LatteDock/FAQ: Difference between revisions

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[[LatteDock|←Latte Dock]]
<languages />
<translate>
<!--T:1-->
[[Special:myLanguage/LatteDock|←Latte Dock]]


###  _Q: What is Latte Dock? How did it begin?_
<!--T:143-->
[[File:LLoXdgK.png|right|Latte Dock!]]


  _**A:**_ **Latte Dock** is a dock based on plasma frameworks and a direct successor of [Now Dock](https://github.com/psifidotos/nowdock-panel). **Latte** is the combined effort from the developers of [Now Dock](https://github.com/psifidotos/nowdock-panel) and [Candil Dock](https://github.com/audoban/Candil-Dock).
==  What is Latte Dock? How did it begin? == <!--T:2-->


###  _Q: How can I add launchers?_
<!--T:3-->
'''Latte Dock''' is a dock based on plasma frameworks and a direct successor of [https://github.com/psifidotos/nowdock-panel Now Dock]. '''Latte''' is the combined effort from the developers of [https://github.com/psifidotos/nowdock-panel Now Dock] and [https://github.com/audoban/Candil-Dock Candil Dock].


  _**A:**_ The easiest and memory efficient way is to drag n' drop them on the taskmanager (this is the area that dots and lines are shown under running windows).
== Which Linux distros provide "Out Of The Box" Latte Dock experience? == <!--T:144-->


_Hint:_ You can add them also outside the taskmanager but that creates animation issues for size <64px and it is memory hungry.
<!--T:145-->
* [https://nxos.org/ Nitrux]
* [https://garudalinux.org/ Garuda KDE Dragonized]
* [https://xldb.techxero.com/ Xerolinux]
* [https://distrowatch.com/table.php?distribution=bluestar Bluestar Linux]
* [https://pearos.xyz/ pearOS]


###  _Q: How can I add applets?_
== How can I add launchers? == <!--T:4-->


  _**A:**_ right click on your **Plasma desktop -> Add Widgets**. From the plasma widgets explorer drag n' drop any widget you want onto your Latte dock
<!--T:5-->
The easiest and most memory-efficient way to do so is to drag n' drop them on the task manager (this is the area where dots and lines are shown under running windows).


###  _Q: How can I enable _Edit Mode_ in Latte?_ 
<!--T:6-->
You can also add them outside the task manager, but this creates animation issues for sizes <64px and it is memory hungry.


  _**A:**_ In **_Edit Mode_** the user can remove applets, change their ordering and access advanced settings in various areas. To enable it the user just has to show the **Latte Settings Window**.
== My launcher and its window are not associated correctly OR my launcher is using a low-resolution icon? == <!--T:15-->


###  _Q: How can I move/remove applets?_
<!--T:16-->
This issue means that plasma '''libtaskmanager''' has not associated your launcher and app windows correctly to the relevant desktop file. Plasma is trying to be smart enough in order to correctly identify which desktop files are associated to which specific windows, but there are cases when it fails. Best way to solve this is to check the <code>StartupWMClass</code> record in the desktop file. This record should point at the proper <code>WM_CLASS</code> record at all times. For example even though the Latte Dock desktop file is called {{Path|1=org.kde.latte-dock.desktop}}, its <code>StartupWMClass</code> is <code>lattedock</code>. In order to correctly identify the <code>StartupWMClass</code> of an application, you can use <code>xprop</code>.


  _**A:**_  you should go to **Edit Mode** (this is when the settings window is shown) and then you can drag any applet you want to be placed else where. At the same point you can also remove it by right clicking on it or by pressing the [X] button and the tooltip above the applet.
<!--T:17-->
'''Example:'''
# Run <code>xprop</code> from the command line.</translate>
<translate>
<!--T:121-->
# Click on the window you are interested in.</translate>
<translate>
<!--T:122-->
# Locate at the end of the output the record <code>WM_CLASS(STRING) =</code>.</translate>
<translate>
<!--T:123-->
# Add the previously mentioned record in the application desktop file at the <code>StartupWMClass</code> field.


