Evolution of grxvt

Introduction

In my pursuit of honing my C++ skills and modernizing software, I embarked on a project close to my heart - a fork of the well-known terminal emulator urxvt, renamed as "grxvt" in homage to my name, Gabriel. The project not only allowed me to delve into C++ development but also enabled me to tailor the codebase to meet my needs and aspirations. This portfolio entry chronicles my progress, detailing the changes made and the ambitious roadmap I've set for the future.

Project Timeline and Achievements:

Setup Workspace:

• [16/07/23] Forked and cloned the urxvt repository, setting the foundation for my journey.
• [16/07/23] Established a compilation setup, ensuring a seamless development process.
• [16/07/23] Configured debugging capabilities, aiding in effective troubleshooting.

Simplify Project: Decreasing Complexity:

• [16/07/23] Introduced a minimalist approach, making the plain scrollbar the default.
• [17/07/23] Eliminated additional scrollbar variations, streamlining the interface.
• [17/07/23] Positioned the scrollbar consistently on the right side for a unified experience.
• [17/07/23] Removed the scrollbar position option, promoting simplicity.
• [17/07/23] Pruned unused macros like NO_DELETE_KEY and NO_BACKSPACE_KEY.
• [17/07/23] Eliminated Perl support and extensions, enhancing focus.
• [17/07/23] Remove RClock project.
• [18/07/23] Rectified the close frame window button for smooth functionality.
• [18/07/23] Reinstated the scroll-with-mouse capability for enhanced usability.
• [18/07/23] Deprecated outdated configuration mechanisms, paving the way for modernization.

Migrate to CMake:

• [18/07/23] Renamed C++ files, aligning with my project's direction.
• [18/07/23] Revamped the source file directory structure for clarity.
• [18/07/23] Introduced CMake configurations for executables, enhancing build management.

To Do: Future Steps:

• Shedding non-vital macros, reducing code clutter and complexity.
• Standardizing the input policy to a single ISO, ensuring consistency.
• Transitioning the project entirely to CMake, enhancing maintainability.
• Revamping and optimizing code related to Perl hooks, ensuring efficiency.
• Refactoring and improving the input method for a streamlined experience.
• Reworking and expanding text selection capabilities for enhanced usability.
• Incorporating clipboard support to facilitate efficient data transfer.
• Pruning unnecessary customization options, simplifying the user experience.
• Overhauling settings and options files, and refining associated commands.
• Upgrading C++ codebase to leverage modern features and practices.
• Introducing a dedicated settings window, allowing for intuitive customization.
• Creating a context menu to provide convenient user interactions.

Conclusion

My journey with grxvt has been transformative, shaping both my C++ skills and my understanding of software development. Through careful simplification, refactoring, and modernization, I aim to create a leaner, more efficient terminal emulator that stands as a testament to my growth. With a roadmap full of exciting enhancements and features, I'm committed to realizing the full potential of grxvt and sharing it with the developer community.