Plugin Lifecycle

How Tacview runs your plugin

When a plugin is loaded, Tacview looks for specific functions and runs them at the right moments.

This system works the same way for all plugin types and programming languages. Each function serves a clear purpose, such as initializing your add-on, updating it every frame, or cleaning up when it is unloaded.

You only need to implement the functions your plugin requires. Tacview automatically detects and calls them when appropriate.

Common functions

Most add-ons rely on three general-purpose functions:

• PluginInitialize() runs when your plugin is loaded. Use it to set up your data and register commands.

• PluginUpdate() runs once per frame. Use it to check user input, update your logic, or process telemetry in real time.

• PluginShutdown() runs when your plugin is unloaded. Use it to clean up and remove anything your plugin added.

Specialized functions

Some plugins react to specific events, such as drawing custom 3D elements or handling telemetry data.

In these cases, you can declare additional functions so Tacview knows what to run and when.

For example, the Layers system lets your plugin draw directly in the 3D view or display custom panels. These specialized functions build on the main lifecycle functions and give you finer control over Tacview’s interface and rendering.

Other advanced functions, such as those for telemetry import and export, will be added over time and documented when available.

This chapter introduces each lifecycle function, explains when it runs, and gives practical advice on how to use it effectively.

If you are new to Tacview add-ons, start with the three main lifecycle functions before exploring the advanced ones.