| There are two main techniques for performing a file format conversion: dragging files to any PsiFS iconbar icon, or intercepting files double-clicked or dragged within the desktop. These methods are explained within the following sections.
Whatever method is used to start the conversion, the behaviour is similar, with a standard file conversion window being used to select the required conversion. |
| The simplest way to perform a conversion is to drag the icon for the file to be converted to one of the PsiFS iconbar icons. This opens a window from which the required conversion can be selected.
Select the required conversion from those available via the pop-up menu; only file format converters appropriate to the file being converted are offered as options. Either drag the file icon to a filer window or type a filename into the writable icon and click Convert to perform the selected conversion. PsiFS remembers the last conversion performed for each file type, and automatically selects the same file format converter when the same type of file is dragged to an iconbar icon. |
| PsiFS can also intercept files double-clicked or dragged within the desktop. Holding down the Left Alt key while double-clicking on a file, or at the end of a drag, intercepts the file and allows a conversion to be performed.
Select the required conversion from those available via the pop-up menu, and then click Load, Run or Save (as appropriate) to perform the conversion. As with files dragged to an iconbar icon, only file format converters appropriate to the file being converted are offered as options. If file format conversions are frequently required then it may be easier to configure automatic intercepts for specific types of file transfer. It is possible to override these settings at any time by pressing Left Alt to force an intercept and allow a converter to be selected or Right Alt to prevent an intercept. PsiFS remembers the last conversion performed for each combination of file type, type of file transfer intercept, and source and destination applications. This allows the appropriate file format converter to be selected for other files matching the same conditions. This is especially useful if automatic conversions are enabled. |
| [Contents] [Up] | Copyright © Alexander Thoukydides, 1998, 1999, 2000 |