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UltraCopier - Multi-Platform Batch File Copying

October 14, 2010
UltraCopier - Multi-Platform Batch File Copying

Streamlining Large File Transfers: A Need for Speed and Reliability

Frequently, I find myself transferring numerous documents and files across the various computers and devices I utilize. While email or cloud storage solutions like Dropbox are adequate for smaller files, larger datasets necessitate alternative approaches.

It’s widely understood that the process of copying or moving substantial files consumes considerable time, particularly when dealing with files exceeding several hundred megabytes. Unexpected interruptions and errors can also arise during these extensive transfers.

The Search for a Robust File Transfer Solution

Consequently, assistance in accelerating the transfer process and effectively managing potential issues is highly valued. A reliable tool can significantly improve workflow efficiency.

This need is precisely why TeraCopy consistently ranks highly among my preferred Windows applications. Interestingly, many Mac users I know also express a desire for a Mac-compatible version of this software.

Introducing UltraCopier: A Multi-Platform Alternative

Currently, TeraCopy remains exclusive to the Windows operating system. However, I’ve discovered a viable multi-platform alternative known as UltraCopier.

UltraCopier offers a potential solution for users seeking similar functionality across different operating systems. It aims to provide a more controlled and efficient file transfer experience.

The Benefits of Batch File Operations

UltraCopier is a versatile application designed for multi-speed batch file copying, and it’s currently available for a wide range of operating systems including Windows (both 32 and 64-bit versions, as well as a portable option), Linux, and macOS. This broad compatibility ensures it can meet the needs of most computer users.

Despite being in an early Beta stage (version 0.2), the application already demonstrates several promising functionalities.

Note: The following walkthrough utilizes the macOS version of the software; however, the experience should be largely consistent across other platforms.

Upon launching, UltraCopier integrates into the Menubar (or System Tray on Windows). Initiating a file operation is straightforward – simply click the icon and select either "Add copy" or "Add move".

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A progress window will then appear. Selecting the "More" button expands the available options. Files awaiting copying or moving can be managed through the provided tool buttons, and a detailed list is displayed in the adjacent pane.

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The "Open (+)" button allows you to select individual files or entire folders. Additional buttons facilitate reordering the file queue – moving items up, down, to the top, or to the bottom – and deleting unwanted entries.

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After clicking open, the application prompts you to specify the source location for the files you wish to copy or move.

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Next, you must designate the destination folder where the files will be saved.

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Once the file arrangement is complete, initiate the transfer process by clicking the "Play" button. The display can be minimized by clicking "More" again, if desired.

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A notification window appears if files with the same names already exist in the destination folder. In such cases, you can choose to overwrite existing files, rename the incoming file, skip the item, or cancel the entire operation.

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The "Overwrite" option offers several choices. Clicking the adjacent arrow reveals a list of available options.

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Additional Features and Personal Observations

It's important to recognize that the "Copy List" tab represents just one component of UltraCopier’s interface. Further tabs are available, offering expanded customization options for the application’s functionality.

The "Options" tab allows users to define actions to be performed upon completion of each copy operation. Copy speed can be limited here, should system resources need to be conserved for other tasks. Settings for handling file collisions and copy errors are also found within this tab.

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Control over the autostart function is provided by the "Copy Management" tab. Enabling this feature initiates the copy or move process immediately after file selection.

Personally, the purpose of several of the other options remains unclear to me, with the exception of "Reduce to systray," which I find readily understandable.

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The "Advanced" tab provides a location for pre-defining the priority of all copy and move operations. Adjustments to the block size and the option to "Preallocate the file's size" are also available. Unless a thorough understanding of these settings is present, it is recommended to leave them at their default values.

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Having used the application for some time, it is apparent that while a redesign of the user interface would be beneficial, the core functionality operates effectively. All files transferred arrived at their destinations without issue.

I am not equipped to offer a professional assessment of transfer speeds. However, the process subjectively felt quicker when used on a Mac. A comparison was also conducted between UltraCopier and TeraCopy on a Windows machine, transferring the same file between the same locations. Based on stopwatch measurements, the difference was minimal, with TeraCopy exhibiting a slight advantage.

Readers with professional insights into this matter are encouraged to share their perspectives in the comments section. Despite its appearance, UltraCopier has become an essential tool in my software collection. Both the Mac and portable Windows versions are kept on my thumb drive for convenient access to accelerated file transfers.

Which application do you find preferable?

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