angular-docs-cn/public/docs/ts/latest/guide/testing.jade

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block includes
include ../_util-fns
- var _JavaScript = 'JavaScript';
//- Double underscore means don't escape var, use !{__var}.
- var __chaining_op = '<code>;</code> or <code>,</code>';
- var __new_op = '<code>new</code>';
- var __objectAsMap = 'object';
:marked
This chapter offers tips and techniques for testing Angular applications.
Along the way you will learn some general testing principles and techniques but the focus is on
Angular testing.
a#top
:marked
# Contents
* [Introduction to Angular Testing](#testing-101)
* [Setup](#setup)
* [The first karma test](#1st-karma-test)
* [The Angular Testing Platform (ATP) ](#atp-intro)
* [The sample application and its tests](#sample-app)
* [A simple component test](#simple-component-test)
* [Test a component with a service dependency](#component-with-dependency)
* [Test a component with an async service](#component-with-async-service)
* [Test a component with an external template](#component-with-external-template)
* [Test a component with inputs and outputs](#component-with-inputs-output)
* [Test a component inside a test host component](#component-inside-test-host)
* [Test a routed component](#routed-component)
* [Isolated tests](#testing-without-atp "Testing without the Angular Testing Platform")
* [_TestBed_ API](#atp-api)
* [FAQ](#faq "Frequently asked questions")
:marked
Its a big agenda. Fortunately, you can learn a little bit at a time and put each lesson to use.
# Live examples
The chapter sample code is available as live examples for inspection, experiment, and download.
* <live-example>The sample application</live-example>
* <live-example plnkr="1st-specs">The first spec</live-example>
* <live-example plnkr="app-specs">The complete application specs</live-example>
* <live-example plnkr="bag-specs">A grab bag of demonstration specs</live-example>
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#testing-101
:marked
# Introduction to Angular Testing
You write tests to explore and confirm the behavior of the application.
1. They **guard** against changes that break existing code (“regressions”).
1. They **clarify** what the code does both when used as intended and when faced with deviant conditions.
1. They **reveal** mistakes in design and implementation.
Tests shine a harsh light on the code from many angles.
When a part of the application seems hard to test, the root cause is often a design flaw,
something to cure now rather than later when it becomes expensive to fix.
This chapter assumes that you know something about testing. Don't worry if you don't.
There are plenty of books and online resources to get up to speed.
<!-- TODO
:marked
## Learn more
Learn more about basic Jasmine testing here
[Resources TBD](./#)
-->
## Tools and Technologies
You can write and run Angular tests with a variety of tools and technologies.
This chapter describes specific choices that are known to work well.
table(width="100%")
col(width="20%")
col(width="80%")
tr
th Technology
th Purpose
tr(style=top)
td(style="vertical-align: top") Jasmine
td
:marked
The [Jasmine test framework](http://jasmine.github.io/2.4/introduction.html).
provides everything needed to write basic tests.
It ships with an HTML test runner that executes tests in the browser.
tr(style=top)
td(style="vertical-align: top") Angular Testing Platform
td
:marked
The Angular Testing Platform creates a test environment and harness
for the application code under test.
Use it to condition and control parts of the application as they
interact _within_ the Angular environment.
tr(style=top)
td(style="vertical-align: top") Karma
td
:marked
The [karma test runner](https://karma-runner.github.io/1.0/index.html)
is ideal for writing and running tests while developing the application.
It can be an integral part of the application build process.
This chapter describes how to setup and run tests with karma.
tr(style=top)
td(style="vertical-align: top") Protractor
td
:marked
Use protractor to write and run _end-to-end_ (e2e) tests.
End-to-end tests explore the application _as users experience it_.
In e2e testing, one process runs the real application
and a second process runs protractor tests that simulate user behavior
and assert that the application responds in the browser as expected.
.l-hr
a#setup
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# Setup
Many think writing tests is fun.
Few enjoy setting up the test environment.
To get to the fun as quickly as possible,
the deep details of setup appear later in the chapter (_forthcoming_).
A bare minimum of discussion plus the downloadable source code must suffice for now.
There are two fast paths to getting started.
1. Start a new project following the instructions in the
[QuickStart github repository](https://github.com/angular/quickstart/blob/master/README.md).
1. Start a new project with the
[Angular CLI](https://github.com/angular/angular-cli/blob/master/README.md).
Both approaches install **npm packages, files, and scripts** pre-configured for applications
built in their respective modalities.
Their artifacts and procedures differ slightly but their essentials are the same
and there are no differences in the test code.
In this chapter, the application and its tests are based on the QuickStart repo.
.alert.is-helpful
:marked
If youur application was based on the QuickStart repository,
you can skip the rest of this section and get on with your first test.
The QuickStart repo provides all necessary setup.
:marked
Here's brief description of the setup files.
table(width="100%")
col(width="20%")
col(width="80%")
tr
th File
th Description
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>karma.conf.js</code>
td
:marked
The karma configuration file that specifies which plug-ins to use,
which application and test files to load, which browser(s) to use,
and how to report test results.
It loads three other setup files:
* `systemjs.config.js`
* `systemjs.config.extras.js`
* `karma-test-shim.js`
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>karma-test-shim.js</code>
td
:marked
This shim prepares karma specifically for the Angular test environment
and launches karma itself.
It loads the `systemjs.config.js` file as part of that process.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>systemjs.config.js</code>
td
:marked
[SystemJS](https://github.com/systemjs/systemjs/blob/master/README.md)
loads the application and test modules.
This script tells SystemJS where to find the module files and how to load them.
It's the same version of the file used by QuickStart-based applications.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>systemjs.config.extras.js</code>
td
:marked
An optional file that supplements the SystemJS configuration in `systemjs.config.js` with
configuration for the specific needs of the application itself.
A stock `systemjs.config.js` can't anticipate those needs.
You fill the gaps here.
The sample version for this chapter adds the **model barrel**
to the SystemJs `packages` configuration.
tr
td(colspan="2")
+makeExample('testing/ts/systemjs.config.extras.js', '', 'systemjs.config.extras.js')(format='.')
:marked
### npm packages
The sample tests are written to run in Jasmine and karma.
The two "fast path" setups added the appropriate Jasmine and karma npm packages to the
`devDependencies` section of the `package.json`.
They were installed when you ran `npm install`.
.l-hr
a#1st-karma-test
:marked
# The first karma test
Start with a simple test to make sure the setup works properly.
Create a new file called `1st.spec.ts` in the application root folder, `app/`
.alert.is-important
:marked
Tests written in Jasmine are called _specs_ .
**The filename extension must be `.spec.ts`**,
the convention adhered to by `karma.conf.js` and other tooling.
:marked
**Put spec files somewhere within the `app/` folder.**
The `karma.conf.js` tells karma to look for spec files there,
for reasons explained [below](#spec-file-location).
Add the following code to `app/1st.spec.ts`.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/1st.spec.ts', '', 'app/1st.spec.ts')(format='.')
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## Run karma
Compile and run it in karma from the command line.
.l-sub-section
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The QuickStart repo adds the following command to the `scripts` section in `package.json`.
code-example(format="." language="bash").
"test": "tsc && concurrently \"tsc -w\" \"karma start karma.conf.js\"",
:marked
Add that to your `package.json` if it's not there already.
:marked
Open a terminal or command window and enter
code-example(format="." language="bash").
npm test
:marked
The command compiles the application and test code a first time.
If the compile fails, the command aborts.
If it succeeds, the command re-compiles (this time in watch mode) in one process
and starts karma in another.
Both processes watch pertinent files and re-run when they detect changes.
