File Browser

The File Browser is the primary navigation component in Peeka2, providing an intuitive way to explore your filesystem.

Overview

Located on the left side of the application, the File Browser presents your filesystem in a familiar tree structure with expandable folders and clickable files.

Features

Directory Navigation

  • Click to expand: Click on folder names or arrows to expand/collapse
  • Single-click selection: Click files to view their contents
  • Home button: Quick navigation to your home directory
  • Path display: Current directory path shown at the top

Favorites System

  • Add to favorites: Click the star icon next to any directory
  • Quick access: Favorites appear at the top of the browser
  • Persistent storage: Favorites are saved between sessions
  • Remove favorites: Click the star again to remove

File Watching

  • Real-time updates: See changes as they happen
  • New file indicators: Newly created files are highlighted
  • Deletion handling: Removed files disappear automatically
  • Performance optimized: Only watches current directory

User Interface

Visual Design

  • Icons: Different icons for files and folders
  • Indentation: Clear hierarchy with proper spacing
  • Hover effects: Visual feedback on mouse hover
  • Selection state: Clear indication of selected items

Interactions

  • Smooth animations: Expand/collapse transitions
  • Loading states: Indicators while reading directories
  • Error handling: Graceful handling of permission errors
  • Empty states: Clear messaging for empty directories

Technical Details

Performance

  • Lazy loading: Directories load content on demand
  • Caching: Recently accessed directories are cached
  • Debouncing: File system events are debounced
  • Memory efficient: Only expanded nodes kept in memory

Limitations

  • Large directories: May be slow with 10,000+ files
  • Network drives: Performance depends on connection
  • Symbolic links: Currently follows symlinks
  • Hidden files: Shown by default (configurable in future)

Tips and Tricks

  1. Keyboard navigation: Use arrow keys for faster navigation
  2. Multiple favorites: Organize projects with favorite folders
  3. Quick filtering: Type to filter visible files (coming soon)
  4. Drag and drop: Drag files to external applications

Future Enhancements

  • Search functionality
  • File filtering options
  • Context menus
  • Drag and drop support
  • File operations (copy, move, delete)
  • Custom icons for file types