3
$\begingroup$

I am trying to build certain modules in Mathematica 9. I want it to dynamically ask for the directory path ( like file explorer ) when the code cell is executed.

How can I do that ? 

(*================================================= DIRECTORY CONTROL \============================================*)

Directory[];
(*current directory*)
SetDirectory[NotebookDirectory[]];(*set to local roaming directory *)

SetDirectory["File_Directory"];
(* set to local roaming SubDirectory *)
Improve this question
$\endgroup$
1
  • $\begingroup$ @rm-rf -rf Thank you. How can I enable the pop up by default. Shift+Enter should display the folder Browser window. Is there a method to do that ? $\endgroup$
    – Rene Duchamp
    Apr 24, 2013 at 21:58

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
5
$\begingroup$

To choose the directory interactively, use SystemDialogInput, which brings up a native dialog 

SystemDialogInput["Directory"]

enter image description here

If successful, it'll return the chosen directory as a string, or return $Canceled if you select "Cancel".

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$
4
  • $\begingroup$ Exactly what I want. $\endgroup$
    – Rene Duchamp
    Apr 24, 2013 at 22:04
  • $\begingroup$ Any way to add custom message like : choose the sub folder or choose the subsubfolder ... It may create confusion when more than one such dialog pop up right ... $\endgroup$
    – Rene Duchamp
    Apr 24, 2013 at 22:10
  • $\begingroup$ It would be bad UX to have multiple popups appearing at the same time for such a simple (and common) operation. Instead, if you're using something like a Button[] for your interface, consider a descriptive name for the button, such as Button["Choose directory", dir = SystemDialogInput["Directory"]] $\endgroup$
    – rm -rf ♦
    Apr 24, 2013 at 22:13
  • $\begingroup$ Ok sounds good. Thanks a lot ! $\endgroup$
    – Rene Duchamp
    Apr 24, 2013 at 22:17
1
$\begingroup$

Extending R.M's answer:

Button["Choose directory", dir = SystemDialogInput["Directory"], Method -> "Queued"]

works without error.

Improve this answer
$\endgroup$

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.