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MacOS qlmanage command

The MacOS qlmanage command allows users to interact with Quick Look plugins, preview files, debug plugins, and much more. With qlmanage, users can generate thumbnails, view metadata, and even export content. This versatile command can be used to get a sneak peek at various file types without the need to open them in separate applications. By utilizing qlmanage, users can streamline their workflow and access file information with just a few keystrokes.

qlmanage Syntax:

Terminal window
qlmanage [option] [parameter]

Options:

OptionDescription
-pPreview the file
-tDisplay the type of the file
-xRemove cached previews for the file

Parameters:

ParameterDescription
fileThe file you want to manage

qlmanage Usage:

Preview an Image File

Terminal window
qlmanage -p image.jpg

This command will show a Quick Look preview of the image file “image.jpg”.

Display Help Information

Terminal window
qlmanage -h

Displays the help information to learn about the available options and arguments for qlmanage.

Generate a Thumbnail for a PDF File

Terminal window
qlmanage -t -s 512 -o . document.pdf

Generates a thumbnail image of the PDF file “document.pdf” with a size of 512 pixels and saves it in the current directory.

Clear Quick Look Cache

Terminal window
qlmanage -r cache

Clears the Quick Look cache, which can help troubleshoot issues related to Quick Look previews.

{EXAMPLES}

How do I use qlmanage in MacOS?

To use the qlmanage command in MacOS, execute the following command:

Terminal window
qlmanage -p <file_path>

What is the purpose of qlmanage in MacOS?

The qlmanage command in MacOS is used to interact with Quick Look, allowing users to generate Quick Look previews for specified files.

How can I list available options with qlmanage in MacOS?

To list available options with qlmanage in MacOS, run the following command:

Terminal window
qlmanage -h

How can I display a Quick Look preview using qlmanage in MacOS?

To display a Quick Look preview using qlmanage in MacOS, use the following command:

Terminal window
qlmanage -p <file_path>

Can I get detailed information about a file with qlmanage in MacOS?

Yes, you can get detailed information about a file using qlmanage in MacOS by running the command:

Terminal window
qlmanage -r info <file_path>

How do I set a custom thumbnail size with qlmanage in MacOS?

To set a custom thumbnail size with qlmanage in MacOS, use the following command:

Terminal window
qlmanage -t /path/to/image.png -s 200

Is it possible to refresh the Quick Look cache using qlmanage in MacOS?

Yes, you can refresh the Quick Look cache using qlmanage in MacOS with the following command:

Terminal window
qlmanage -r

Applications of the qlmanage command

  1. Previewing Quick Look thumbnails for files
  2. Generating Quick Look previews for files
  3. Inspecting Quick Look properties of files
  4. Setting preferences for Quick Look
  5. Clearing the Quick Look cache