When using the GNOME desktop environment, you may encounter a common issue where windows change their geometry (size and position) immediately after being opened. This can be frustrating, especially when you have a specific layout you prefer. Fortunately, you can address this issue by using a tool called Fly-Pie. In this article, we will explore how to stop windows from changing geometry when opened in GNOME using Fly-Pie, as well as provide helpful insights and resources.
Original Problem
The problem you may face can be summarized as follows:
How can I prevent windows from automatically resizing and repositioning themselves in the GNOME desktop environment upon opening, specifically when utilizing Fly-Pie?
Understanding the Problem
This problem arises due to how GNOME handles window management by default. When applications are launched, GNOME might adjust their sizes and positions based on various factors, including existing layouts and screen resolution settings. This often disrupts user preferences, leading to a less-than-ideal experience.
Using Fly-Pie, a customizable pie menu for GNOME, can help mitigate this issue. Fly-Pie allows users to create their own menus, which can be used to manage window placements more effectively, ensuring that opened windows maintain the desired geometry.
Solution: Using Fly-Pie to Manage Window Geometry
Here’s how you can use Fly-Pie to manage window geometry in GNOME:
-
Install Fly-Pie: You can install Fly-Pie through your package manager. For instance, on Ubuntu, run:
sudo apt install fly-pie -
Create a Custom Menu:
- Open Fly-Pie, and design a new pie menu that includes commands for window management, such as moving the window to a specific position or changing its size.
- You can set up actions for the pie menu that dictate where new windows should open. For example, create slices that move windows to the left side or center of the screen.
-
Assign a Shortcut: After creating your custom pie menu, assign a keyboard shortcut to easily access it when needed.
-
Open Applications: Now, when you open new applications, you can immediately use the Fly-Pie shortcut to adjust their position and size to your preferred settings.
-
Experiment with Settings: Take some time to play around with different configurations in Fly-Pie to see which setup works best for your workflow.
Practical Example
Let’s say you often work with a terminal and a web browser side by side. You want the terminal to open on the left and the browser on the right, without any overlapping. You can create a Fly-Pie menu with two options:
- Terminal Left: Moves the terminal window to the left half of the screen.
- Browser Right: Moves the browser window to the right half of the screen.
By clicking the desired option right after opening each window, you can ensure they maintain your preferred geometry without the interference from GNOME’s automatic window management.
Conclusion
Using Fly-Pie in GNOME not only enhances the way you manage your windows but also helps maintain your desired layout and workflow. By following the steps outlined above, you can effectively stop windows from changing their geometry upon opening. This adjustment can significantly enhance your productivity by providing a more organized workspace.
Useful Resources
By implementing these techniques, you'll be well on your way to a more efficient and personalized GNOME experience.