After a few moments, karma opens a browser ...
figure.image-display
img(src='/resources/images/devguide/testing/karma-browser.png' style="width:400px;" alt="Karma browser")
:marked
... and starts writing to the console.
Hide (don't close!) the browser and focus on the console output which should look something like this.
code-example(format="." language="bash").
> npm test
> tsc && concurrently "tsc -w" "karma start karma.conf.js"
[0] 1:37:03 PM - Compilation complete. Watching for file changes.
[1] 24 07 2016 13:37:09.310:WARN [karma]: No captured browser, open http://localhost:9876/
[1] 24 07 2016 13:37:09.361:INFO [karma]: Karma v0.13.22 server started at http://localhost:9876/
[1] 24 07 2016 13:37:09.370:INFO [launcher]: Starting browser Chrome
[1] 24 07 2016 13:37:10.974:INFO [Chrome 51.0.2704]: Connected on socket /#Cf6A5PkvMzjbbtn1AAAA with id 24600087
[1] Chrome 51.0.2704: Executed 0 of 0 SUCCESS
Chrome 51.0.2704: Executed 1 of 1 SUCCESS
SUCCESS (0.005 secs / 0.005 secs)
:marked
Both the compiler and karma continue to run. The compiler output is preceeded by `[0]`;
the karma output by `[1]`.
Change the expectation from `true` to `false`.
The _compiler_ watcher detects the change and recompiles.
code-example(format="." language="bash").
[0] 1:49:21 PM - File change detected. Starting incremental compilation...
[0] 1:49:25 PM - Compilation complete. Watching for file changes.
:marked
The _karma_ watcher detects the change to the compilation output and re-runs the test.
code-example(format="." language="bash").
[1] Chrome 51.0.2704: Executed 0 of 1 SUCCESS
Chrome 51.0.2704 1st tests true is true FAILED
[1] Expected false to equal true.
[1] Chrome 51.0.2704: Executed 1 of 1 (1 FAILED) (0.005 secs / 0.005 secs)
:marked
It failed of course.
Restore the expectation from `false` back to `true`.
Both processes detect the change, re-run, and karma reports complete success.
.alert.is-helpful
:marked
The console log can be quite long. Keep your eye on the last line.
It says `SUCCESS` when all is well.
If it says `FAILED`, scroll up to look for the error or, if that's too painful,
pipe the console output to a file and inspect with your favorite editor.
code-example(format="." language="json").
npm test > spec-output.txt
:marked
## Test debugging
Debug specs in the browser in the same way you debug an application.
- Reveal the karma browser window (hidden earlier).
- Open the browser's “Developer Tools” (F12 or Ctrl-Shift-I).
- Pick the “sources” section
- Open the `1st.spec.ts` test file (Ctrl-P, then start typing the name of the file).
- Set a breakpoint in the test
- Refresh the browser … and it stops at the breakpoint.
figure.image-display
img(src='/resources/images/devguide/testing/karma-1st-spec-debug.png' style="width:700px;" alt="Karma debugging")
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#atp-intro
:marked
# The Angular Testing Platform (ATP)
Many tests explore how applications classes interact with Angular and the DOM while under Angular's control.
Such tests are easy to write with the help of the _Angular Testing Platform_ (ATP)
which consists of the `TestBed` class and some helper functions.
Tests written with the _Angular Testing Platform_ are the main focus of this chapter.
But they are not the only tests you should write.
### Isolated unit tests
You can and should write [isolated unit tests](#testing-without-atp "Testing without the Angular Testing Platform")
for components, directives, pipes, and services.
Isolated unit tests examine an instance of a class all by itself without
any dependence on Angular or any injected values.
The tester creates a test instance of the class with new, supplying fake constructor parameters as needed, and
then probes the test instance API surface.
Isolated tests don't reveal how the class interacts with Angular.
In particular, they can't reveal how a component class interacts with its own template or with other components.
Those tests require the Angular Testing Platform.
### Testing with the _ Angular Testing Platform_
The _Angular Testing Platform_ consists of the `TestBed` class and some helper functions from `@angular/core/testing`.
.alert.is-important
:marked
The _TestBed_ is officially _experimental_ and thus subject to change.
Consult the [API reference](../api/core/testing/index/TestBed-class.html) for the latest status.
:marked
The `TestBed` creates an Angular test module &mdash; an `@NgModule` class &mdash;
that you configure to produce the module environment for the class you want to test.
You tell the `TestBed` to create an instance of the test component and probe that instance with tests.
That's the `TestBed` in a nutshell.
In practice, you work with the static methods of the `TestBed` class.
These static methods create and update a fresh hidden `TestBed` instance before each Jasmine `it`.
.l-sub-section
:marked
You can access that hidden instance anytime by calling `getTestBed()`;
:marked
This `TestBed` instance comes pre-configured with a baseline of default providers and declarables (components, directives, and pipes)
that almost everyone needs.
This chapter tests a browser application so the default includes the `CommonModule` declarables from `@angular/common`
and the `BrowserModule` providers (some of them mocked) from `@angular/platform-browser`.
You refine the default test module configuration with application and test specifics
so that it can produce an instance of the test component in the Angular environment suitable for your tests.
Start by calling `TestBed.configureTestingModule` with an object that looks like `@NgModule` metadata.
This object defines additional imports, declarations, providers and schemas.
After configuring the `TestBed`, tell it to create an instance of the test component and the test fixture
you'll need to inspect and control the component's immediate environment.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/banner.component.spec.ts', 'simple-example-before-each', 'app/banner.component.spec.ts (simplified)')(format='.')
:marked
Angular tests can interact with the HTML in the test DOM,
simulate user activity, tell Angular to perform specific task (such as change detection),
and see the effects of these actions both in the test component and in the test DOM.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/banner.component.spec.ts', 'simple-example-it', 'app/banner.component.spec.ts (simplified)')(format='.')
:marked
A comprehensive review of the _TestBed_ API appears [later in the chapter](#atp-api).
Let's dive right into Angular testing, starting with with the components of a sample application.
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#sample-app
:marked
# The sample application and its tests
This chapter tests a cut-down version of the _Tour of Heroes_ [tutorial app](../tutorial).
The following live example shows how it works and provides the complete source code.
<live-example embedded img="devguide/testing/app-plunker.png"></live-example>
<br><br>
:marked
The following live example runs all the tests of this application
inside the browser, using the Jasmine Test Runner instead of karma.
It includes the tests discussed in this chapter and additional tests for you to explore.
This live example contains both application and test code.
It is large and can take several minutes to start. Please be patient.
<live-example plnkr="app-specs" embedded img="devguide/testing/app-specs-plunker.png"></live-example>
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#simple-component-test
:marked
# Test a component
:marked
The top of the screen displays application title, presented by the `BannerComponent` in `app/banner.component.ts`.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/banner.component.ts', '', 'app/banner.component.ts')(format='.')
:marked
`BannerComponent` has an inline template and an interpolation binding, about as simple as it gets.
Probably too simple to be worth testing in real life but perfect for a first encounter with the `TestBed`.
The corresponding `app/banner-component.spec.ts` sits in the same folder as the component,
for reasons explained [here](#q-spec-file-location);
Start with ES6 import statements to get access to symbols referenced in the spec.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/banner.component.spec.ts', 'imports', 'app/banner.component.spec.ts (imports)')(format='.')
:marked
Here's the setup for the tests followed by observations about the `beforeEach`:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/banner.component.spec.ts', 'setup', 'app/banner.component.spec.ts (imports)')(format='.')
:marked
`TestBed.configureTestingModule` takes an `@NgModule`-like metadata object.
This one simply declares the component to test, `BannerComponent`.
It lacks `imports` because (a) it extends the default test module configuration which
already has what `BannerComponent` needs
and (b) `BannerComponent` doesn't interact with any other components.