###  _Q: Can I disable parabolic effect for specific applet?_
<!--T:18-->
For instance, with "Gimp 2.10", even though its desktop file is called {{Path|1=gimp.desktop}}, its <code>StartupWMClass</code> is "gimp-2.10". <code>StartupWMClass</code> is not needed to be added for "Gimp" since plasma developers have taken special care to map it properly through {{Path|1=/etc/xdg/taskmanagerrulesrc}}.


  _**A:**_ you should go to **Edit Mode** (this is when the settings window is shown) and hover afterwards the specific applet. Its tooltip contains a locker icon that you can use to disable parabolic effect for that applet.
== How can I enable Latte Global Shortcuts? == <!--T:46-->


###  _Q: My launcher and its window are not associated correctly OR my launcher is using a low-resolution icon?_
<!--T:47-->
In most cases you need to go to <menuchoice>Plasma System Settings</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Global Shortcuts</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Latte Dock</menuchoice> and enable what shortcuts you need.


  _**A:**_ That issue means that plasma libtaskmanager has not associated correctly your launcher and app windows with the relevant desktop file. Plasma is trying to be smart enough in order to identify correctly which desktop files are associated to specific windows but there are cases that it fails. Best way to solve this is to check the `StartupWMClass` record in the desktop file. That record should point at the proper `WM_CLASS` record at all times. For example even though Latte desktop file is called `org.kde.latte-dock.desktop` its `StartupWMClass` is `lattedock`. In order to identify correctly the `StartupWMClass` for an application you can use `xprop` to do so.
<!--T:48-->
* <menuchoice>Super + Number</menuchoice> : Activate a task</translate>
<translate>
<!--T:125-->
* <menuchoice>Super + Ctrl + Number</menuchoice> : A new instance for a task</translate>
<translate>
<!--T:126-->
* <keycap>Super + `</keycap>: Show a hidden dock


**Example:**
== Can I use my super key to open the app launcher? == <!--T:49-->
1. Run `xprop` in command prompt
2. Click on the window you are interested in
3. Locate at the end of the output the record `WM_CLASS(STRING) =`
4. Add the previous mentioned record in the application desktop file at the `StartupWMClass` field


e.g. for **Gimp 2.10** even though its desktop file is called **gimp.desktop** its `StartupWMClass` is `gimp-2.10` . `StartupWMClass` is not needed to be added for **Gimp** because plasma developers have taken special care to map it properly through `/etc/xdg/taskmanagerrulesrc`.
<!--T:146-->
* The official way to enable this is to right click <menuchoice>Dock</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Configure Latte...</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Enable autostart during startup</menuchoice>


###  _Q: How Latte Dock (auto)starts and why a widget is provided?_
<!--T:147-->
* The manual way is to <menuchoice>Close Latte</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Execute in command prompt:</menuchoice> {{Input|1=<nowiki>kwriteconfig5 --file ~/.config/kwinrc --group ModifierOnlyShortcuts --key Meta "org.kde.lattedock,/Latte,org.kde.LatteDock,activateLauncherMenu"
qdbus org.kde.KWin /KWin reconfigure</nowiki>}}


  _**A:**_ **Latte** starts from the menu; there is no need to place the widget on your desktop. It is there for testing purposes. The automatic start can be enabled through **Settings Window -> Tweaks**.
== Launchers are disappearing before the relevant window is shown even though they shouldn't. == <!--T:75-->


###  _Q: Did any other dock inspire you? How does Latte Dock compare to other docks?_
<!--T:76-->
We are acquainted with this, but this behavior is provided by plasma's '''libtaskmanager'''. You can read more at: [https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock/issues/72 Latte Issue #72], [https://bugs.kde.org/show_bug.cgi?id=368386 KDE bug report]


  _**A:**_ **Latte** has an architecture inspired and based on Plasmashell, but we also took some inspiration from Plank eg: the Visibility modes.
== My left dock behaves strangely from Plasma 5.10 onwards, how can I fix this? == <!--T:81-->


###  _Q: What technology/programming language does it make use of?_
<!--T:82-->
In Plasma 5.10, the KWin developers introduced gesture functionality for touch screens, which is enabled by default for all systems. You can disable it through plasma <menuchoice>System Settings</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Workspace Behavior</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Touchscreen</menuchoice>. Relogin your plasma session if the change doesn't take effect immediately.


