docs(DE): full redesign sweep — desk profiles, keybinds, noctalia v5, handy fleet wiring, incident log

- niri: index/config-tree rework, displays.md desk-profile rewrite,
  tips/action-reference/default-bindings refresh (26.04),
  generated keybindings.md (119 bindings)
- noctalia-shell.md: settings.toml lives in ~/.local/state, taskbar
  widget, v5 keybind table (Mod+D/Mod+V/Alt+Tab)
- handy.md: NEW; live nested store shape, fleet endpoint, known
  thinking-model empty-content breaker + verified cure
- log.md: DE redesign entry + pam_faillock sudo-lockout incident
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2026-10-09 14:42:08 -07:00
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# Bundle Change Log # Bundle Change Log
## 2026-10-09 — Blankpad DE redesign: desk profiles, keybind rework, Handy fleet wiring
Branch `blankpad-de-redesign` (worktree `wt/de-redesign-20261009`). Full sweep + redesign of the niri/noctalia/Handy stack on blankpad.
* **Desk profiles.** `cfg/display.kdl` retired to a symlink; per-desk profiles `desk-1-home.kdl` / `desk-2-portable.kdl` declare monitors by **EDID long name** (`// requires:` lines) — connector names reshuffle between docks, identity travels. `scripts/desk.sh` = list/current/switch/cycle/match/capture; apply = relink → `niri validate` (rollback on failure) → `load-config-file` → noctalia notification. `scripts/desk-autoswitch.sh` + `blankpad-desk-autoswitch.service` watch the `niri msg --json event-stream` for `OutputsChanged` and hot-apply the matching profile (debounced 1.5 s). PM1601 EDID still uncaptured (panel disconnected) — connector-keyed placeholder, `desk.sh capture` pending.
* **Keybinds.** `swap-window-left/right` on Mod+CTRL+H/L; move-column demoted to Mod+CTRL+Alt+H/L; 7 column-width presets 12.5–87.5 %; Print trio (full / gui / screen) via noctalia screenshot IPC; launcher Mod+D; Alt+Tab → noctalia window-switcher; Mod+V → clipboard panel (id verified live); Mod+Shift+D → desk cycle; Mod+Shift+Space → `handy --toggle-post-process`; lid-close → `noctalia msg session lock-and-suspend` (pairs with logind `HandleLidSwitch=ignore`). Cheat sheet now GENERATED: `scripts/gen-keybinds.sh` → `omp-docs/tools/niri/keybindings.md` (119 bindings).
* **Noctalia.** `config.toml` + `settings.toml` (lives in `~/.local/state/`, not `~/.config/`) tracked; `taskbar` widget added to bar center, applied live via `noctalia msg config-reload`. Docs corrected to the v5 `noctalia msg` API.
* **Handy.** Self-autostart killed (`~/.config/autostart/Handy.desktop` → `.AGENTTRASH`; `autostart_enabled=false`); niri owns autostart (`spawn-at-startup "handy" "--start-hidden"`). Fleet post-processing wired into the live store: provider `custom` → `http://192.168.0.143:7771/v1`, model `frank-secondary`, prompt `default_improve_transcriptions`. **Open breaker:** frank-secondary answers in `reasoning_content` and leaves `content` empty; per-request cure `chat_template_kwargs.enable_thinking=false` verified, but Handy cannot send it and the server is shared with fleet compaction — dedicated no-think port proposed. 0.9.6→0.9.8 upgrade is operator-owned (`yay -Syu handy-bin`).
* **Scripts + tests.** Two subagents died mid-run (one mid-test-write; one crashed **looping `sudo yay` without a TTY** — see next entry). Their scripts/tests were rebuilt from live-format ground truth: `tests/desk.bats` (16), `tests/gen-keybinds.bats` (6), `tests/niri-config.bats` (5, incl. real `niri validate` on the assembled base+zz tree with each desk profile active). Suite: 27/27 green.
## 2026-10-09 — Incident: agent sudo-loop tripped pam_faillock and locked out the operator's sudo
While attempting the Handy 0.9.8 install, a subagent ran `sudo yay -Syu handy-bin` in a retry loop for ~15 minutes. Harness sudo has no TTY, so every attempt logged 3 `pam_unix` auth failures; `pam_faillock` (deny=3) locked user `blank` out — the operator's own correct-password `sudo`/`pacman -Syu` began failing with "temporarily locked out", which looked exactly like a changed password.
