DataTemplate vs. ControlTemplate

Question

Hello,

I'm not so sure that I understand the difference between a DataTemplate and ControlTemplate.

I realize that the DataTemplate renders a 'type' of data.  But then why is ColumnHeaderTemplate defined using a DataTemplate resource?

Thanks

Houman

Answer 1

They're mostly the same, getting most of their behavior from the base FrameworkTemplate class.  The primary difference is that ControlTemplate has a TargetType property and DataTemplate has a DataType property.

Another difference is that the DataTemplateSelector can be used to choose a DataTemplate at runtime.  So, for example, the ColumnHeaderTemplate that you mentioned has a companion ColumnHeaderTemplateSelector property.

 

Answer 2

Thanks Mike,

I'm still trying to figure out when to use what...but it is getting easier...

Houman

Answer 3

Wow I've never thought about it this way. But plain and simple, whenever you want a control template to be assigned dynamically, you need DataTemplates along with a DataTemplateSelector.

For example, my grid control uses a datatemplate selector that looks at the type of cell (Text, Image, DropDown, CheckBox) and assigns the appropriate DataTemplate.

In cases where the control will never change, just use a controltemplate and be done with it

Answer 4

Thanks Mike, that makes sense.

Is there a good example out there on dataTemplateSelector sounds like a very powerful feature.

Thanks

Houman

Answer 5

here is one from the samples

http://windowssdk.msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms771489.aspx

Answer 6

Thanks Lee