  _**A:**_ **Latte** is mostly written in **Qt/QML** and **C++14**, but this project would not be possible without [**KDE Frameworks 5**](https://api.kde.org/frameworks/index.html).
<!--T:83-->
[https://bugs.kde.org/show_bug.cgi?id=382219 KWin bug report] [https://bugs.kde.org/show_bug.cgi?id=392464 Plasma bug report]


###  _Q: Ok, you convinced me to try it! How can I install it and what are it's dependencies?_
== Is there a way to tell Latte Dock to launch only in '''Plasma Session''' ? == <!--T:90-->


  _**A:**_ Download the sources and build **Latte** also remember to install the dependencies. Please read [README](https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock/blob/master/README.md) and [INSTALLATION](https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock/blob/master/INSTALLATION.md). But if you have problems or doubts you can [ask us](https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock/issues/203).
<!--T:91-->
Of course you can, please follow these steps:


### _Q: Which distributions have packages for it, so to install it via P.M. ?_
<!--T:92-->
# Go to <menuchoice>System Settings</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Startup and Shutdown</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Autostart</menuchoice>.</translate>
<translate>
<!--T:129-->
# Choose '''Latte Dock''' from the applications list.</translate>
<translate>
<!--T:130-->
# <menuchoice>Advanced</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Autostart only in Plasma</menuchoice>.


  _**A:**_ Please read at the bottom of [Latte Dock Main Page](https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock) the [Repositories](https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock#from-repositories) section.
== What happens if I drag 'n' drop files on launchers? == <!--T:113-->


###  _Q: After the launcher bouncing animation the window showing isn't smooth?_
<!--T:114-->
The file will be passed as a parameter to the specific application, creating a new instance (e.g. passing an image to '''Kolourpaint''' will open the image with '''Kolourpaint''').


  _**A:**_ try the following steps,
== My right click does not work ? == <!--T:119-->
  1. Go to `Plasma System Settings -> Applications -> Launch Feedback -> (disable) Task Manager` animation
  2. If the problem remains then your application desktop file might be missing the **StartupWMClass** record. For Inkscape that would be: `StartupWMClass=inkscape`
      you can use the `xprop` program in order to identify that value correctly.


###  _Q: What are some basic configuration options?_
<!--T:120-->
When right-click does not work both for applets and tasks it means that your Latte has not been built with the same KDE Frameworks libraries like Plasma Desktop. The only solution is either your distro to update its Latte package properly or to build Latte by yourself.


  _**A:**_ **Latte** is highly configurable. We invite you to explore and configure latte to your pleasure from the config window. 👍
== How can I set the maximum icon size for applets in Plasma panels? == <!--T:132-->
But some special features are: Visibility, Zoom Effect and Add widgets/plasmoids from Plasma5.


###  _Q: Where is the configuration(s) stored?_
<!--T:133-->
If you want to set 192px. as maximum icon size for applets in panels you can execute:


  _**A:**_ Be careful!!
<!--T:134-->
`cat ~/.config/lattedock-appletsrc`
{{Input|1=<nowiki>kwriteconfig --file ~/.config/kdeglobals --group PanelIcons --key Size "192"</nowiki>}}
`cat ~/.config/lattedockrc`


###  _Q: Inside `~/.config/lattedock-appletsrc` I see various stuff. Can you explain a little the idea behind those?_
<!--T:135-->
In the previous example, any plasma applets larger than 192px. are going to use their full Desktop representation when are placed inside panels.


_**A:**_ Config is organized based on `Containments` (eg `[Containments][1]`). Each of those have a number to distiguish one from the other and each one also has different blocks of options. That's where `applets` come in to play and each `Containment` has it's applets (usually one - `[Containments][1][Applets][2]`).  So it goes like: 
== How can I improve CPU usage? == <!--T:136-->


`[Containments][NumberOfContainemt][Applets][NumberOf_Applet]` 
<!--T:137-->
Latte, in general, has as a focus to provide maximum configurability and performance, so all its graphics and animations are set to BEST values...


