Terminator is a powerful and highly configurable terminal emulator designed for Unix-like operating systems. It allows users to manage multiple terminal sessions in a single window by splitting it horizontally or vertically. Key features include terminal reordering by drag-and-drop, support for multiple profiles, custom keybindings, and simultaneous typing in multiple terminals. Terminator is an excellent choice for users who need to maximize their productivity and manage multiple terminal sessions efficiently.
You have two primary methods to install Terminator on Linux Mint 22, 21, or 20 using the command-line terminal. You can use the default APT repository provided by Linux Mint for a straightforward installation, or you can opt for the Terminator team’s Launchpad PPA to access the latest version with the newest features and updates.
Update Linux Mint System Before Installation
To begin installing Terminator, you must first update your Linux Mint system. This step ensures you have the latest software packages available.
Open the terminal and execute this command:
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgradeThis command updates your system’s package database, ensuring you install the most current version of Terminator available in the Linux Mint repository.
Method 1: Install Terminator via Linux Mint Repository
After updating your system, you can now install Terminator. Use the following command to begin the installation process:
sudo apt install terminatorAnd that is it; for an alternative method, the section covers installing or upgrading the Terminator from a PPA from the Terminator Team.
Method 2: Install Terminator via LaunchPAD PPA
To install the latest version of Terminator, you need to add the Terminator Team’s Personal Package Archive (PPA) to your system. This PPA contains newer versions of Terminator than the default Linux Mint repositories.
Use this command to add the PPA:
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:gnome-terminator/ppa -y
Refresh Package Index After Adding Terminator PPA
Once the PPA is added, refresh your system’s package index. This step ensures your package manager recognizes the newly added PPA and its packages.
Update the package index with this command:
sudo apt updateFinalize Installation of Terminator via APT Command
With the Terminator Team PPA added and the package index updated, you are now ready to install Terminator.
Use the following command to install it from the PPA:
sudo apt install terminatorThis command fetches and installs the latest version of Terminator from the PPA, offering you enhanced terminal emulator features.
Note: If Terminator is installed from the default Linux Mint repository, running the above command will upgrade it to the version available in the PPA.
Launch Terminator on Linux Mint
Launching from the Command-Line Interface (CLI)
To open Terminator using the CLI, access your default terminal emulator and execute this command:
terminatorPress Enter, and Terminator will start, providing an enhanced terminal emulator environment.
Launching from the Desktop Environment
Different desktop environments in Linux Mint offer various application launch methods like Terminator. Here’s how to do it based on your desktop environment:
- Cinnamon, XFCE, KDE:
- Click on the Menu or Application Launcher.
- Type “Terminator” in the search bar.
- Click on the Terminator icon to launch it.
- GNOME:
- GNOME utilizes a different approach. You need to:
- Press
Super(Windows) key to open Activities Overview. - Enter “Terminator” in the search bar.
- Click on the Terminator icon to start the application.
Conclusion
With Terminator successfully installed on your Linux Mint system, you can now take advantage of its advanced terminal management capabilities. Ensure you explore its features, such as split terminals and custom keybindings, to enhance your workflow. Regularly updating Terminator will help you stay on top of any new features or performance enhancements. Enjoy the increased productivity and flexibility that Terminator brings to your terminal sessions.