The configuration could have imported `AppModule` (which declares `BannerComponent`).
But that would lead to tons more configuration in order to support the other components within `AppModule`
that have nothing to do with `BannerComponent`.
`TestBed.createComponent` creates an instance of `BannerComponent` to test.
The method returns a `ComponentFixture`, a handle on the test environment surrounding the created component.
The fixture provides access to the component instance itself and
to the `DebugElement` which is a handle on the component's DOM element.
Query the `DebugElement` by CSS selector for the `<h1>` sub-element that holds the actual title.
### _createComponent_ closes configuration
`TestBed.createComponent` closes the current `TestBed` instance to further configuration.
You cannot call any more `TestBed` configuration methods, not `configureTestModule`
nor any of the `override...` methods. The `TestBed` throws an error if you try.
.alert.is-important
:marked
Do not configure the `TestBed` after calling `createComponent`.
:marked
### The tests
Jasmine runs this `beforeEach` before each test of which there are two
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/banner.component.spec.ts', 'tests', 'app/banner.component.spec.ts (tests)')(format='.')
:markdown
These tests ask the `DebugElement` for the native HTML element to satisfy their expectations.
a#fixture-detect-changes
:marked
### _detectChanges_: Angular change detection under test
Each test tells Angular when to perform change detection by calling `fixture.detectChanges()`.
The first test does so immediately, triggering data binding and propagation of the `title` property
to the DOM element.
The second test changes the component's `title` property _and only then_ calls `fixture.detectChanges()`;
the new value appears in the DOM element.
In production, change detection kicks in automatically
when Angular creates a component or the user enters a keystroke or
an asynchronous activity (e.g., AJAX) completes.
The `TestBed.createComponent` does _not_ trigger change detection.
The fixture does not automatically push the component's `title` property value into the data bound element,
a fact demonstrated in the following test:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/banner.component.spec.ts', 'test-w-o-detect-changes', 'app/banner.component.spec.ts (no detectChanges)')(format='.')
:marked
This behavior (or lack of it) is intentional.
It gives the tester an opportunity to investigate the state of
the component _before Angular initiates data binding or calls lifecycle hooks_.
a#automatic-change-detection
:marked
### Automatic change detection
Some testers prefer that the Angular test environment run change detection automatically.
That's possible by configuring the `TestBed` with the _AutoDetect_ provider:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/banner.component.spec.ts', 'auto-detect', 'app/banner.component.spec.ts (AutoDetect)')(format='.')
:marked
Here are three tests that illustrate how _auto-detect_ works.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/banner.component.spec.ts', 'auto-detect-tests', 'app/banner.component.spec.ts (AutoDetect Tests)')(format='.')
:marked
The first test shows the benefit of automatic change detection.
The second and third test remind us that Angular does _not_ know about changes to component property
values unless Angular itself (or some asynchronous process) makes the change.
This is as true in production as it is in test.
In production, external forces rarely change component properties like this,
whereas these kinds of probing changes are typical in unit tests.
The tester will have to call `fixture.detectChanges()` quite often
despite having opted into auto detect.
.alert.is-helpful
:marked
Rather than wonder when the test fixture will or won't perform change detection,
the samples in this chapter _always call_ `detectChanges()` _explicitly_.
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#component-with-dependency
:marked
# Test a component with a dependency
Components often have service dependencies.
The `WelcomeComponent` displays a welcome message to the logged in user.
It knows who the user is based on a property of the injected `UserService`:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/welcome.component.ts', '', 'app/welcome.component.ts')(format='.')
:marked
The `WelcomeComponent` has decision logic that interacts with the service;
such logic makes this component worth testing.
Here's the test module configuration for the spec file, `app/welcome.component.spec.ts`:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/welcome.component.spec.ts', 'config-test-module', 'app/welcome.component.spec.ts')(format='.')
:marked
This time, in addition to declaring the component under test,
the configurations sets the `providers` list with the dependent `UserService`.
This example configures the test module with a _fake_ `UserService`.
## Provide service fakes
A component under test doesn't have to be injected with real services.
In fact, it is usually better if they are fakes.
The purpose of the spec is to test the component, not the service,
and real services can be trouble.
Injecting the real `UserService` could be a nightmare.
The real service might try to ask the user for login credentials and
try to reach an authentication server.
These behaviors could be hard to intercept.
It is far easier to create and register a fake `UserService`.
There are many ways to fake a service.
This test suit supplies a minimal `UserService` that satisfies the needs of the `WelcomeComponent`
and its tests:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/welcome.component.spec.ts', 'fake-userservice')(format='.')
a#injected-service-reference
:marked
## Referencing injected services
The tests need access to the injected (fake) `UserService`.
You cannot reference the `fakeUserService` object provided to the test module.
**It does not work!**
Surprisingly, the instance actually injected into the component is _not the same_
as the provided `fakeUserService` object.
.alert.is-important
:marked
Always use an injector to get a reference to an injected service.
:marked
Where do you get the injector?
Angular has an hierarchical injection system.
In a test there can be injectors at multiple levels.
The current `TestBed` injector creates a top-level injector.
The `WelcomeComponent` injector is a child of that injector created specifically for the component.
You can get a `UserService` from the current `TestBed` injector by calling `TestBed.get`.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/welcome.component.spec.ts', 'inject-from-testbed', 'TestBed injector')(format='.')
.l-sub-section
:marked
The [inject](#inject) function is another way to inject one or more services into a test.
:marked
That happens to work for testing the `WelcomeComponent` because the `UserService` instance from the `TestBed`
is the same as the `UserService` instance injected into the component.
That won't always be the case.
Be absolutely sure to reference the service instance that the component is _actually receiving_,
Call `get` on the component's injector which is `fixture.debugElement.injector`:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/welcome.component.spec.ts', 'injected-service', 'Component\'s injector')(format='.')
.alert.is-important
:marked
Use the component's own injector to get the component's injected service.
a#welcome-spec-setup
:marked
Here's the complete, preferred `beforeEach`:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/welcome.component.spec.ts', 'setup', 'app/welcome.component.spec.ts')(format='.')
:marked
And here are some tests:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/welcome.component.spec.ts', 'tests', 'app/welcome.component.spec.ts')(format='.')
:marked
The first is a sanity test; it confirms that the fake `UserService` is working.
The remaining tests confirm the logic of the component when the service returns different values.
The second test validates the effect of changing the user name.
The third test checks that the component displays the proper message when there is no logged-in user.
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#component-with-async-service
:marked
# Test a component with an async service
Many services return values asynchronously.
Most data services make an HTTP request to a remote server and the response is necessarily asynchronous.
The "About" view in this sample displays Mark Twain quotes.
The `TwainComponent` handles the display, delegating the server request to the `TwainService`.
Both are in the `app/shared` folder because the author intends to display Twain quotes on other pages someday.
Here is the `TwainComponent`.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/shared/twain.component.ts', 'component', 'app/shared/twain.component.ts')(format='.')
:marked
The `TwainService` implementation is irrelevant at this point.
It is sufficient to see within `ngOnInit` that `twainService.getQuote` returns a promise which means it is asynchronous.
In general, tests should not make calls to remote servers.
They should fake such calls. The setup in this `app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts` shows one way to do that:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts', 'setup', 'app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts (setup)')(format='.')
a#service-spy
:marked
### Spying on the real service
This setup is similar to the [`welcome.component.spec` setup](#welcome-spec-setup).
But instead of creating a fake service object, it injects the _real_ service (see the test module `providers`) and
replaces the critical `getQuote` method with a Jasmine spy.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts', 'spy')(format='.')