Now, applet-2 maybe a series of launchers, a Plasma Widget, anything. Each and every applet also has multiple blocks of configuration. A block might be for generic _applet_ configuration (eg `[Containments][1][Applets][2]`) or about some more specific options (eg `[Containments][1][Applets][2][Configuration][General]`).
<!--T:138-->
An easy and known solution if you want better CPU usage it to DISABLE tasks/applets shadows. Latte is using DropShadow qml element extensively and it is quite costly. To disable all shadows in a dock, you can do:


As you can tell we can't write all about those numerous options, but here is the deal: You can tweak every applet seperately, you can change the appereance order of applets with `appletOrder=No_of_Applet;No_of_Another`, under `[Containments][1][General]`* , you can manually change the `iconSize` in the same block, if want `shadows`, what the `zoomLevel` has to be and etc. A **sample** is provided [here](http://pastebin.ca/3772307) to see for your self.
<!--T:139-->
'''Right click Dock -> Edit Dock... -> Effects -> "Shadows" [disable that options group from its header]'''


*You see, it _contains_ all the other applets and you tweak under _general_ options
<!--T:140-->
In my system, when using the parabolic effect, ''CPU usage is dropped around 75%''


###  _Q: What are some expert configuration options to never mess with?_
== My badge counters do not work in Latte Dock. How can I fix it? == <!--T:141-->


_**A:**_ None is forbiden, as long as you take _frequent backups_ of your configuration. Use [cron](https://www.cyberciti.biz/faq/how-do-i-add-jobs-to-cron-under-linux-or-unix-oses/) or similar software to automate the procedure and place them in an safe place.
<!--T:142-->
Please make sure you have libunity installed. On KDE versions of Ubuntu such as Kubuntu and KDE Neon, you will need <code>libunity-dev</code> installed.


###  _Q: How can I enable the Latte Global Shortcuts?_
== How can I autocolor my Latte panel based on specific application? == <!--T:148-->


_**A:**_ In most cases you need to go at `plasma systemsettings -> Global Shortcuts -> Latte Dock` and enable what shortcuts you need.
<!--T:149-->
# Install <menuchoice>Latte Window Colors </menuchoice> KWin script from [https://store.kde.org/p/1290287/ KDE Store]</translate>
<translate>
<!--T:150-->
# Right click <menuchoice>Latte Panel</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Edit Panel...</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Appearance</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Colors</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>From Window</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Any Touching Window</menuchoice></translate>
<translate>
<!--T:151-->
# Specify different color schemes for your applications:</translate>
<translate>
<!--T:152-->
#* Right click <menuchoice>Window Titlebar</menuchoice></translate>
<translate>
<!--T:153-->
#* <menuchoice>More Actions</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Configure Special Application Settings...</menuchoice></translate>
<translate>
<!--T:154-->
#* <menuchoice>Add Property</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Appearance and Fixes</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Titlebar color scheme</menuchoice></translate>
<translate>
<!--T:155-->
#* Select <menuchoice>Force</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Choose your preferred color scheme</menuchoice>


  - **Super+No**: activate a task
== Can I disable autocolor for specific applet? == <!--T:161-->
  - **Super+Ctrl+No**: a new instance for a task
  - **Super+`**: show a hidden dock


###  _Q: Can I use my **super key** to open the app launcher?_
<!--T:162-->
Yes, right click <menuchoice>Dock</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Edit Dock...</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Rearrange and configure your widgets</menuchoice> &rarr; <menuchoice>Disable "drop" icon</menuchoice> from mentioned applet tooltip


_**A1:**_ of course you can but you will need to add at your `~/.config/kwinrc` file the following code:


```
== Are there any known compatibility issues with specific graphics drivers? == <!--T:115-->
[ModifierOnlyShortcuts]
Meta=org.kde.lattedock,/Latte,org.kde.LatteDock,activateLauncherMenu
```


Then reload KWin with:
<!--T:116-->
If you have Intel Graphics and experience problems with rendering such as pixelated graphics, corrupt text and others, you can try changing the 2D rendering method from ''SNA'' to ''UXA''.


```
<!--T:117-->
qdbus org.kde.KWin /KWin reconfigure
{{Path|1=/etc/X11/xorg.conf.d/20-intel.conf}}
```