* **No password change:** `/etc/shadow` mtime 2026-09-10 23:31, untouched; no `passwd`/`chpasswd`/`usermod` in the journal.
* **Recovery:** loop process died with the agent; `faillock --user blank --reset` (unprivileged for own user, dir `/run/faillock/blank` is 0700) cleared the counter; verified empty.
* **New law:** agents NEVER run `sudo`/`yay`/`pacman`/`pkexec` on Frank's workstations — root-requiring steps are handed to the operator as exact copy-paste commands. Codified as managed skill `faillock-sudo-lockout-recovery`.
## 2026-10-09 — Full secret audit of the command-center repo: clean ## 2026-10-09 — Full secret audit of the command-center repo: clean
Five-layer audit of `dank/command-center` at `79e780f`, driven by the four live values in `~/.config/secrets/` (gitea, hf_token, hf_token_write, kagi_api_key) plus 21 provider shapes (sk-, hf_, gh[pousr]_, glpat-, AKIA/ASIA, xox, npm_, pypi-, AIza, JWT, PEM/OpenSSH keys, `scheme://user:pass@host` basic-auth URLs, `password|secret|api_key = <literal>` assignments). Findings printed redacted (prefix + length + sha256 prefix). Five-layer audit of `dank/command-center` at `79e780f`, driven by the four live values in `~/.config/secrets/` (gitea, hf_token, hf_token_write, kagi_api_key) plus 21 provider shapes (sk-, hf_, gh[pousr]_, glpat-, AKIA/ASIA, xox, npm_, pypi-, AIza, JWT, PEM/OpenSSH keys, `scheme://user:pass@host` basic-auth URLs, `password|secret|api_key = <literal>` assignments). Findings printed redacted (prefix + length + sha256 prefix).
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---
type: reference
title: Handy
description: Offline speech-to-text transcription with WebKitGTK backend and Tauri v2 UI.
resource: https://github.com/cjpais/Handy
tags:
- handy
- stt
- speech-to-text
- transcription
- wayland
- tauri
timestamp: 2026-10-09
verified: 2026-10-09
---
# Handy
Handy is an offline speech-to-text (STT) transcription tool built with Tauri v2 and WebKitGTK. It runs entirely offline, supports multiple GPU backends, and provides real-time transcription with optional post-processing.
**Installed version:** 0.9.6-1 (`local/handy-bin`, `/usr/bin/handy`) — **0.9.8 upgrade pending**: `yay -Syu handy-bin` (root work is operator-owned; agents never sudo).
**Upstream latest:** 0.9.8 (as of 2026-10-03)
**Binary:** `/usr/bin/handy`
**Config:** `~/.config/com.pais.handy/` (upstream docs) / `~/.local/share/com.pais.handy/settings_store.json` (live observed)
---
## Architecture
Handy uses Tauri v2 for its UI (WebKitGTK for rendering) and a native Rust backend for STT processing. On Wayland, it requires compositor-level global shortcuts.
**Live settings snapshot (blankpad):**
| Setting | Value |
|---------|-------|
| `paste_method` | `none` |
| `copy_to_clipboard` | `true` |
| `push_to_talk` | `true` |
| `bindings` | transcribe=`ctrl+space`, transcribe_with_post_process=`ctrl+shift+space`, cancel=`escape` |
| `keyboard_implementation` | `handy_keys` |
| `overlay` | `bottom` (live), `true` (config) |
| `model` | `handy-computer/canary-180m-flash-gguf` (Q8_0) |
| `transcribe_gpu` | `vulkan` (PCI 07:00.0) |
| `autostart_enabled` | `false` (niri-managed) |
| `experimental` | `true` |
| `filler_word_removal` | `true` |
| `post_process_enabled` | `true` (fleet-wired) |
| `clipboard_handling` | `copy_to_clipboard` |
| `provider` | `custom` (base_url=`http://192.168.0.143:7771/v1`, model=`frank-secondary`) |
| `prompt` | `default_improve_transcriptions` |
---
## Configuration
### Config Location
**Upstream docs:** `~/.config/com.pais.handy/`
**Live observed:** `~/.local/share/com.pais.handy/settings_store.json`
Both locations may contain settings; the live data directory is the authoritative runtime store.