:marked
The spy is designed such that any call to `getQuote` receives an immediately resolved promise with a test quote.
The spy bypasses the actual `getQuote` method and therefore will not contact the server.
.l-sub-section
:marked
Faking a service instance and spying on the real service are _both_ great options.
Pick the one that seems easiest for the current test suite. Don't be afraid to change your mind.
:marked
Here are the tests with commentary to follow:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts', 'tests', 'app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts (tests)')
:marked
### Synchronous tests
The first two tests are synchronous.
Neither test can prove that a value from the service will be displayed.
Thanks to the spy, the second test verifies that `getQuote` is called.
But the quote itself has not arrived, despite the fact that the spy returns a resolved promise.
This test must wait at least one full turn of the JavaScript engine, a least one "tick", before the
value becomes available. By that time, the test runner has moved on to the next test in the suite.
The test must become an "async test" ... like the third test
a#async-fn-in-it
:marked
## The _async_ function in _it_
Notice the `async` in the third test.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts', 'async-test', 'app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts (async test)')(format='.')
:marked
The `async` function is part of the _Angular TestBed_ feature set.
It _takes_ a parameterless function and _returns_ a parameterless function
which becomes the argument to the Jasmine `it` call.
The body of the `async` argument looks much like the body of a normal `it` argument.
There is nothing obviously asynchronous about it. For example, it doesn't return a promise.
The `async` function arranges for the tester's code to run in a special _async test zone_
that almost hides the mechanics of asynchronous execution.
Almost but not completely.
a#when-stable
:marked
## _whenStable_
The test must wait for the `getQuote` promise to resolve.
The `getQuote` promise promise resolves in the next turn of the JavaScript engine, thanks to the spy.
But a different test implementation of `getQuote` could take longer.
An integration test might call the _real_ `getQuote`, resulting in an XHR request
that took many seconds to respond.
This test has no direct access to the promise returned by the call to `testService.getQuote`
which is private and inaccessible inside `TwainComponent`.
Fortunately, the `getQuote` promise is accessible to the _async test zone_
which intercepts all promises issued within the _async_ method call.
The `ComponentFixture.whenStable` method returns its own promise which resolves when the `getQuote` promise completes.
In fact, the _whenStable_ promise resolves when _all pending asynchronous activities_ complete ... the definition of "stable".
Then the testing continues.
The test kicks off another round of change detection (`fixture.detechChanges`) which tells Angular to update the DOM with the quote.
The `getQuote` helper method extracts the display element text and the expectation confirms that the text matches the test quote.
a#fakeAsync
a#fake-async
:marked
## The _fakeAsync_ function
The fourth test verifies the same component behavior in a different way.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts', 'fake-async-test', 'app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts (fakeAsync test)')(format='.')
:marked
Notice that `fakeAsync` replaces `async` as the `it` argument.
The `fakeAsync` function is also part of the _Angular TestBed_ feature set.
Like `async`, it too _takes_ a parameterless function and _returns_ a parameterless function
which becomes the argument to the Jasmine `it` call.
The `async` function arranges for the tester's code to run in a special _fakeAsync test zone_.
The key advantage of `fakeAsync` is that the test body looks entirely synchronous.
There are no promises at all.
No `then(...)` chains to disrupt the visible flow of control.
.l-sub-section
:marked
There are limitations. For example, you cannot make an XHR call from within a `fakeAsync`.
:marked
a#tick
a#tick-first-look
:marked
## The _tick_ function
Compare the third and fourth tests. Notice that `fixture.whenStable` is gone, replaced by `tick()`.
The `tick` function is a part of the _Angular TestBed_ feature set and a companion to `fakeAsync`.
It can only be called within a `fakeAsync` body.
Calling `tick()` simulates the passage of time until all pending asynchronous activities complete,
including the resolution of the `getQuote` promise in this test case.
It returns nothing. There is no promise to wait for.
Proceed with the same test code as formerly appeared within the `whenStable.then()` callback.
Even this simple example is easier to read than the third test.
To more fully appreciate the improvement, imagine a succession of asynchronous operations,
chained in a long sequence of promise callbacks.
a#jasmine-done
:marked
## _jasmine.done_
While `fakeAsync` and even `async` function greatly simplify Angular asynchronous testing,
you can still fallback to the traditional Jasmine asynchronous testing technique.
You can still pass `it` a function that takes a
[`done` callback](http://jasmine.github.io/2.0/introduction.html#section-Asynchronous_Support).
Now you are responsible for chaining promises, handling errors, and calling `done` at the appropriate moment.
Here is a `done` version of the previous two tests:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts', 'done-test', 'app/shared/twain.component.spec.ts (done test)')(format='.')
:marked
Although we have no direct access to the `getQuote` promise inside `TwainComponent`,
the spy does and that makes it possible to wait for `getQuote` to finish.
The `jasmine.done` technique, while discouraged, may become necessary when neither `async` nor `fakeAsync`
can tolerate a particular asynchronous activity. That's rare but it happens.
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#component-with-external-template
:marked
# Test a component with an external template
The `TestBed.createComponent` is a synchronous method.
It assumes that everything it could need is already in memory.
That has been true so far.
Each tested component's `@Component` metadata has a `template` property specifying an _inline templates_.
Neither component had a `styleUrls` property.
Everything necessary to compile them was in memory at test runtime.
The `DashboardHeroComponent` is different.
It has an external template and external css file, specified in `templateUrl` and `styleUrls` properties.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.ts', 'component', 'app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.ts (component)')(format='.')
:marked
The compiler must read these files from a file system before it can create a component instance.
The `TestBed.compileComponents` method asynchronously compiles all the components configured in its
current test module. After it completes, external templates and css files, have been "inlined"
and `TestBed.createComponent` can do its job synchronously.
.l-sub-section
:marked
WebPack developers need not call `compileComponents` because it inlines templates and css
as part of the automated build process that precedes running the test.
:marked
The `app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts` demonstrates the pre-compilation process:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts', 'compile-components', 'app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts (compileComponents)')(format='.')
a#async-fn-in-before-each
:marked
## The _async_ function in _beforeEach_
Notice the `async` call in the `beforeEach`.
The `async` function is part of the _Angular TestBed_ feature set.
It _takes_ a parameterless function and _returns_ a parameterless function
which becomes the argument to the Jasmine `beforeEach` call.
The body of the `async` argument looks much like the body of a normal `beforEach` argument.
There is nothing obviously asynchronous about it. For example, it doesn't return a promise.
The `async` function arranges for the tester's code to run in a special _async test zone_
that hides the mechanics of asynchronous execution.
a#compile-components
:marked
## _compileComponents_
In this example, `Testbed.compileComponents` compiles one component, the `DashboardComponent`.
It's the only declared component in this test module.
Tests later in this chapter have more declared components and some of them import application
modules that declare yet more components.
Some or all of these components could have external templates and css files.
`TestBed.compileComponents` compiles them all asynchonously at one time.
The `compileComponents` method returns a promise so you can perform additional tasks _after_ it finishes.
### _compileComponents_ closes configuration
After `compileComponents` runs, the current `TestBed` instance is closed to further configuration.
You cannot call any more `TestBed` configuration methods, not `configureTestModule`
nor any of the `override...` methods. The `TestBed` throws an error if you try.
.alert.is-important
:marked
Do not configure the `TestBed` after calling `compileComponents`.
Make `compileComponents` the last step
before calling `TestBed.createInstance` to instantiate the test component.
:marked
The `DashboardHeroComponent` spec follows the asynchonous `beforeEach` with a
_synchronous_ `beforeEach` that completes the setup steps and runs tests ... as described in the next section.