  _**A2:**_ alternativily you can run commands:
<!--T:118-->
{{Input|1=<nowiki>
section    "Device"
Identifier "Intel Graphics"
Driver      "intel"
Option      "AccelMethod" "uxa"
EndSection</nowiki>}}


```
== Can I have different '''Borderless Maximized''' windows options between different layouts? == <!--T:156-->
kwriteconfig5 --file ~/.config/kwinrc --group ModifierOnlyShortcuts --key Meta "org.kde.lattedock,/Latte,org.kde.LatteDock,activateLauncherMenu"
qdbus org.kde.KWin /KWin reconfigure
```


###  _Q: Latte v0.8 deactivates **Borderless Maximized** Windows from Active Window Control plasmoid, what can I do ?_
<!--T:157-->
1. Yes, this is possible. First enable this functionality in Latte's Preferences settings:


_**A:**_ Latte v0.8 supports **BorderLess Maximized** Windows per layout simultaneously. In order for this to work it had to support that feature internally. You can try the following:
<!--T:158-->
[[File:Borderless.png]]


1. Disable **BorderLess Maximized** Windows from "**Active Window Control**"
<!--T:159-->
2. Go to Latte Settings -> Layouts -> Choose tab (Preferences) and enable "**Support borderless maximized windows in different layouts**"
2. Enable/Disable this functionality per layout on the Latte Layout settings afterwards.
3. Return to your layouts and a new column called **"Borderless**" must have been added, add a check mark in that column for the layout you want that feature and click **Apply**


###  _Q: Ok now Latte can't launch. Is there any sample config to restore to?_
<!--T:160-->
[[File:Layout.png]]


_**A:**_ You have been told to take backups. Unfortunatelly unless you post your configuration to get help, little can be done now; just `killall -9 latte-dock`, delete your configuration and restart Latte in order to reconfigure it. A configuration exists [here](http://pastebin.ca/3772307) but it's most likely useless to you.
</translate>
 
###  _Q: Can I tweak things like Dock's distance from the screen's border?_ 
 
_**A:**_ You can minimize the distance, but not directly tweak it. Go to **Latte Setting -> Tweaks** and select **Shrink thickness margins**
 
###  _Q: Are there preloaded layouts for Latte v0.6?_ 
 
_**A:**_ In Latte v0.7 the layouts have been added by default in Appearance page. For previous v0.6 the users can use [Preloaded Layouts](https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock/files/888568/MyProfiles.zip) file, that contains four of the most used layouts _(Default, Unity, Plasma, Favourite)_
 
###  _Q: Can I tweak a launcher's ico or it's command parameteres?_ 
 
_**A:**_ You could set it up at you plasma environment and drag n' drop it onto your Latte dock
 
###  _Q: Can I rearrange misplaced launchers and applets through the configuration files?_
 
_**A:**_ If you misplaced a **launcher** (or a whole applet), open `~/.config/lattedock-appletsrc`. Search your launcher and decide where you want to place it. Cut `;file:///usr/share/applications/myapp.desktop` (yes, the semicolon too) and paste it after the launcher - and before it's semicolon - you wish. **Be very careful**; Only the last launcher doesn't need a semicolor afterwards! So if you are copying your launcher between two others, you have to make sure that both _before and after_ your launcher, a semicolon exists. Let's see an example; let's say you need to copy `transmission-qt` launcher:
 
`..;file:///usr/share/applications/kchmviewer.desktop;file:transmission-qt;file:....`
 
If what you want to reposition is a whole **applet**, rather than a launcher in an applet, you will find `appletOrder` very usefull. Just note your applet's number and change the order in which applets are written in the previously mentioned option. Have I mentioned to keep a backup before you edit? I did now.
 
###  _Q: What effects does Latte Dock provide? Can launchers rotate, shake or dim when clicked?_
 
_**A:**_ Latte only has the zoom effect and the shadows, but we are very concerned about delivering an excellent user experience.
 
###  _Q: How can someone shutdown *any* effect, so the icons do absolutely nothing when clicked?_
 
_**A:**_ You can disable all animations through **Latte Configuration Window -> Appearance -> Animations -> None**
 
###  _Q: Launchers are disappearing before the relevant window is shown even though they shouldnt._
 
_**A:**_ We know but this behavior is provided by **plasma libtaskmanager**. You can read more at: [Latte Issue #72](https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock/issues/72), [kde bug report](https://bugs.kde.org/show_bug.cgi?id=368386)
 
###  _Q: I set Animations to "None", but when clicking on an launcher it's icon is momentarily disappeared._
 
_**A:**_ This bug is _already_ fixed in current master and will be included in the next (0.6.0) release. So all you have to do is `git pull` the latest changes of master, or wait for the next stable version if you like so.
 
###  Q: Some applets in my dock are shown too small from _Plasma 5.10_ and beyond, can I fix this?
 
_**A:**_ In Plasma 5.10, the plasma developers decided that the applets in the panels should have a maximum size that they shouldnt overcome. You can change this at plasma `systemsettings -> Icons -> Advanced -> Panel ->` **set a size of 256px.**
 
###  Q: My left dock behaves strangely from _Plasma 5.10_ and beyond, can I fix this?
 
_**A:**_ In Plasma 5.10, the kwin developers introduced the gestures functionality for touch screens which is enabled by default for all systems. You can disable it through plasma `systemsettings -> Workspace Behavior -> Touchscreen`. Relogin your plasma session if the change doesnt take effect immediately.
 
kwin upstream: https://bugs.kde.org/show_bug.cgi?id=382219
plasma upstream: https://bugs.kde.org/show_bug.cgi?id=392464
 
###  _Q: So far so good, but Wayland is the future. What the plans are on this?_
 
_**A:**_ We plan it for Plasma 5.10, but we are working from now on to offer experimental support
 
###  _Q: When support for Wayland is provided, will Latte Dock remove it's auto magical dependency of X11?_
 
_**A:**_ It's still a long way off for Wayland to replace X11, but it's possible to build **Latte** without dependencies X11, however we are still working on supporting Wayland.
 
###  _Q: As of writing this F.A.Q. , what is the problem with Qt5.8?_
 
_**A:**_ If you are brave enough to mess with technical details, you may want to look [here](https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock/issues/183) and [here](https://bugreports.qt.io/browse/QTBUG-59044)
 
###  _Q: Is there a way to tell Latte Dock to launch only for a Plasma session ?_
 
_**A:**_ Of course you can, please follow these steps:
 
1. Go to **Plasma System Settings -> Startup and Shutdown -> Autostart**
2. Choose **Latte Dock** from applications list
3. Advanced
4. **Autostart only in Plasma**
 
###  _Q: Is there any other hickup or potential problem I should be careful of?_ 
 
_**A:**_ Software as everything else in life, isn't perfect; we constantly try to make a better software and you can help
us out with this by reporting every possilbe problem you may find. To answer the question though, there isn't a bug serious enough to prevent you from trying **Latte Dock**.
 
###  _Q: Are there any hopes and wishes for features from the Plasma upstream?_
 
_**A:**_ The most important feature needed from KWin in wayland is the distrors to provide access at kwayland's priviliged apis _(and/or)_ for the users, a confirmation from them that Latte requests such apis
 
###  _Q: How often new versions will be released and what are your plans?_
 
_**A:**_ The first priority to release a stable version is for all the needed features to have been implemented and no major crashes to appear. So we try to keep the schedule but on the other hand _it will be ready when it is ready_.
 
###  _Q: I am a complete newbie but I want to help you somehow. What can I do?_
 
_**A:**_ As we write this F.A.Q. much help is needed to make **Latte** stable with multiscreen setups. You could clone the
`multiscreens` branch and report back any issues. Also normal bug reports, reports about problems with specific Plasma or Qt versions, strange desktop behavior or even wishes about new features are all welcome :-)
 
###  _Q: I know how to program. What can I do?_ 
 
  _**A:**_ First step is to know what you are after and then to `fork` this repo; after that you can hunt bugs, add new features - or make more stable those already existing. Discuss your changes and if they are good and reasonable enough, we are more than happy for your pull request.
 
