2xExplorer

2000 · operating-system · utility · Windows · Nikos Bozinis

In the good old days of MS/DOS some people had a strange fascination with a program called NC. I openly admit being one of this group. In fact I was missing it so much that I have decided it's high time I built it's equivalent for the Windows 95 environment. 2xExplorer is similar to the standard Explorer, the main file management utility shipped with Windows 95, both in function and "feel" (looks). The main difference and advantage of 2xExplorer is that TWO folders can be displayed simultaneously, enabling the head to head comparison of their contents. This is an indispensable feature for people constantly on the move, like myself. 2xExplorer was developed with the "advanced" user in mind. Programs that are meant to be used day in and day out, have to stand the test of time beyond the first impressions. As I see it, a long lasting "relationship" can only be sustained if all the operations are just an arm's length away, and all the main controls and status indicators are concise and clear. Why bother with target practising or do battles with clogged up and foul mouse roller balls, when all you want to do can be performed with the keyboard? Moreover all the program settings, even down to the width of each column in the "Details" view, are persistent properties. So each time you restart 2xExplorer it's like you pick it up where you last left it---no messing about with resetting your favourite options. At the same time, less experienced users won't be driven/scared away. In most respects this is another Windows 95 Explorer, and whoever is familiar with that, will feel immediately at home using 2xExplorer. Most of the suggested protocols have been adhered to, including browsing of "special" folders like the "Desktop" and "My Computer". The look is not far off the standard Explorer either; one will even see the same "animations" in Copying operations. Description of commands is readily available in the form of explanatory text on the status bar and/or tooltips popping out of toolbar buttons. Dialog windows have embedded brief instructions of use---with complimentary icons too. ;-)