.l-hr
a#component-with-inputs-outputs
:marked
# Test a component with inputs and outputs
A component with inputs and outputs typically appears inside the view template of a host component.
The host uses a property binding to set the input property and uses an event binding to
listen to events raised by the output property.
The testing goal is to verify that such bindings work as expected.
The tests should set input values and listen for output events.
The `DashboardHeroComponent` is tiny example of a component in this role.
It displays an individual heroe provided by the `DashboardComponent`.
Clicking that hero tells the the `DashboardComponent` that the user has selected the hero.
The `DashboardHeroComponent` is embedded in the `DashboardComponent` template like this:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard.component.html', 'dashboard-hero', 'app/dashboard/dashboard.component.html (excerpt)')(format='.')
:marked
The `DashboardHeroComponent` appears in an `*ngFor` repeater which sets each component's `hero` input property
to the iteration value and listens for the components `selected` event.
Here's the component's definition again:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.ts', 'component', 'app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.ts (component)')(format='.')
:marked
While testing a component this simple has little intrinsic value, it's worth knowing how.
Three approaches come to mind:
1. Test it as used by `DashboardComponent`
1. Test it as a stand-alone component
1. Test it as used by a substitute for `DashboardComponent`
A quick look at the `DashboardComponent` constructor discourages the first approach:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard.component.ts', 'ctor', 'app/dashboard/dashboard.component.ts (constructor)')(format='.')
:marked
The `DashboardComponent` depends upon the Angular router and the `HeroService`.
You'd probably have to fake them both and that's a lot of work. The router is particularly challenging (see below).
The immediate goal is to test the `DashboardHeroComponent`, not the `DashboardComponent`, and there's no need
to work hard unnecessarily. Let's try the second and third options.
## Test _DashboardHeroComponent_ stand-alone
Here's the spec file setup.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts', 'setup', 'app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts (setup)')(format='.')
:marked
The async `beforeEach` was discussed [above](#component-with-external-template).
Having compiled the components asynchronously with `compileComponents`, the rest of the setup
proceeds _synchronously_ in a _second_ `beforeEach`, using the basic techniques described [earlier](#simple-component-test).
Note how the setup code assigns a test hero (`expectedHero`) to the component's `hero` property, emulating
the way the `DashboardComponent` would set it via the property binding in its repeater.
The first test follows:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts', 'name-test', 'app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts (name test)')(format='.')
:marked
It verifies that the hero name is propagated through to template with a binding.
There's a twist. The template passes the hero name through the Angular `UpperCasePipe` so the
test must match the element value with the uppercased name:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.html')(format='.')
:marked
.alert.is-helpful
:marked
This small test demonstrates how Angular tests can verify a component's visual representation
&mdash; something not possible with [isolated unit tests](#isolated-component-tests) &mdash;
at low cost and without resorting to much slower and more complicated end-to-end tests.
:marked
The second test verifies click behavior. Clicking the hero should rais a `selected` event that the
host component (`DashboardComponent` presumably) can hear:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts', 'click-test', 'app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts (click test)')(format='.')
:marked
The component exposes an `EventEmitter` property. The test subscribes to it just as the host component would do.
The Angular `DebugElement.triggerEventHandler` lets the test raise _any data-bound event_.
In this example, the component's template binds to the hero `<div>`.
The test has a reference to that `<div>` in `heroEl` so triggering the `heroEl` click event should cause Angular
to call `DashboardHeroComponent.click`.
If the component behaves as expected, its `selected` property should emit the `hero` object,
the test detects that emission through its subscription, and the test will pass.
.l-hr
a#component-inside-test-host
:marked
# Test a component inside a test host component
In the previous approach the tests themselves played the role of the host `DashboardComponent`.
A nagging suspicion remains.
Will the `DashboardHeroComponent` work properly when properly data-bound to a host component?
Testing with the actual `DashboardComponent` host is doable but seems more trouble than its worth.
It's easier to emulate the `DashboardComponent` host with a _test host_ like this one:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts', 'test-host', 'app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts (test host)')(format='.')
:marked
The test host binds to `DashboardHeroComponent` as the `DashboardComponent` would but without
the distraction of the `Router`, the `HeroService` or even the `*ngFor` repeater.
The test host sets the component's `hero` input property with its test hero.
It binds the component's `selected` event with its `onSelected` handler that records the emitted hero
in its `selectedHero` property. Later the tests check that property to verify that the
`DashboardHeroComponent.selected` event really did emit the right hero.
The setup for the test-host tests is similar to the setup for the stand-alone tests:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts', 'test-host-setup', 'app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts (test host setup)')(format='.')
:marked
This test module configuration shows two important differences:
1. It _declares_ both the `DashboardHeroComponent` and the `TestHostComponent`.
1. It _creates_ the `TestHostComponent` instead of the `DashboardHeroComponent`.
The `fixture` returned by `createComponent` holds an instance of `TestHostComponent` instead of an instance of `DashboardHeroComponent`.
Of course creating the `TestHostComponent` has the side-effect of creating a `DashboardHeroComponent`
because the latter appears within the template of the former.
The query for the hero element (`heroEl`) still finds it in the test DOM
albeit at greater depth in the element tree than before.
The tests themselves are almost identical to the stand-alone version
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts', 'test-host-tests', 'app/dashboard/dashboard-hero.component.spec.ts (test-host)')(format='.')
:marked
Only the selected event test differs. It confirms that the selected `DashboardHeroComponent` hero
really does find its way up through the event binding to the host component.
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#routed-component
:marked
# Test a routed component
Testing the actual `DashboardComponent` seemed daunting because it injects the `Router`.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard.component.ts', 'ctor', 'app/dashboard/dashboard.component.ts (constructor)')(format='.')
:marked
It also injects the `HeroService` but faking that is a [familiar story](#component-with-async-servic).
The `Router` has a complicated API and is entwined with other services and application pre-conditions.
Fortunately, the `DashboardComponent` isn't doing much with the `Router`
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard.component.ts', 'goto-detail', 'app/dashboard/dashboard.component.ts (goToDetail)')(format='.')
:marked
This is often the case.
As a rule you test the component, not the router,
and care only if the component navigates with the right address under the given conditions.
Faking the router is an easy option. This should do the trick:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard.component.spec.ts', 'fake-router', 'app/dashboard/dashboard.component.spec.ts (fakeRouter)')(format='.')
:marked
Now we setup the test module with the `fakeRouter` and a fake `HeroService` and
create a test instance of the `DashbaordComponent` for subsequent testing.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard.component.spec.ts', 'compile-and-create-body', 'app/dashboard/dashboard.component.spec.ts (compile and create)')(format='.')
:marked
The following test clicks the displayed hero and confirms (with the help of a spy) that `Router.navigateByUrl` is called with the expected url.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard.component.spec.ts', 'navigate-test', 'app/dashboard/dashboard.component.spec.ts (navigate test)')(format='.')
a#inject
:marked
## The _inject_ function
Notice the `inject` function in the second `it` argument.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/dashboard/dashboard.component.spec.ts', 'inject')(format='.')
:marked
The `inject` function is part of the _Angular TestBed_ feature set.
It injects services into the test function where you can alter, spy on, and manipulate them.
The `inject` function has two parameters
1. an array of Angular dependency injection tokens
1. a test function whose parameters correspond exactly to each item in the injection token array
.callout.is-important
header inject uses the TestBed Injector
:marked
The `inject` function uses the current `TestBed` injector and can only return services provided at that level.
It does not return services from component providers.
:marked
This example injects the `Router` from the current `TestBed` injector.
That's fine for this test because the `Router` is (and must be) provided by the application root injector.
