HowTo: Two-Pane GUI File Manager

Implementing a two-pane with GNOME File manager is still under review as an additional nautilus file manager feature. Having a two-pane file manager offers better flexibility, convenience and usability of file management and directory operations, which is unbeatable by any customized shell scripts.

Imagine the days when you have to view all the files and directory folders under the DOS command line environment. Technology of having a GUI-based file manager greatly eases out pains on managing files and folders from our hard drives. Now, imagine a GUI-based file manager with this two-pane X file manager.

Here's how to have a two-pane file manager from your X.

What is emelFM2?

emelFM2 is a file manager for UNIX-like operating systems. emelFM2 uses a simple and efficient interface pioneered by Norton Commander, in the 1980s. The main window is divided into three parts, described as "panes" or "panels". Two of those (side-by-side or top-to-bottom) show the contents of selected filesystem directories. The third pane, at the bottom of the window, shows the output of commands executed within the program. Those panes can be resized, and any one or two of them can be hidden and unhidden, on request. A built-in command-line, toolbar buttons or assigned keys can be used to initiate commands.

emelFM2 is the GTK+2 port of emelFM. emelFM2 is a file manager that implements the popular two-pane design. It features a simple GTK+2 interface, a flexible file typing scheme, and a built-in command line for executing commands without opening an xterm.

The usual file operation is commonly featured such as file deletions, directory folder creation, moving and renaming files, view and edit directory and more!

emelFM2 Fedora Installation
# yum -y emelfm2

Binary Launch
# emelfm2

Try it, it's fun, easy and great having a two-pane file manager around.

Sample Webshots: