How to Use the Command 'autorandr' (with examples)

The ‘autorandr’ command is a versatile tool designed to automatically adjust your screen layout. Whether you frequently switch between different monitor setups or simply want to streamline your workflow, ‘autorandr’ simplifies the process of managing configurations. It enables you to save, switch, and manage different screen settings effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for professionals who require seamless transitions between various display arrangements.

Use Case 1: Save the Current Screen Layout

Code:

autorandr --save profile_name

Motivation:

Imagine working on a laptop that you frequently connect to different external monitors, such as at your office and home. Each setup might require a distinct screen arrangement. By saving the current screen layout, you can quickly switch to the predefined configuration without manually adjusting the settings every time.

Explanation:

• autorandr: The main command used for managing screen layout profiles.
• --save: This option tells ‘autorandr’ to save the current screen configuration.
• profile_name: You provide a unique name for the profile representing that specific screen setup.

Example Output:

Saving profile 'profile_name'...
Profile 'profile_name' saved successfully.

Use Case 2: Show the Saved Profiles

Code:

autorandr

Motivation:

Over time, you may accumulate several screen configurations. Viewing these profiles can help you quickly identify which ones are available and delete any that are no longer needed. It gives you a concise overview of all your saved configurations, aiding in effective profile management.

Explanation:

• autorandr: Running the command without additional options lists all the saved screen profiles for the current user. It allows you to see the snapshot of all stored profiles at a glance.

Example Output:

Available profiles:
- office_setup
- home_docking
- presentation_mode

Use Case 3: Load the First Detected Profile

Code:

autorandr --change

Motivation:

When you’re in a new location and you have various stored profiles, you might wish for the system to automatically detect and apply the most appropriate screen configuration as soon as a monitor setup is identified. This use case saves time and ensures your workspace is prepared promptly, without the hassle of manual intervention.

Explanation:

• autorandr: The core command executing screen layout changes.
• --change: This option triggers ‘autorandr’ to automatically apply the first detected matching profile from the list of saved profiles.

Example Output:

Applying profile 'office_setup'...
Configuration applied successfully.

Use Case 4: Load a Specific Profile

Code:

autorandr --load profile_name

Motivation:

Imagine planning a specific activity, such as giving a presentation, where you need to use a particular display configuration. By loading a specific profile, you immediately obtain your desired setup with one simple command, ensuring you are prepared and your displays are correctly configured for the task ahead.

Explanation:

• autorandr: The utility’s invocation to manage display settings.
• --load: This switch specifies that you want to load a certain screen configuration.
• profile_name: Indicates the exact profile you wish to activate from your saved setups.

Example Output:

Loading profile 'presentation_mode'...
Profile 'presentation_mode' applied.

Use Case 5: Set the Default Profile

Code:

autorandr --default profile_name

Motivation:

A default profile is useful when you frequently find yourself reverting to a primary screen configuration, such as the layout you use most often at your primary workstation. Designating a default profile provides a fallback option that can be automatically set if no specific profile is detected, ensuring consistency and efficiency in your display management.

Explanation:

• autorandr: The command invocation for screen configuration management.
• --default: This option is used to specify which profile should be set as the default configuration.
• profile_name: Represents the profile to be set as the default, selected from your predefined profiles.

Example Output:

Setting profile 'home_docking' as default...
Profile 'home_docking' is now the default.

Conclusion:

The ‘autorandr’ command provides a powerful and intuitive solution for managing multiple screen layouts. By understanding and leveraging its capabilities in different use cases, users can dramatically enhance their workflow efficiency, facilitate seamless transitions between various environments, and maintain optimal workspace configurations with ease. Whether saving a new layout or reverting to a preferred setup, ‘autorandr’ offers a comprehensive toolkit for screen management.