If you need a service provided by the component's _own_ injector, call `fixture.debugElement.injector.get` instead:
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/welcome.component.spec.ts', 'injected-service', 'Component\'s injector')(format='.')
.alert.is-important
:marked
Use the component's own injector to get the service actually injected into the component.
:marked
The `inject` function closes the current `TestBed` instance to further configuration.
You cannot call any more `TestBed` configuration methods, not `configureTestModule`
nor any of the `override...` methods. The `TestBed` throws an error if you try.
.alert.is-important
:marked
Do not configure the `TestBed` after calling `inject`.
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#isolated-tests
a#testing-without-atp
:marked
# Testing without the Angular Testing Platform
Testing applications with the help of the Angular Testing Platform (ATP) is the main focus of this chapter.
However, it's often more productive to explore the inner logic of application classes
with _isolated_ unit tests that don't use the ATP.
Such tests are often smaller, easier to read,
and easier to write and maintain.
They don't
* import from the Angular test libraries
* configure a module
* prepare dependency injection `providers`
* call `inject` or `async` or `fakeAsync`
They do
* exhibit standard, Angular-agnostic testing techniques
* create instances directly with `new`
* use stubs, spys, and mocks to fake dependencies.
.callout.is-important
header Write both kinds of tests
:marked
Good developers write both kinds of tests for the same application part, often in the same spec file.
Write simple _isolated_ unit tests to validate the part in isolation.
Write _Angular_ tests to validate the part as it interacts with Angular,
updates the DOM, and collaborates with the rest of the application.
:marked
## Services
Services are good candidates for vanilla unit testing.
Here are some synchronous and asynchronous unit tests of the `FancyService`
written without assistance from Angular Testing Platform.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/bag/bag.no-testbed.spec.ts', 'FancyService', 'app/bag/bag.no-testbed.spec.ts')
:marked
A rough line count suggests that these tests are about 25% smaller than equivalent ATP tests.
That's telling but not decisive.
The benefit comes from reduced setup and code complexity.
Compare these equivalent tests of `FancyService.getTimeoutValue`.
+makeTabs(
`testing/ts/app/bag/bag.no-testbed.spec.ts, testing/ts/app/bag/bag.spec.ts`,
'getTimeoutValue, getTimeoutValue',
`app/bag/bag.no-testbed.spec.ts, app/bag/bag.spec.ts (with ATP)`)
:marked
They have about the same line-count.
The ATP version has more moving parts, including a couple of helper functions (`async` and `inject`).
Both work and it's not much of an issue if you're using the Angular Testing Platform nearby for other reasons.
On the other hand, why burden simple service tests with ATP complexity?
Pick the approach that suits you.
### Services with dependencies
Services often depend on other services that Angular injects into the constructor.
You can test these services _without_ the testbed.
In many cases, it's easier to create and _inject_ dependencies by hand.
The `DependentService` is a simple example
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/bag/bag.ts', 'DependentService', 'app/bag/bag.ts')(format='.')
:marked
It delegates it's only method, `getValue`, to the injected `FancyService`.
Here are several ways to test it.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/bag/bag.no-testbed.spec.ts', 'DependentService', 'app/bag/bag.no-testbed.spec.ts')
:marked
The first test creates a `FancyService` with `new` and passes it to the `DependentService` constructor.
It's rarely that simple. The injected service can be difficult to create or control.
You can mock the dependency, or use a fake value, or stub the pertinent service method
with a substitute method that is easy to control.
These _isolated_ unit testing techniques are great for exploring the inner logic of a service or its
simple integration with a component class.
Use the Angular Testing Platform when writing tests that validate how a service interacts with components
_within the Angular runtime environment_.
## Pipes
Pipes are easy to test without the Angular Testing Platform (ATP).
A pipe class has one method, `transform`, that turns an input to an output.
The `transform` implementation rarely interacts with the DOM.
Most pipes have no dependence on Angular other than the `@Pipe`
metadata and an interface.
Consider a `TitleCasePipe` that capitalizes the first letter of each word.
Here's a naive implementation implemented with a regular expression.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/shared/title-case.pipe.ts', '', 'app/shared/title-case.pipe.ts')(format='.')
:marked
Anything that uses a regular expression is worth testing thoroughly.
Use simple Jasmine to explore the expected cases and the edge cases.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/shared/title-case.pipe.spec.ts', 'excerpt', 'app/shared/title-case.pipe.spec.ts')
:marked
## Write ATP tests too
These are tests of the pipe _in isolation_.
They can't tell if the `TitleCasePipe` is working properly
as applied in the application components.
Consider adding ATP component tests such as this one.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/hero/hero-detail.component.spec.ts', 'title-case-pipe', 'app/hero/hero-detail.component.spec.ts (pipe test)')
a#isolated-component-tests
:marked
## Components
Component tests typically examine how a component class interacts with its own template or with collaborating components.
The Angular Testing Platform is specifically designed to facilitate such tests.
Consider this `ButtonComp` component.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/bag/bag.ts', 'ButtonComp', 'app/bag/bag.ts (ButtonComp)')(format='.')
:marked
The following ATP test demonstrates that clicking a button in the template leads
to an update of the on-screen message.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/bag/bag.spec.ts', 'ButtonComp', 'app/bag/bag.spec.ts (ButtonComp)')(format='.')
:marked
The assertions verify the data binding flow from one HTML control (the `<button>`) to the component and
from the component back to a _different_ HTML control (the `<span>`).
A passing test means the component and its template are wired up correctly.
Tests _without_ the ATP can more rapidly probe a component at its API boundary,
exploring many more conditions with less effort.
Here are a set of _unit tests_ that verify the component's outputs in the face of a variety of
component inputs.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/bag/bag.no-testbed.spec.ts', 'ButtonComp', 'app/bag/bag.no-testbed.spec.ts (ButtonComp)')(format='.')
:marked
Isolated component tests offer a lot of test coverage with less code and almost no setup.
This advantage is even more pronounced with complex components that
require meticulous preparation with the Angular Testing Platform.
On the other hand, isolated unit tests can't confirm that the `ButtonComp` is
properly bound to its template or even data bound at all.
Use ATP tests for that.
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#atp-api
:marked
# Angular Testing Platform APIs
This section takes inventory of the most useful _Angular Testing Platform_ features and summarizes what they do.
The _Angular Testing Platform_ consists of the `TestBed` and `ComponentFixture` classes plus a handful of functions in the test environment.
The [_TestBed_](#testbed-api-summary) and [_ComponentFixture_](#componentfixture-api-summary) classes are covered separately.
Here's a summary of the functions, in order of likely utility:
table
tr
th Function
th Description
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>async</code>
td
:marked
Runs the body of a test (`it`) or setup (`beforeEach`) function within a special _async test zone_.
See [here](#async-fn-in-it) and [here](#async-fn-in-before-each).
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>fakeAsync</code>
td
:marked
Runs the body of a test (`it`) within a special _fakeAsync test zone_, enabling
a linear control flow coding style. See [above](#fake-async).
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>tick</code>
td
:marked
Simulates the passage of time and the completion of pending asynchronous activities
by flushing timer and micro-task queues in the _fakeAsync test zone_.
Accepts an optional argument that moves the virtual clock forward
the specified number of milliseconds,
clearing asynchronous activities scheduled within that timeframe.
See [above](#tick).
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>inject</code>
td
:marked
Injects one or more services from the current `TestBed` injector into a test function.
See [above](#inject).
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>discardPeriodicTasks</code>
td
:marked
When a `fakeAsync` test ends with pending timer event tasks (queued `setTimeOut` and `setInterval` callbacks),
the test fails with a clear error message.
In general, a test should end with no queued tasks.
