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Objects and merge modules are quite similar in functionality. Both can be inserted into an InstallShield project. They both are essentially self-contained projects that install files, create registry entries, and perform other actions when needed.

An easy way to differentiate between objects and merge modules in InstallShield is by their icons.

A merge module looks like:

Merge module

While an Object icon looks somewhat different:

InstallShield icon

InstallShield

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Object icon

There are two main differences between objects and merge modules:
1. Objects contain wizards. When an Object is selected for insertion into an InstallShield project, a wizard appears that allows you to configure the Object. Merge modules do not contain wizards and do not require configuration to work properly.
2. Merge modules can be created using the “Blank Merge Module Project” option under “Create a New project” in the InstallShield Today view. You can create custom merge modules to insert into their projects, but custom objects cannot be created.

What differences have you discovered?

 

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