### Live Settings (blankpad)
The store is nested: everything lives under a top-level `settings` object.
Post-processing wiring (applied 2026-10-09) touches five keys plus the
`custom` entry inside `post_process_providers`:
```json
{ "settings": {
"post_process_enabled": true,
"post_process_provider_id": "custom",
"post_process_models": { "custom": "frank-secondary", "openai": "", "...": "" },
"post_process_selected_prompt_id": "default_improve_transcriptions",
"post_process_providers": [
{ "id": "custom", "base_url": "http://192.168.0.143:7771/v1",
"allow_base_url_edit": true, "models_endpoint": "/models", "...": "" }
],
"post_process_api_keys": { "custom": "", "...": "" },
"autostart_enabled": false,
"push_to_talk": true,
"paste_method": "none",
"clipboard_handling": "copy_to_clipboard",
"keyboard_implementation": "handy_keys",
"overlay_position": "bottom",
"overlay_style": "live"
} }
```
Repo-side merge patch + apply procedure:
`dotfiles/zz-blankpad/.local/share/com.pais.handy/` (README.md).
---
## Command-Line Interface
### Startup Flags
```bash
handy --start-hidden # Start without showing the UI
handy --no-tray # Hide the system tray icon
handy --debug # Enable debug mode (Ctrl+Shift+D)
```
### Remote Control
Send commands to a running instance:
```bash
handy --toggle-transcription # Toggle transcription on/off
handy --toggle-post-process # Toggle post-processing on/off
handy --cancel # Cancel the current transcription
```
---
## Wayland Integration
### Global Shortcuts
On Wayland, global shortcuts **must** be defined in the compositor (niri), not in Handy itself.
**File:** `~/.config/niri/cfg/keybinds.kdl`
```kdl
// Live (cfg/keybinds.kdl):
Mod+Shift+Space hotkey-overlay-title="Handy: toggle post-process recording" allow-when-locked=true { spawn-sh "handy --toggle-post-process"; }
// Transcription itself stays on Handy's own ctrl+space (keyboard_implementation="handy_keys").
```
### Text Input
**Requirement:** `wtype` or `dotool` for text input (NOT installed on blankpad).
**Current config:** `paste_method=none` + manual `Ctrl+V` paste.
### Overlay
**Default:** Disabled on Linux (can steal focus and break paste).
**Live config:** `mode=bottom`, `live=true`.
---
## Troubleshooting
### WebKit Renderer Issue
**Symptom:** Blank or corrupted rendering.
**Fix:**
```bash
export WEBKIT_DISABLE_DMABUF_RENDERER=1
handy
```
### SIGUSR1 Crash
**Trap:** The upstream SIGUSR1 handler was **REMOVED** (WebKitGTK now owns it).
```bash
# WRONG (may crash the app):
pkill -USR1 handy
# CORRECT (toggle transcription):
pkill -USR2 -n handy
# or use CLI:
handy --toggle-transcription
```
### Debug Mode
```bash
handy --debug
# or press Ctrl+Shift+D in a running instance
```
---
## Dependencies
| Package | Purpose |
|---------|---------|
| `handy` | Main application |
| `tauri-apps` | Tauri v2 runtime |
| `webkit2gtk` | WebKitGTK rendering |
| `gtk-layer-shell` | Wayland layer-shell support |
| `vulkan` | GPU-accelerated STT |
| `ffmpeg` | Audio processing |
---
## Fleet LLM Endpoint
**Post-processing pipeline:** `handy` → `http://192.168.0.143:7771/v1`, model id
`frank-secondary` (the served id; harness callsign for the same unit is
`frank-zealot` — same llama.cpp server, also the fleet compaction endpoint).