When pending timer tasks are expected, call `discardPeriodicTasks` to flush the queues
and avoid the error.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>flushMicrotasks</code>
td
:marked
When a `fakeAsync` test ends with pending "microtasks" such as unresolved promises,
the test fails with a clear error message.
In general, a test should wait for microtasks to finish.
When pending microtasks are expected, call `discardPeriodicTasks` to flush the queues
and avoid the error.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>ComponentFixtureAutoDetect</code>
td
:marked
A provider token for setting the default _auto-changeDetect_ from its default of `false`.
See [automatic change detection](#automatic-change-detection)
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>getTestBed</code>
td
:marked
Gets the current instance of the `TestBed`.
Usually unnecessary because the static class methods of the `TestBed` class are typically sufficient.
The `TestBed` instance exposes a few rarely used members that are not available as
static methods.
.l-hr
a#testbed-class-summary
:marked
# _TestBed_ Class Summary
The `TestBed` class API is quite large and can be overwhelming until you've explored it first
a little at a time. Read the early part of this chapter first
to get the basics before trying to absorb the full API.
.alert.is-important
:marked
The _TestBed_ is officially _experimental_ and thus subject to change.
Consult the [API reference](../api/core/testing/index/TestBed-class.html) for the latest status.
:marked
The module definition passed to `configureTestingModule`,
is a subset of the `@NgModule` metadata properties.
code-example(format="." language="javascript").
type TestModuleMetadata = {
providers?: any[];
declarations?: any[];
imports?: any[];
schemas?: Array&lt;SchemaMetadata | any[]&gt;;
};
:marked
Each overide method takes a `MetadataOverride<T>` where `T` is the kind of metadata
appropriate to the method, the parameter of an `@NgModule`, `@Component`, `@Directive`, or `@Pipe`.
code-example(format="." language="javascript").
type MetadataOverride<T> = {
add?: T;
remove?: T;
set?: T;
};
:marked
a#testbed-methods
:marked
The `TestBed` API consists of static class methods that either update or reference a _global_ instance of the`TestBed`.
Internally, all static methods cover methods of the current runtime `TestBed` instance that is also returned by the `getTestBed()` function.
Call `TestBed` methods _within_ a `BeforeEach()` to ensure a fresh start before each individual test.
Here are the most important static methods, in order of likely utility.
table
tr
th Methods
th Description
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>configureTestingModule</code>
td
:marked
The testing shims (`karma-test-shim`, `browser-test-shim`)
establish the [initial test environment](#a#testbed-initTestEnvironment) and a default test module.
The default test module is configured with basic declaratives and some Angular service substitutes (e.g. `DebugDomRender`)
that every tester needs.
Call `configureTestingModule` to refine the test module configuration for a particular set of tests
by adding and removing imports, declarations (of components, directives, and pipes), and providers.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>compileComponents</code>
td
:marked
Compile the test module asynchronously after you've finished configuring it.
You **must** call this method if _any_ of the test module components have a `templateUrl`
or `styleUrls` because fetching component template and style files is necessarily asynchronous.
See [above](#compile-components).
Once called, the `TestBed` configuration is frozen for the duration of the current spec.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>createComponent<T></code>
td
:marked
Create an instance of a component of type `T` based on the current `TestBed` configuration.
Once called, the `TestBed` configuration is frozen for the duration of the current spec.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>overrideModule</code>
td
:marked
Replace metadata for the given `NgModule`. Recall that modules can import other modules.
The `overrideModule` method can reach deeply into the current test module to
modify one of these inner modules.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>overrideComponent</code>
td
:marked
Replace metadata for the given component class which could be nested deeply
within an inner module.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>overrideDirective</code>
td
:marked
Replace metadata for the given directive class which could be nested deeply
within an inner module.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>overridePipe</code>
td
:marked
Replace metadata for the given pipe class which could be nested deeply
within an inner module.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top").
<a id="testbed-get"></a>
<code>get</code>
td
:marked
Retrieve a service from the current `TestBed` injector.
The `inject` function is often adequate for this purpose.
But `inject` throws an error if it can't provide the service.
What if the service is optional?
The `TestBed.get` method takes an optional second parameter,
the object to return if Angular can't find the provider
(`null` in this example):
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/bag/bag.spec.ts', 'testbed-get')(format=".")
:marked
Once called, the `TestBed` configuration is frozen for the duration of the current spec.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top").
<a id="testbed-initTestEnvironment"></a>
<code>initTestEnvironment</code>
td
:marked
Initialize the testing environment for the entire test run.
The testing shims (`karma-test-shim`, `browser-test-shim`) call it for you
so there is rarely a reason for you to call it yourself.
This method may be called _exactly once_. Call `resetTestEnvironment` first
if you absolutely need to change this default in the middle of your test run.
Specify the Angular compiler factory, a `PlatformRef`, and a default Angular test module.
Test modules and platforms for individual platforms are available from
`angular2/platform/testing/<platform_name>`.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>resetTestEnvironment</code>
td
:marked
Reset the initial test environment including the default test module.
:marked
A few of the `TestBed` instance methods are not covered by static `TestBed` _class_ methods.
These are rarely needed.
a#componentfixture-api-summary
:marked
## The _ComponentFixture_
The `TestBed.createComponent<T>`
creates an instance of the component `T`
and returns a strongly typed `ComponentFixture` for that component.
The `ComponentFixture` properties and methods provide access to the component,
its DOM representation, and aspects of its Angular environment.
a#componentfixture-properties
:marked
### _ComponentFixture_ properties
Here are the most important properties for testers, in order of likely utility.
table
tr
th Properties
th Description
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>componentInstance</code>
td
:marked
The instance of the component class created by `TestBed.createComponent`.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>debugElement</code>
td
:marked
The `DebugElement` associated with the root element of the component.
The `debugElement` provides insight into the component and its DOM element during test and debugging.
It's a critical property for testers. The most interesting members are covered [below](#debugelement-details).
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>nativeElement</code>
td
:marked
The native DOM element at the root of the component.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>changeDetectorRef</code>
td
:marked
The `ChangeDetectorRef` for the component.
The `ChangeDetectorRef` is most valuable when testing a
component that has the `ChangeDetectionStrategy.OnPush`
or the component's change detection is under your programmatic control.
a#componentfixture-methods
:marked
### _ComponentFixture_ methods
The _fixture_ methods cause Angular to perform certain tasks to the component tree.
Call these method to trigger Angular behavior in response to simulated user action.
Here are the most useful methods for testers.
table
tr
th Methods
th Description
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>detectChanges</code>
td
:marked
Trigger a change detection cycle for the component.
Call it to initialize the component (it calls `ngOnInit`) and after your
test code change the component's data bound property values.
Angular can't see that you've changed `personComponent.name` and won't update the `name`
binding until you call `detectChanges`.
Runs `checkNoChanges`afterwards to confirm there are no circular updates unless
called as `detectChanges(false)`;
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>autoDetectChanges</code>
td
:marked
Set whether the fixture should try to detect changes automatically.
When autodetect is true, the test fixture listens for _zone_ events and calls `detectChanges`.
You probably still have to call `fixture.detectChanges` to trigger data binding updates
when your test code modifies component property values directly.
The default is `false` and testers who prefer fine control over test behavior
tend to keep it `false`.
Calls `detectChanges` immediately which detects existing changes
and will trigger `ngOnInit` if the component has not yet been initialized.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>checkNoChanges</code>
td
:marked
Do a change detection run to make sure there are no pending changes.
Throws an exceptions if there are.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>isStable</code>
td
:marked
Return `true` if the fixture is currently _stable_.
