start programs in terminal

jtravnick · 03-30-2006, 09:59 AM

Ok so this is probably a dumb question but it kinda has me wondering. I usually check the forums at lest once a day and read all the new threads. Always can learn something new just from reading. Anyway noticed that sometimes when somebody has a problem with a program it is suggested that they start it in terminal instead of the GUI. so that they can see any errors. So my question is how does one do this? I know how to get to the terminal, just not how to start a program like say firefox or open office.

Jim

sm1else · 03-30-2006, 10:23 AM

You need to know the name of the executable file. Once youve got that you simply type it and press enter.
So for openoffice and firefox:

Code:

ooffice

Code:

firefox

pwc101 · 03-30-2006, 10:56 AM

just to add to sm1else's post, if you append an ampersand (&) to the end of the program name, then you can continue to work in the terminal you've opened the program from:

Code:

ooffice&

and

Code:

firefox&

for example, will allow you to open open office and firefox, and yet continue to use the terminal for something else.

it's something which I find handy.

jtravnick · 03-30-2006, 11:02 AM

cool how easy!! now just have to figure out the executable files for some of the other programs.

thanks Jim

blanks · 03-31-2006, 09:38 AM

Quote:

now just have to figure out the executable files for some of the other programs.

List every executable on your system:

$> find / | file -f - | grep -i executable | more

Bash scripting is fun and interesting!!@?1!!!

TruongAn · 03-31-2006, 09:51 AM

I think you used to excute the program by clicking on the panel or from the menu etc.
So you can do a right click and choose the properties.
In the open up dialog box, notice the textbox with the title command or something like that, it tell you what is the name of the excute file exactly as well the parameter it need

DeusExLinux · 03-31-2006, 06:18 PM

generally the executable is just the name of the program, with a few exceptions (like openoffice)