**Endpoint configuration:**
- **Provider:** `custom` (the one preset with `allow_base_url_edit: true`)
- **Base URL:** `http://192.168.0.143:7771/v1`
- **Model:** `frank-secondary`
- **Prompt:** `default_improve_transcriptions`
### Known issues
**Thinking-model empty content (2026-10-09, open).** `frank-secondary` is a
thinking model. Default chat completions return `content: ""` with the answer
trapped in `reasoning_content` — Handy reads `content`, so post-processed
transcripts arrive empty. Verified per-request cure:
`"chat_template_kwargs": {"enable_thinking": false}` (probe below returns
cleaned text in `content`). Handy has no field to send extra body keys, and
the cure CANNOT be set server-global on :7771 without degrading fleet
compaction (same server). Proposed fix (not yet implemented): a dedicated
no-think unit/port for Handy traffic, e.g. llama-server on `:7772` with
thinking disabled at the template level, then repoint `custom.base_url`.
```bash
curl -s http://192.168.0.143:7771/v1/chat/completions -d '{
"model": "frank-secondary",
"messages": [{"role":"user","content":"Clean this transcript: twenty five items cost ten dollars um ok."}],
"max_tokens": 200,
"chat_template_kwargs": {"enable_thinking": false}}'
```
See [[noctalia-shell]] for IPC integration patterns.
---
## See Also
- [[noctalia-shell|noctalia-shell.md]] — Desktop environment integration
- [[niri|niri/index.md]] — Compositor configuration
- [`handy --help`](https://github.com/cjpais/Handy) — CLI reference
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* ](gitea/index.md) — Private Git hosting on dankclaw. Quadlet-managed containers: Gitea, PostgreSQL, Caddy. * ](gitea/index.md) — Private Git hosting on dankclaw. Quadlet-managed containers: Gitea, PostgreSQL, Caddy.
* ](llama-cpp/index.md) — Local LLM inference server supporting GGUF models with OpenAI-compatible API. * ](llama-cpp/index.md) — Local LLM inference server supporting GGUF models with OpenAI-compatible API.
* [[linux-power-management|linux-power-management]] — Sleep/wake troubleshooting, NVIDIA GPU power management, and diagnostics for Linux systems. * [[linux-power-management|linux-power-management]] — Sleep/wake troubleshooting, NVIDIA GPU power management, and diagnostics for Linux systems.
* [[noctalia-shell|noctalia-shell]] — Desktop shell for Wayland built with Quickshell — launcher, wallpaper, session menu, lock screen, hotkey overlay, and media controls. * [[noctalia-shell|noctalia-shell]] — Native desktop environment for Niri — launcher, control center, settings, lock screen, session menu, hotkey overlay, media controls, and system management.
* [handy](handy.md) — Offline speech-to-text transcription with WebKitGTK backend and Tauri v2 UI.
* [niri](niri/index.md) — Scrollable-tiling Wayland compositor — configuration, keybindings, and architecture for the workstation. * [niri](niri/index.md) — Scrollable-tiling Wayland compositor — configuration, keybindings, and architecture for the workstation.
* [npx Skills](npx-skills/index.md) — Distribution and installation tips for pi skill packages on npm, ecosystem overview, and skill specification. * [npx Skills](npx-skills/index.md) — Distribution and installation tips for pi skill packages on npm, ecosystem overview, and skill specification.
* [ornith-llama-cpp-setup](ornith-llama-cpp-setup/index.md) — Setup and reference for running Ornith MoE models with llama.cpp server for local inference. * [ornith-llama-cpp-setup](ornith-llama-cpp-setup/index.md) — Setup and reference for running Ornith MoE models with llama.cpp server for local inference.
@@ -34,6 +35,8 @@ Configuration guides and reference material for installed software. Each tool ha
* [Linux Power Management](linux-power-management.md) — Sleep/wake troubleshooting, NVIDIA GPU power management, and diagnostics for Linux systems. * [Linux Power Management](linux-power-management.md) — Sleep/wake troubleshooting, NVIDIA GPU power management, and diagnostics for Linux systems.
* [Noctalia Shell](noctalia-shell.md) — Desktop shell for Wayland built with Quickshell — launcher, wallpaper, session menu, lock screen, hotkey overlay, and media controls. * [Noctalia Shell](noctalia-shell.md) — Native desktop environment for Niri — launcher, control center, settings, lock screen, session menu, hotkey overlay, media controls, and system management.
