PixInsight Update Nightmare: What You Need to Know to Survive!

Introduction

This tutorial addresses a common issue faced by PixInsight users after updates, where scripts or processes may disappear from the menu. We will explore three methods to potentially restore your missing features, ranging from simple checks to more advanced solutions.

Step 1: Check Feature Scripts

• Navigate to the Scripts folder:
  • Open PixInsight.
  • Go to the menu and select Script > Feature Scripts.
• Look for your missing scripts:
  • Check if the scripts, such as "Forex Palette Utility" or "GHS," are unticked.
  • If they are unticked, simply tick them to restore.
• If scripts are still missing:
  • Click on the Regenerate button or the Add button.
  • Browse to the default script location:
    • For Windows, navigate to C:\Program Files\PixInsight\Source\Scripts.
  • Select the script folder and click Select Folder.
  • Click Done to re-add the scripts.

Step 2: Update Repositories

• Access repository management:
  • Go to Resources > Updates > Manage Repositories.
• Check for updates:
  • Click on Resources > Updates > Check for Updates.
  • This process compares your local repository file with the PixInsight server.
• If no updates are available:
  • Locate the updates file:
    • For Windows, it is located at C:\Program Files\PixInsight\updates.xri.
  • Create a backup of the file:
    • Copy the file and rename it to updates.xri.old.
  • Delete the original updates.xri file.
• Check for updates again:
  • Go to Resources > Updates > Check for Updates.
  • This will download a fresh copy of the updates file from the PixInsight server.

Step 3: Repair PixInsight Installation

• Access the Windows settings:
  • Go to Add or Remove Programs from your Windows settings.
• Search for PixInsight:
  • Find PixInsight in the list of installed programs.
• Repair the installation:
  • Click on PixInsight and select Uninstall.
  • You should see an option to Repair.
• Follow the prompts to complete the repair process.
• If necessary, you can uninstall and then re-download PixInsight from the official website.

Conclusion

By following the steps outlined above, you should be able to restore any missing processes or scripts in PixInsight after an update. Start with the simplest methods to check feature scripts and update repositories before resorting to a repair of the installation. If you continue to experience issues, consider reaching out to the PixInsight community or support for further assistance.