EF File Catalog 24.08

Overview

EF File Catalog is a file catalog program for Windows. The software starts off blank with the user needing to create a new catalog. Then they create a new group and can proceed to scan that part of the drive. This will populate the catalog with just the details of the file structure which they wish to include but allow them to exclude parts of the storage system which is of little interest.

Once this is done, the user can add details about the areas of their hard drive storage in order to document it properly. Selecting a folder will bring up a detailed list of all the files within that folder. The user can navigate by expanding out the folders and sub folders until they find the folder that they wish to select.

The software supports numerous file archives which it can see inside of and present the files contained within a given archive. Support extends to 7-Zip, TGZ, LHA, GZIP, ISO, ARC, ACE, ARJ, ZIP and many other formats.

File descriptions can be imported automatically. Files stores on CDs like audio tracks can have their information imported online from Freedb.org.

A duplicate file search option exists to search for duplicate files using various filters and broader wildcard searches.

Installation

The software installed without any issues. There were no malicious programs added to the installation.

There is a 32-bit and 64-bit version of EF File Catalog which will run on Windows 95 or later versions. A portable ZIP file version is also available for portable USB flash drives. The software is offered on a 30 day trial basis.

Interface

The interface is a little usual for a package that works with files.

The top-level and second-level down for folders on a hard drive are shown in the left pane. The right pane is reserved for a detailed breakdown for the information on each individual file found within that folder.

File information at the bottom of the window confirmed the number of files selected and their total size, plus the total number of files and their combined size in the current folder.

The interface allows for a greater examination of the contents of individual folders and the files found therein. This catalog can then be taken offline and away from the file system. 

Pros

• File catalog that can import a list of folders and files for an area of a drive
• Encourages examination of all the files stored in a specific folder
• See inside numerous file archives
• Search for duplicate files, add filters and wildcard options
• Save the catalog to be able to show it elsewhere

Cons

• Older interface.

Conclusion

EF File Catalog is a file catalog application that can help a user sort through their hard drive folders one by one in a detailed examination of what is there or share details about its contents offline.