Returns `false` if there are async tasks that have not completed.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>whenStable</code>
td
:marked
Returns a promise that resolves when the fixture is stable.
Hook that promise to resume testing after completion of asynchronous activity or
asynchronous change detection.
See [above](#when-stable)
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>destroy</code>
td
:marked
Trigger component destruction.
a#debugelement-details
:marked
### _DebugElement_
The `DebugElement` provides crucial insights into the component's DOM representation.
From the test root component's `DebugElement`, returned by `fixture.debugElement`,
you can walk (and query) the fixture's entire element and component sub-trees.
.alert.is-important
:marked
The _DebugElement_ is officially _experimental_ and thus subject to change.
Consult the [API reference](../api/core/index/DebugElement-class.html) for the latest status.
:marked
Here are the most useful `DebugElement` members for testers in approximate order of utility.
table
tr
th Member
th Description
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>nativeElement</code>
td
:marked
The corresponding DOM element in the browser (null for WebWorkers).
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>query</code>
td
:marked
Calling `query(predicate: Predicate<DebugElement>)` returns the first `DebugElement`
that matches the [predicate](#query-predicate) at any depth in the subtree.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>queryAll</code>
td
:marked
Calling `queryAll(predicate: Predicate<DebugElement>)` returns all `DebugElements`
that matches the [predicate](#query-predicate) at any depth in subtree.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>injector</code>
td
:marked
The host dependency injector.
For example, the root element's component instance injector.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>componentInstance</code>
td
:marked
The element's own component instance, if it has one.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>context</code>
td
:marked
An object that provides parent context for this element.
Often an ancestor component instance that governs this element.
When an element is repeated with in `*ngFor`, the context is an `NgForRow` whose `$implicit`
property is the value of the row instance value.
For example, the `hero` in `*ngFor="let hero of heroes"`.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>children</code>
td
:marked
The immediate `DebugElement` children. Walk the tree by descending through `children`.
.l-sub-section
:marked
`DebugElement` also has `childNodes`, a list of `DebugNode` objects.
`DebugElement` derives from `DebugNode` objects and there are often
more nodes than elements. Testers can usually ignore plain nodes.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>parent</code>
td
:marked
The `DebugElement` parent. Null if this is the root element.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>name</code>
td
:marked
The element tag name, if it is an element.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>triggerEventHandler</code>
td
:marked
Triggers the event by its name if there is a corresponding listener
in the element's `listeners` collection.
If the event lacks a listner or there's some other problem,
consider calling `nativeElement.dispatchEvent(eventObject)`
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>listeners</code>
td
:marked
The callbacks attached to the component's `@Output` properties and/or the element's event properties.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>providerTokens</code>
td
:marked
This component's injector lookup tokens.
Includes the component itself plus the tokens that the component lists in its `providers` metadata.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>source</code>
td
:marked
Where to find this element in the source component template.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>references</code>
td
:marked
Dictionary of objects associated with template local variables (e.g. `#foo`),
keyed by the local variable name.
a#query-predicate
:marked
The `DebugElement.query(predicate)` and `DebugElement.queryAll(predicate)` methods take a
predicate that filters the source element's subtree for matching `DebugElement`.
The predicate is any method that takes a `DebugElement` and returns a _truthy_ value.
The following example finds all `DebugElements` with a reference to a template local variable named "content":
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/bag/bag.spec.ts', 'custom-predicate')(format=".")
:marked
The Angular `By` class has three static methods for common predicates:
* `By.all` - return all elements
* `By.css(selector)` - return elements with matching CSS selectors.
* `By.directive(directive)` - return elements that Angular matched to an instance of the directive class.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/hero/hero-list.component.spec.ts', 'by', 'app/hero/hero-list.component.spec.ts')(format=".")
a#renderer-tests
:marked
Many custom application directives inject the `Renderer` and call one of its `set...` methods.
The test environment substitutes the `DebugDomRender` for the runtime `Renderer`.
The `DebugDomRender` updates additional dictionary properties of the `DebugElement`
when something calls a `set...` method.
These dictionary properties are primarily of interest to authors of Angular DOM inspection tools
but they may provide useful insights to testers as well.
table
tr
th Dictionary
th Description
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>properties</code>
td
:marked
Updated by `Renderer.setElementProperty`.
Many Angular directives call it, including `NgModel`.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>attributes</code>
td
:marked
Updated by `Renderer.setElementAttribute`.
Angular `[attribute]` bindings call it.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>classes</code>
td
:marked
Updated by `Renderer.setElementClass`.
Angular `[class]` bindings call it.
tr
td(style="vertical-align: top") <code>styles</code>
td
:marked
Updated by `Renderer.setElementStyle`.
Angular `[style]` bindings call it.
:marked
Here's an example of `Renderer` tests from the <live-example plnkr="bag-specs">live "Specs Bag" sample</live-example>.
+makeExample('testing/ts/app/bag/bag.spec.ts', 'debug-dom-renderer')(format=".")
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l.hr
a#faq
.l-main-section
:marked
## FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
//
:marked
General
* [When are end-to-end (e2e) tests a good choice?](#q-when-e2e)
* [When to use the _TestBed_?](#q-why-testbed)
* [When to write vanilla tests without the _TestBed_?](#q-when-no-testbed)
* [When can I skip _TestBed.compileComponents_?](#q-when-no-compile-components)
* [Why must _TestBed.compileComponents_ be called last?](#q-why-compile-components-is-last)
* [Why must _inject_ be called last?](#q-why-last-last)
* [What's the difference between _async_ and _fakeAsync_?](#q-async-vs-fake-async)
* [What's the difference between _whenStable_ and _tick_?](#q-when-stable-vs-tick)
* [How do I get something from the component's injector?](#q-component-injector)
* [Why do feature modules make testing easier?](#q-why-feature-modules)
* [When should I prefer the _DynamicTestModule_?](#q-dynamic-test-module)
* [How do I know if an injected service method was called?](#q-spy-on-service)
* [When must I call _detectChanges_ and why?](#q-detect-changes)
* [What's the difference between _triggerEventHandler_ and _dispatchEvent_?](#q-trigger-event-handler-vs-dispatch-event)
* [How do I find an element by directive?](#q-by-directive)
* [How do I extend Jasmine matchers?](#q-jasmine-matchers)
* [Why would I add a test folder and how?](#q-test-folder)
* [Why put specs next to the things they test?](#q-spec-file-location)
* [When would I put specs in a test folder?](#q-specs-in-test-folder)
* [How do I use the Jasmine HTML TestRunner in the browser?](#q-jasmine-browser-test-runner)
Resources
* [Where can I learn more about unit testing in JavaScript?](#q-js-unit-testing-resources)
* [Where can I learn more about testing with Jasmine?](#q-jasmine-resources)
* [Where can I learn more about testing with karma?](#q-karma-resources)
* [Where can I learn more about e2e testing with protractor?](#q-protractor-resources)
a(href="#top").to-top Back to top
.l-hr
a#q-spec-file-location
:marked
### Why put specs next to the things they test?
We recommend putting unit test spec files in the same folder
as the application source code files that they test because
- Such tests are easy to find
- You see at a glance if a part of our application lacks tests.
- Nearby tests can reveal how a part works in context.
- When you move the source (inevitable), you remember to move the test.
- When you rename the source file (inevitable), you remember to rename the test file.
.l-hr
a#q-specs-in-test-folder
:marked
### When would I put specs in a test folder?
Application integration specs can test the interactions of multiple parts
spread across folders and modules.
They don't really belong to part in particular so they don't have a
natural home next to any one file.
It's often better to create an appropriate folder for them in the `tests` directory.
Of course specs that test the test helpers belong in the `test` folder,
next to their corresponding helper files.