Catbird Linux 1.7.0 Released

Catbird Linux 1.7.0 is now available for download. This one has some changes for the i3 window manager and a new SDR client.

Caja, the file manager. and Alacritty, the terminal emulator, are now configured to be automatically hidden on the scratchpad or shown on the present workspace. When you hit a keybind to initially open either of those apps, they will open as fairly large floating windows. Instead of closing them when no longer needed, you should hit the same keybind to remove the app from view.

Notice that I didn't say, "close" the app... The auto show and hide function moves the affected applications to the scratchpad if it finds them opened on a workspace. Conversely, if the auto show and hide function finds the application already on the scratchpad, it is moved to the present workspace as a floating window.

To summarize: Caja and Alacritty are opened if not running and toggled in or out of view by their associated hot keys. I am enjoying that, as the system brings them up or stows them away in mere milliseconds - far faster than fully opening or closing them.

The other notable item for version 1.7.0 is the addition of SuperSDR, a client for KiwiSDRs which makes it possible to tune in mediumwave or shortwave signals from around the world without dependence on the web browser. Sure, the KiwiSDRs present a nice web interface; SuperSDR works with much less RAM, lower latency, on a full screen, and with a much better spectrum waterfall. It is really nice.

SuperSDR, like Catbird Linux, is largely operated by the keyboard. Hit "F" to enter a new frequency , "A" to receive AM, "U" or "L" for upper or lower sideband, respectively. Float the cursor over "HELP" for the full set of keybinds for the radio client. It is pretty slick for a news junkie like myself, who can pull up AM talk radio from different regions at will.

It is a lot like the configuration I set in Skywave Linux, but Catbird has better code working behind the scenes. Watch my video here to see these changes in action.

Regards,
PC / Catbird Linux