Extending the File Manager

The file manager can be extended in two main ways. Through the file manager extensions and scripts.

Scripts

The file manager can run scripts written in any scripted language capable of being executed on the computer. Scripts are typically simpler in operation than full the file manager extensions. To run a script, choose File → Scripts, and then choose the script that you want to run from the submenu.

To run a script on a particular file, select the file in the view pane. Choose File → Scripts, and then choose the script that you want to run on the file from the submenu. You can also select multiple files to run your scripts on. You might also access scripts from the context menu.

Installing File Manager Scripts

The file manager includes a special folder where you can store your scripts. All executable files in this folder appear in the Scripts menu. The script folder is located at $HOME/.gnome2/nautilus-scripts.

To install a script, copy the script to the script folder and assign the user executable permission.

To view the contents of your scripts folder, choose File → Scripts → Open Scripts Folder. Navigate to the scripts folder using the file manager if you do not yet have any scripts. If you need to show hidden files to show the script, choose View → Show Hidden Files.

Writing File Manager Scripts

When executed from a local folder, scripts will be passed the selected file names. When executed from a remote folder, scripts will be passed no parameters.

The following table shows variables passed to the script.

Extensions

The file manager extensions are installed by the system administrator.

Some popular file manager extensions include:

• nautilus-actions – Enables you to assign actions based on file type.

• nautilus-send-to – Provides a simple way to send a file or folder to another using email, instant messaging, or Bluetooth.

• nautilus-open-terminal – Provides an easy way to open a terminal at the selected starting location.