###  _Q: How can I install from the current master branch ?_ 
 
  __**A:**__ You can easily, download and instal from the last master branch by running a script with commands:
  - `git clone https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock.git`
  - `cd Latte-Dock`
  - `sh install.sh`
The last command might ask for your root password, just before installing.
 
###  _Q: How can I install from a specific branch ?_ 
 
  __**A:**__  If you wish test some features currently non existing in `master` branch, you have to `checkout` the branch you wish to install. Let's say you need the `multi2` branch: 
  - `git clone https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock.git`
  - `cd Latte-Dock`
  - `git pull`
  - `git branch multi2`
  - `git checkout multi2`
  - `git pull origin multi2` 
Compile as usual.
 
###  _Q: I added the applet, but it is shown without a shadow like the rest of the icons_ 
 
  _**A:**_ Well, if an applet (or more) hasn't a shadow, you should either double-check that option `All` is set under **Latte Settings -> Appearance**
 
###  _Q: What happens if I drag 'n' drop files on launchers ?_
 
  _**A:**_ The file will be passed as a parameter to the specific application, creating a new instance (eg passing an image to kolourpaint, will open the image with kolourpaint)
 
###  _Q: Are there known compatibility issues, with some specific graphics driver ?_
 
  _**A:**_ If you have Intel Graphics and experiment problems with the rendering e.g. pixelated graphics, corrupt text, etc, you can try changing the rendering method 2D from `SNA` to `UXA`.
 
_/etc/X11/xorg.conf.d/20-intel.conf_
```
section "Device"
  Identifier  "Intel Graphics"
  Driver      "intel"
  Option      "AccelMethod"  "uxa"
EndSection
```
###  _Q: My Dock don't show anymore when i activate the auto-hide or the dodge window feature_
 
  _**A:**_ Apparently some features from plasma can hinder the dock's ability to show itself when touching the screen border. Plasma 5.10 added the option to execute actions on swiping over a border on a touch screen. You can find this option in the system preferences under: Desktop behavior > Touch screen. If you have your dock on the same border a touch gesture is activated the dock may not be able to show itself. Try deactivating the gesture on that border, then close and restart your session and check if the problem was fixed. ([#676](https://github.com/psifidotos/Latte-Dock/issues/676))

Latest revision as of 11:54, 12 June 2022

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←Latte Dock

Latte Dock!
Latte Dock!

What is Latte Dock? How did it begin?

Latte Dock is a dock based on plasma frameworks and a direct successor of Now Dock. Latte is the combined effort from the developers of Now Dock and Candil Dock.

Which Linux distros provide "Out Of The Box" Latte Dock experience?

How can I add launchers?

The easiest and most memory-efficient way to do so is to drag n' drop them on the task manager (this is the area where dots and lines are shown under running windows).

You can also add them outside the task manager, but this creates animation issues for sizes <64px and it is memory hungry.

My launcher and its window are not associated correctly OR my launcher is using a low-resolution icon?

This issue means that plasma libtaskmanager has not associated your launcher and app windows correctly to the relevant desktop file. Plasma is trying to be smart enough in order to correctly identify which desktop files are associated to which specific windows, but there are cases when it fails. Best way to solve this is to check the StartupWMClass record in the desktop file. This record should point at the proper WM_CLASS record at all times. For example even though the Latte Dock desktop file is called org.kde.latte-dock.desktop, its StartupWMClass is lattedock. In order to correctly identify the StartupWMClass of an application, you can use xprop.

Example:

  1. Run xprop from the command line.
  2. Click on the window you are interested in.
  3. Locate at the end of the output the record WM_CLASS(STRING) =.
  4. Add the previously mentioned record in the application desktop file at the StartupWMClass field.

For instance, with "Gimp 2.10", even though its desktop file is called gimp.desktop, its StartupWMClass is "gimp-2.10". StartupWMClass is not needed to be added for "Gimp" since plasma developers have taken special care to map it properly through /etc/xdg/taskmanagerrulesrc.

How can I enable Latte Global Shortcuts?