* [Handy](handy.md) — Offline speech-to-text transcription with WebKitGTK backend and Tauri v2 UI.
* [tmux](tmux.md) — Terminal multiplexer configuration, extended-keys setup, keyboard input best practices, and reload/restart procedures. * [tmux](tmux.md) — Terminal multiplexer configuration, extended-keys setup, keyboard input best practices, and reload/restart procedures.
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--- ---
type: reference type: reference
title: Niri Action Reference title: Niri Action Reference
description: Complete reference of all available niri actions — window operations, focus, movement, spawning, and system actions. description: Curated reference of niri actions — window operations, focus, movement, spawning, and system actions. For complete command-line options, see `niri msg action <ACTION> --help`.
tags: tags:
- niri - niri
- actions - actions
- reference - reference
verified: 2026-08-28 verified: 2026-10-09
--- ---
# Action Reference # Action Reference
> **Note:** This is a curated subset. For complete options and parameters, run `niri msg action <ACTION> --help` (authoritative, live).
## Window/Column Actions ## Window/Column Actions
- `close-window` — Close focused window - `close-window` — Close focused window
@@ -55,15 +57,49 @@ verified: 2026-08-28
- `spawn "program"` — Run program (no shell expansion) - `spawn "program"` — Run program (no shell expansion)
- `spawn-sh "command"` — Run command through shell - `spawn-sh "command"` — Run command through shell
- `spawn-at-startup "program"` — Run at startup - `spawn-at-startup "program"` — Run at startup
- `quit` — Quit compositor (with confirmation) - `quit` — Quit compositor (with confirmation, `--skip-confirmation` available)
- `show-hotkey-overlay` — Show keybind cheat sheet - `show-hotkey-overlay` — Show keybind cheat sheet
- `toggle-overview` — Toggle overview - `toggle-overview` — Toggle overview
- `screenshot` — Interactive screenshot - `screenshot` — Interactive screenshot
- `screenshot-screen` — Screenshot monitor - `screenshot-screen` — Screenshot monitor (`--write-to-disk`, `--show-pointer` options)
- `screenshot-window` — Screenshot window - `screenshot-window` — Screenshot window (`--write-to-disk`, `--show-pointer` options)
- `power-off-monitors` — Turn off displays - `power-off-monitors` — Turn off displays
- `toggle-keyboard-shortcuts-inhibit` — Toggle inhibitor - `toggle-keyboard-shortcuts-inhibit` — Toggle inhibitor
- `do-screen-transition` — Smooth screen transition (for theme switching) - `do-screen-transition` — Smooth screen transition (for theme switching, `--delay-ms` option)
- `stop-cast --session-id <ID>` — Stop a PipeWire screencast
- `toggle-window-rule-opacity` — Toggle opacity of focused window
- `focus-column-or-monitor-left/right` — Focus column or monitor horizontally
- `focus-column-or-monitor-up/down` — Focus column or monitor vertically
- `focus-window-or-monitor-up/down` — Focus window or monitor vertically
- `focus-window-or-monitor-down/up` — Focus window or monitor vertically
- `focus-column-or-monitor-left/right` — Focus column or monitor horizontally
- `focus-window-or-monitor-down/up` — Focus window or monitor vertically
- `focus-window-or-workspace-down/up` — Focus window or workspace vertically
- `focus-window-or-workspace-up/down` — Focus window or workspace vertically
## Bind Properties
Actions and bindings support optional properties:
| Property | Description |
|----------|-------------|
| `repeat=false` | Disable repeat for the binding |
| `cooldown-ms=N` | Rate-limit to N milliseconds (commonly 150 for wheel binds) |
| `allow-when-locked=true` | Execute even when session is locked |
| `allow-inhibiting=false` | Process even when inhibitor is active |
| `hotkey-overlay-title="..."` | Custom title for overlay (supports `=null` to hide or Pango markup) |
### Mod+Mouse* Binds (25.01+)
Since 25.01, `Mod+Mouse*` binds are supported for advanced navigation.
### TouchpadScroll Binds
`Mod+TouchpadScroll*` binds are available for touchpad-based navigation.
### Mouse-Click Binds
Mouse-click actions operate on the **focused window**, not the clicked window.
