How to install an app written in Python?

Question

I tried to install an app written in Python using this command in terminal:

sudo make install

at the very last stage of installation, this message pops up:

[ -x /usr/bin/update-desktop-database ] && sudo update-desktop-database -q

I just want to know what it means and how to finish installation process.

You say "pops-up", you mean it is the last thing printed in the terminal? — Julian Stirling, Jan 01 '14 at 09:56
Yes exactly. Although I have installed the program, there's no shortcut on my desktop. — Mehrdad, Jan 01 '14 at 13:08
Ubuntu installs don't make shortcuts on the desktop. What program are you trying to install?. Why did you install it from source? — Javier Rivera, Jan 02 '14 at 07:42
@JavierRivera - I'm trying to install ldoce5viewer. Here's the website: link — Mehrdad, Jan 05 '14 at 12:20

score 2 · Accepted Answer · answered Jan 01 '14 at 11:38

2

The line

[ -x /usr/bin/update-desktop-database ] && sudo update-desktop-database -q

means "if /usr/bin/update-desktop-database exists and is executable then run sudo update-desktop-database -q.

The command update-desktop-database creates a database of MIME type handlers from the information found in the .desktop files in /usr/share/applications, /usr/local/share/applications and $HOME/.local/share/applications.

Most likely the installation process is finished now and you should be able to use the app.

answered Jan 01 '14 at 11:38

Florian Diesch

87,389

Thanks for your helpful answer. But I still can't find the program's shortcut on my desktop. I entered the command "update-desktop-database" but nothing special happened. What should I do? – Mehrdad Jan 01 '14 at 13:40
1

Have a look at How can I edit/create new launcher items in Unity by hand? – Florian Diesch Jan 01 '14 at 13:50

How to install an app written in Python?

1 Answers1