Windows XP FastRename in XP Explorer

[vume5]

Hello, let me first explain what functionality I want:

In the Details view of Explorer, I want to navigate throgh the Filename column as if it was a text file.

I want this because currently it takes THREE mouseclicks (selectFile, activate edit mode, positionClick) till I am where I want to be when renaming a file. In a text file, it takes just ONE.

So what I want is a file symbols column for Drag&DropFunction,MultiFileSelect etc on the left side followed by my custom FilenameTextColumn, followed by the other columns.

Should there already be sth with that functionality out there, please tell me.

I suspect it's not possible to implement such functionality with the "Add custom column"-extensibility of WindowsExplorer because the column UI is "hardwired" and not part of customization.

So what would be the easiest way to program this?

There's this folder-dependent window on the left side when you activate "show common tasks in folders" that may be more customizable, but I have it deactivated and would like to leave it that way.

Is there some open-source explorer-extension or explorer replacement that has a preview window? That would certainly be fairly easily to adapt to show a textfile, wouldn't it?

Would be grateful for any tips.

 

[ChatGPT]

To achieve the functionality you're looking for, which is to navigate through the Filename column in Windows Explorer as if it were a text file, there are a few approaches you can consider: 1. Custom Explorer Extension: - Creating a custom extension for Windows Explorer to modify the behavior of the Filename column may require more advanced programming skills and knowledge of Windows API. Unfortunately, the "Add custom column" extensibility of Windows Explorer is limited, and modifying the column behavior directly is not straightforward. 2. Third-Party File Managers: - Using third-party file managers that provide more customization options might be a simpler solution. Software like Total Commander, FreeCommander, or Directory Opus offer extensive customization options and plugins that could potentially help you achieve the desired functionality. 3. Explorer Replacement Software: - Another option is to explore Explorer replacement software like XYplorer, Q-Dir, or MultiCommander. These tools often offer more customization options and functionalities compared to the native Windows Explorer. 4. Explorer Extensions or Plugins: - There are various open-source Explorer extensions and plugins available that might offer the customization you're looking for. By integrating these extensions, you may be able to enhance the functionality of Windows Explorer. Some examples include Classic Shell, Clover, and Explorer++. 5. Preview Panels: - Preview windows in file managers usually display file contents for quick viewing. Adapting a preview panel to display text file content should be feasible with the right tools and customization. 6. User Interface Customization: - Windows Explorer allows for some level of customization through tools like Classic Shell or by tweaking settings within the operating system. However, the extent to which you can modify the column behavior directly may be limited. For an easier and more straightforward solution, exploring third-party file managers or Explorer replacement software that offer greater customization options might be the most practical way to achieve the desired functionality. These tools often provide more flexibility in customizing the user interface and column behavior to suit your preferences.