How to use the command 'debchange' (with examples)

The debchange command is a tool utilized by Debian package maintainers to manage the debian/changelog file of a Debian source package. This file is a vital part of Debian package management because it details the package’s history, which includes updates, reasons for changes, and bug fixes. debchange streamlines and optimizes this process by providing structured commands to add new entries or modify existing ones in the changelog file, aiding in maintaining clarity and ensuring every change is accurately documented and attributed.

Use case 1: Add a new version for a non-maintainer upload to the changelog

Code:

debchange --nmu

Motivation:

The need to perform a non-maintainer upload (NMU) typically arises when someone other than the package’s official maintainer needs to make a critical update or fix. This can happen when there is an urgent bug that needs immediate attention, and the maintainer is unavailable or unresponsive. It’s essential for the Debian community that these contributions are duly noted in the changelog, ensuring transparency for users who rely on the package. By using debchange --nmu, the contributor can effortlessly insert an entry specifying that this upload was conducted by someone outside the maintainer team, adhering to community practices.

Explanation:

• --nmu: This argument specifically denotes that the changelog entry being added is for a non-maintainer upload. It adjusts the version number format to indicate the NMU status, typically appending +nmuX (where X is a number) to the version. This format acts as a clear signal to users and maintainers alike that the upload was carried out by an individual who is not the official package maintainer.

Example Output:

debchange: new entry added for non-maintainer upload version 1.0+nm1.
Please update the new changelog entry before finalizing your changes.

Use case 2: Add a changelog entry to the current version

Code:

debchange --append

Motivation:

There are instances where a change or update does not warrant a new version number, such as minor documentation enhancements or non-critical tweaks shared with internal teams. In such cases, the package version might remain constant, but it is still beneficial to document the adjustments for future reference. Using debchange --append, maintainers can append additional details to the current version without incrementing the version number, thereby retaining a detailed record of all activities related to that release.

Explanation:

• --append: This argument allows the user to append new entries or textual descriptions to the current version in the changelog. The purpose is to continue integrating new information without altering the version number, facilitating situations where documentation or non-essential changes occur within the same release cycle.

Example Output:

debchange: successfully appended additional information to version 1.0.
Review the changelog for all recent updates and finalize as needed.

Use case 3: Add a changelog entry to close the bug with specified ID

Code:

debchange --closes bug_id

Motivation:

Bug tracking is a fundamental aspect of software development, and ensuring that resolved issues are properly documented helps in tracking progress and providing transparency to the user base. When a specific bug has been fixed, marking it as “closed” within the changelog informs users of the resolution and improves overall credibility and communication. The debchange --closes option provides a straightforward way to reference and close bugs directly from the changelog, linking each fix to its corresponding issue and maintaining a bridge to any issue tracker used by Debian.

Explanation:

• --closes: This argument is followed by a bug_id, which is the unique identifier for the bug in question. The inclusion of this argument automatically constructs a changelog entry marked to ‘close’ the specified bug ID, integrating it into the historical context and ensuring that the fix is documented correctly.

Example Output:

debchange: entry added to close bug #12345.
Verify the changelog for accuracy and ensure the bug ID is correct before releasing.

Conclusion:

The debchange command provides a structured, efficient way for Debian package maintainers and contributors to manage and update the debian/changelog file. Whether making NMU updates, appending information to hold a comprehensive record, or specifically closing bugs, debchange ensures that all changes are meticulously recorded and communicated. Each specialized use case helps keep the package management process organized, transparent, and informative for all stakeholders.