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MadAppLauncher - Launch Apps, Files & Folders Faster [Windows]

May 4, 2011
MadAppLauncher - Launch Apps, Files & Folders Faster [Windows]

Streamlining Application and Document Access

The process of initiating applications and opening documents is a fundamental aspect of everyday computer use. However, sifting through numerous files and directories to locate desired items can frequently be a time-consuming and frustrating task.

While the Start Menu and Windows Explorer fulfill their intended functions, many computer users would benefit from a more efficient method for locating and launching programs.

The Role of Application Launchers

Consequently, application launchers are often favored by those seeking to expedite this process. These tools generally operate on a simple principle: activate the launcher, input the application’s name, and press Enter to initiate the program.

A wide variety of launchers employ this methodology, providing a quicker alternative to traditional file navigation.

Introducing MadAppLauncher: A Different Approach

If you are interested in exploring an alternative approach to rapidly launching applications, MadAppLauncher presents a compelling option.

This application is designed to enable users to launch any program or document with a maximum of three keystrokes, offering a potentially significant improvement in efficiency.

It aims to provide a faster and more streamlined experience compared to conventional launching methods.

Three Hundred Boxes

Following installation, MadAppLauncher will be located within the System Tray. Activation of the program’s primary interface is achieved by clicking the icon or utilizing the designated shortcut key combination. Users retain the ability to customize this shortcut key combination as desired.

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Upon initial use, the arrangement of boxes and tabs will be immediately apparent. MadAppLauncher employs a unique methodology compared to conventional file launchers. Rather than prioritizing minimal display and relying on users to type application names, this launcher presents all options within a grid of boxes for direct selection.

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The functionality is straightforward. Items are placed within individual boxes, enabling rapid launching via corresponding keyboard keys. For instance, assigning Notepad to box B allows for its activation by pressing the 'B' key. Populating the boxes with desired applications, files, and folders is the primary user task.

These boxes are organized under a tabbed interface. A total of ten tabs are provided, each containing thirty boxes. This results in a capacity of 300 boxes overall, offering ample space for all necessary items.

Although this approach is more comprehensive than typical launchers, it proves highly efficient when managing a large volume of applications, files, and folders. Launching applications can be accomplished more quickly than with more conventional launching methods.

Configuring Application Launch Boxes

Items can be added to the launch boxes through a simple drag-and-drop action from Windows Explorer. Alternatively, a more controlled method is available – by right-clicking a box and selecting "Edit", followed by…

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The "Target" is specified by clicking "Browse" and locating the desired file. Upon selection, the remaining fields are populated automatically with default values. These fields can be customized as needed.

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The "Appearance" tab governs the display of launched windows. For instance, a specific document can be configured to consistently open on the left side of the screen, occupying a quarter of the available space.

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As a demonstration, box A was assigned to launch Audacity. Consequently, accessing Audacity now simply requires opening MadAppLauncher and pressing "A" on the keyboard.

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MadAppLauncher itself can be activated using a user-defined shortcut key combination. This customization is performed within the "Settings - Hotkey" section.

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The default hotkey is "Control + Oemtilde", though this can be altered to a preferred combination. For clarification, the "oemtilde" character is represented by this symbol: "~".

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To prevent accidental activations, MadAppLauncher can be set to only respond when the assigned key is pressed consecutively. This setting is available within the "Options" window.

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For improved organization, different tabs can be used to categorize launched items. For example, a dedicated tab could house audio applications, another for games, and a third for work-related documents. To rename a tab, right-click it, select "Edit", and enter the desired name.

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Navigation between tabs is facilitated by pressing the number keys (0-9). To streamline tab switching, prefix each tab name with a corresponding number, indicating the key to press. Instead of naming a tab simply "Audio", consider "1Audio".

The MadAppLauncher main window can be automatically hidden after launching an item by enabling the "Auto Hide" option, found within the "View" menu.

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What are your thoughts? Does the MadAppLauncher approach appeal to you, or do you favor a conventional launcher? Please share your perspectives in the comments section below.

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