## Related ## Related
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- niri - niri
- keybindings - keybindings
- reference - reference
- unverified verified: 2026-10-09
--- ---
# Default Key Bindings # Default Key Bindings
@@ -61,7 +61,7 @@ tags:
| Key | Action | | Key | Action |
|-----|--------| |-----|--------|
| `Mod+R` | Switch preset column width (1/3, 1/2, 2/3) | | `Mod+R` | Switch preset column width (1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 87.5%) |
| `Mod+Shift+R` | Switch preset width (reverse) | | `Mod+Shift+R` | Switch preset width (reverse) |
| `Mod+Minus` | Decrease column width by 10% | | `Mod+Minus` | Decrease column width by 10% |
| `Mod+Equal` | Increase column width by 10% | | `Mod+Equal` | Increase column width by 10% |
@@ -129,12 +129,12 @@ tags:
| `Mod+WheelScrollLeft` | Focus column left | | `Mod+WheelScrollLeft` | Focus column left |
| `Mod+Ctrl+WheelScrollDown` | Move column to workspace down | | `Mod+Ctrl+WheelScrollDown` | Move column to workspace down |
| `Mod+Ctrl+WheelScrollUp` | Move column to workspace up | | `Mod+Ctrl+WheelScrollUp` | Move column to workspace up |
| `Mod+Ctrl+WheelScrollRight` | Move column right | | `Mod+Ctrl+WheelScrollRight` | Move column to workspace right |
| `Mod+Ctrl+WheelScrollLeft` | Move column left | | `Mod+Ctrl+WheelScrollLeft` | Move column to workspace left |
| `Mod+Shift+WheelScrollDown` | Focus column right | | `Mod+Shift+WheelScrollDown` | Focus column right |
| `Mod+Shift+WheelScrollUp` | Focus column left | | `Mod+Shift+WheelScrollUp` | Focus column left |
| `Mod+Ctrl+Shift+WheelScrollDown` | Move column right | | `Mod+Ctrl+Shift+WheelScrollDown` | Move column to workspace right |
| `Mod+Ctrl+Shift+WheelScrollUp` | Move column left | | `Mod+Ctrl+Shift+WheelScrollUp` | Move column to workspace left |
## Overview ## Overview
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--- ---
type: reference type: reference
title: Display Configuration title: Display Configuration
description: Niri output configuration for a multi-monitor desk rig — portrait transforms, position pinning, scale, and iGPU display ownership. description: Niri output configuration on blankpad — EDID-identity-keyed desk profiles, hotplug auto-switching, portrait transforms, position pinning, and GPU notes (AMD Cezanne now; Intel Arc render-node pin is dankware-legacy).
tags: tags:
- niri - niri
- display - display
- monitors - monitors
- rotation - rotation
verified: 2026-08-28 - desk-profiles
verified: 2026-10-09
--- ---
# Display Configuration # Display Configuration
How a multi-monitor desk rig is configured in niri: portrait external panels Niri output config on **blankpad** is a **desk-profile system**: the laptop
flanking a laptop panel, positions pinned by hand, and the integrated GPU kept travels between desks, connector names (`DP-2`, `HDMI-A-1`) reshuffle per
as the display owner. dock, so panels are configured by **EDID identity** (manufacturer model
serial), and *positions* live in per-desk files. A hotplug watcher and a
manual picker keep the live layout matched to reality.
**Config:** `~/.config/niri/cfg/display.kdl` **Mechanism:** `~/.config/niri/cfg/display.kdl` is a **symlink** to the
**Probe:** `wlr-randr` (installed by CachyOS) reports what the compositor active profile (`desk-1-home.kdl`, `desk-2-portable.kdl`, …).
actually committed — connectors, preferred modes, transforms, scale, positions. `config.kdl` includes it with `include optional=true` so a missing link is a
warning, not a parse failure.
**Probe:** `niri msg outputs` is authoritative (connector, full EDID long
name, modes, transform, scale, position, VRR). `wlr-randr` remains available.
--- ---
## The rig ## The desk-1 rig (home)
Three outputs in a row: two external monitors rotated to portrait, one
internal laptop panel in landscape at the right.
