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Search Mode

Search Mode provides real-time fuzzy search functionality to quickly find datasets and groups in your HDF5 file. As you type, the tree filters in real-time to show only matching nodes and their parent hierarchy.

Purpose

Search Mode is designed for:

  • Quickly finding specific datasets or groups by name
  • Filtering large hierarchies to focus on relevant items
  • Exploring files with deep or complex structures

Entering Search Mode

From Normal Mode:

  • Press s to enter Search Mode

The search input box will appear at the bottom of the screen and receive focus.

Keyboard Reference

Key Action Description
Enter Accept Results Keep filtered tree and return to Normal Mode
Escape Cancel Search Restore original tree and return to Normal Mode

How It Works

Real-time Filtering

As you type in Search Mode:

  1. The tree filters in real-time using fuzzy matching
  2. Matching nodes are automatically expanded and highlighted
  3. Parent nodes are shown to provide context
  4. Up to 100 best matches are displayed

Fuzzy Matching

The search uses intelligent fuzzy matching:

  • Case-insensitive: "mass" matches "Mass", "MASS", "MaSs"
  • Subsequence matching: All query characters must appear in order
  • Smart scoring: Shorter paths with consecutive matches rank higher

Using The Search Results

Accept Results (Enter):

  • Keeps the filtered tree visible and returns to Normal Mode
  • All mode commands (d, g, w, p, H) work on filtered results
  • Navigate the filtered tree normally

Cancel Search (Escape):

  • Restores the tree to its state before search
  • Returns to Normal Mode
  • Maintains any previously expanded nodes

Restore to Initial (r in Normal Mode):

  • Press r in Normal Mode to reset tree completely
  • Collapses all nodes except root
  • Clears any filtered results
  • Returns tree to state when file was first opened