This is the README for Briefcase.2.0.N.bs.tar.gz [Download] [Browse] [Up]
Briefcase - a utility for opening multiple files/documents in different applications. This program has two reasons for existence. First, I wanted to generalize the multiple-document architecture embodied in Draw for use in my own applications. To do that, I decided to implement an application delegate superclass, which can readily be added to existing applications and connected in IB. There is also a Document superclass, which implements the things I thought documents should keep track of (dirty, empty, file management, etc.) To demonstrate that these classes are at least somewhat subclassable (and hence of value to others), I wrote Briefcase with this paradigm. This package also includes a Preferences Delegate object, which manages a preferences panel; support for localization; and other goodies. The second reason is that I often find myself working with the same collection of three documents, one word processor, one graphics and one spreadsheet document. In this case, I don't need feedback about the documents launching; I just want to launch them all at once, with one key click. Briefcase will allow you to specify files to be launched in one of three ways: either by typing in the absolute path (ended by a return) using the Open panel, or by dragging and dropping the file(s) on the app's icon. These files are displayed in a window which the user can edit. When you save the document, Briefcase writes a quick C program to open the files, compiles it and drops it in the directory you specified. (There will also be a <file>.bc document in that directory. That file is the editable version - the <file> is the binary you run to launch the documents.) Running this program launches the files. Now, you can create mini-programs for use in the dock, or in your directory which will launch multiple files in different directories in different applications at once. Full Documentation (such as it is) can be found in the Help panel. Once again, please forward comments to me - that's the only thing I'm asking in return for releasing the code. I want to learn how to do things right, and I'm asking you to help me. Thanks! Oh yeah. Just type 'make' at a prompt - it has the standard NeXT PB-generated Makefile. It should compile with no warnings. A prebuilt version is also provided. - Subrata Sircar ssircar@canon.com
These are the contents of the former NiCE NeXT User Group NeXTSTEP/OpenStep software archive, currently hosted by Netfuture.ch.