In most cases you need to go to Plasma System SettingsGlobal ShortcutsLatte Dock and enable what shortcuts you need.

  • Super + Number : Activate a task
  • Super + Ctrl + Number : A new instance for a task
  • Super + `: Show a hidden dock

Can I use my super key to open the app launcher?

  • The official way to enable this is to right click DockConfigure Latte...Enable autostart during startup
  • The manual way is to Close LatteExecute in command prompt:
    kwriteconfig5 --file ~/.config/kwinrc --group ModifierOnlyShortcuts --key Meta "org.kde.lattedock,/Latte,org.kde.LatteDock,activateLauncherMenu"
    qdbus org.kde.KWin /KWin reconfigure

Launchers are disappearing before the relevant window is shown even though they shouldn't.

We are acquainted with this, but this behavior is provided by plasma's libtaskmanager. You can read more at: Latte Issue #72, KDE bug report

My left dock behaves strangely from Plasma 5.10 onwards, how can I fix this?

In Plasma 5.10, the KWin developers introduced gesture functionality for touch screens, which is enabled by default for all systems. You can disable it through plasma System SettingsWorkspace BehaviorTouchscreen. Relogin your plasma session if the change doesn't take effect immediately.

KWin bug report Plasma bug report

Is there a way to tell Latte Dock to launch only in Plasma Session ?

Of course you can, please follow these steps:

  1. Go to System SettingsStartup and ShutdownAutostart.
  2. Choose Latte Dock from the applications list.
  3. AdvancedAutostart only in Plasma.

What happens if I drag 'n' drop files on launchers?

The file will be passed as a parameter to the specific application, creating a new instance (e.g. passing an image to Kolourpaint will open the image with Kolourpaint).

My right click does not work ?

When right-click does not work both for applets and tasks it means that your Latte has not been built with the same KDE Frameworks libraries like Plasma Desktop. The only solution is either your distro to update its Latte package properly or to build Latte by yourself.

How can I set the maximum icon size for applets in Plasma panels?

If you want to set 192px. as maximum icon size for applets in panels you can execute:

kwriteconfig --file ~/.config/kdeglobals --group PanelIcons --key Size "192"

In the previous example, any plasma applets larger than 192px. are going to use their full Desktop representation when are placed inside panels.

How can I improve CPU usage?

Latte, in general, has as a focus to provide maximum configurability and performance, so all its graphics and animations are set to BEST values...

An easy and known solution if you want better CPU usage it to DISABLE tasks/applets shadows. Latte is using DropShadow qml element extensively and it is quite costly. To disable all shadows in a dock, you can do:

Right click Dock -> Edit Dock... -> Effects -> "Shadows" [disable that options group from its header]

In my system, when using the parabolic effect, CPU usage is dropped around 75%

My badge counters do not work in Latte Dock. How can I fix it?

Please make sure you have libunity installed. On KDE versions of Ubuntu such as Kubuntu and KDE Neon, you will need libunity-dev installed.

How can I autocolor my Latte panel based on specific application?

  1. Install Latte Window Colors KWin script from KDE Store
  2. Right click Latte PanelEdit Panel...AppearanceColorsFrom WindowAny Touching Window
  3. Specify different color schemes for your applications:
    • Right click Window Titlebar
    • More ActionsConfigure Special Application Settings...
    • Add PropertyAppearance and FixesTitlebar color scheme
    • Select ForceChoose your preferred color scheme

Can I disable autocolor for specific applet?

Yes, right click DockEdit Dock...Rearrange and configure your widgetsDisable "drop" icon from mentioned applet tooltip


Are there any known compatibility issues with specific graphics drivers?

If you have Intel Graphics and experience problems with rendering such as pixelated graphics, corrupt text and others, you can try changing the 2D rendering method from SNA to UXA.

/etc/X11/xorg.conf.d/20-intel.conf

section     "Device"
Identifier  "Intel Graphics"
Driver      "intel"
Option      "AccelMethod"  "uxa"
EndSection

Can I have different Borderless Maximized windows options between different layouts?

1. Yes, this is possible. First enable this functionality in Latte's Preferences settings:

2. Enable/Disable this functionality per layout on the Latte Layout settings afterwards.