How to Update an ObservableCollection from a Worker Thread in .NET?

Thread-Safe ObservableCollection Updates in .NET

Working with ObservableCollection objects and background threads often leads to exceptions if modifications are attempted outside the UI thread. This article explains why and provides a solution.

The Challenge: Single-Threaded Nature

ObservableCollections are inherently single-threaded. They can only be modified from the thread that created them (usually the UI thread). Attempting updates from a worker thread results in an exception.

Solution for .NET 4.5 and Later

.NET 4.5 and later versions offer BindingOperations.EnableCollectionSynchronization for thread-safe access. This method handles synchronization and dispatches CollectionChanged events to the UI thread.

Implementation Steps:

1. On the UI thread: Call BindingOperations.EnableCollectionSynchronization(yourObservableCollection, new object()). The second argument is a lock object; using new object() creates a simple lock.

2. Within the worker thread: Use the same lock object passed to EnableCollectionSynchronization. Acquire the lock before modifying the ObservableCollection and release it afterward. This ensures thread safety.

3. Perform updates: Make your changes to the ObservableCollection while the lock is held.

This approach leverages the framework's built-in synchronization, providing a clean and efficient solution for updating ObservableCollections from background threads. Remember to always release the lock to prevent deadlocks.

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