operations[5].
By following these best practices, you can effectively expose and bind public properties in MvvmCross, ensuring robust and maintainable MVVM applications.
Citations:[1] https://blog.ostebaronen.dk/2018/01/mvvmcross-binding-target.html
[2] https://www.mvvmcross.com/documentation/advanced/custom-data-binding
[3] https://stackoverflow.com/questions/79082019/what-is-the-best-practice-to-bind-and-manipulate-properties-on-a-user-control-in
[4] https://www.mvvmcross.com/documentation/fundamentals/data-binding
[5] https://stackoverflow.com/questions/20986140/binding-sub-properties-mvvmcross
[6] https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/archive/msdn-magazine/2014/august/windows-phone-build-mvvm-apps-with-xamarin-and-mvvmcross
[7] https://stackoverflow.com/questions/10700445/in-mvvmcross-how-do-i-do-custom-bind-properties
[8] https://www.mvvmcross.com/documentation/advanced/customizing-using-App-and-Setup