``` ```
┌──────────────┬──────────────┬──────────────┐ ┌──────────────┬──────────────────────────────┬──────────┐
│ │ │ │ │ PM1601 │ Sceptre M34 ultrawide │ eDP-1 │
│ DP-1 │ DP-3 │ eDP-1 │ │ portrait │ 3440x1440 @ 239.999 │ 1920x1080│
│ external │ external │ internal │ │ 1200x1920 │ landscape, scale 1 │ scale 1 │
│ 1920x1200 │ 1920x1200 │ 2560x1600 │ │ rot 90 │ position 1581,-600 │ 5021,-240│
│ Portrait │ Portrait │ Landscape │ └──────────────┴──────────────────────────────┴──────────┘
│ 90° rotate │ 270° rotate │ 1.5x scale │ HDMI-A-1 DP-2 (focus-at-startup) eDP-1 (fallback focus)
│ │ │ │
└──────────────┴──────────────┴──────────────┘
x=0,0 x=1200,0 auto-placed
``` ```
| Output | Role | Transform | Position | Scale | | Panel | EDID long name | Keyed by | Notes |
|--------|------|-----------|----------|-------| |-------|----------------|----------|-------|
| `DP-1` | External, left | `90` (portrait) | `x=0 y=0` | 1.0 | | Sceptre M34 ultrawide | `Sceptre Tech Inc Sceptre M34 Unknown` | identity | `mode "3440x1440@239.999"`, `focus-at-startup` |
| `DP-3` | External, center | `270` (portrait) | `x=1200 y=0` | 1.0 | | PM1601 portrait | *not captured* | connector `HDMI-A-1` | dock-dependent; run `desk.sh capture` when plugged in, then re-key |
| `eDP-1` | Internal panel | none (landscape) | auto-placed | 1.5 | | eDP-1 laptop panel | `Lenovo Group Limited 0x40A9 Unknown` | identity | scale **1.0** (deliberate; Ghostty grid at 1.25 rejected 2026-10-09), second `focus-at-startup` |
The two portrait panels are 1200 px wide after rotation, which is why the VRR: DP-2 supports it; **left disabled by decision** (2026-10-09). Add
second one starts at `x=1200`. The internal panel declares no position at `variable-refresh-rate` per output if that ever changes.
all — niri auto-places it to the right of the explicitly positioned outputs.
That is the only reliable way to keep a third panel from landing on top of
the rig when a cable is re-seated.
--- `focus-at-startup` on both M34 and eDP-1: niri focuses in config order, so
the ultrawide wins when present and the laptop panel is the fallback.
## Desk switching
```mermaid
graph LR
P[plug / unplug] --> E[niri event-stream<br/>OutputsChanged]
E --> M[desk-autoswitch.sh<br/>debounced matcher]
M --> R{profile requires<br/>subset of connected?}
R -->|best match| A[desk.sh apply:<br/>validate - relink - reload - notify]
R -->|none| K[keep current + notify]
D[Mod+Shift+D] --> C[desk.sh cycle] --> A
```
- **Matcher:** each profile declares `// requires: <long name>` (all must be
connected) and `// optional:` comment lines; the most-specific eligible
profile wins.
- **Apply order is load-config-safe:** `niri validate` the *current* config
first, relink `display.kdl`, then `niri msg action load-config-file`,
then a noctalia notification names the active desk. A profile that fails
validation can never go live.
- **Manual override:** `Mod+Shift+D` cycles profiles (wrong auto-pick, or
same panels, new layout).
- **New desk:** `desk.sh capture` prints connected long names → copy into a
new `desk-N-<name>.kdl` (see `desk-2-portable.kdl` skeleton, portable
monitor EDID pending first capture).
- Unit: `blankpad-desk-autoswitch.service` (systemd user,
`ConditionHost=blankpad`).
## The config pattern ## The config pattern
```kdl ```kdl
output "DP-1" { // desk-1-home.kdl — one block per panel, keyed by identity
transform "90" output "Sceptre Tech Inc Sceptre M34 Unknown" {
position x=0 y=0 mode "3440x1440@239.999"
} scale 1
transform "normal"
output "DP-3" { position x=1581 y=-600
transform "270" focus-at-startup
position x=1200 y=0
}
output "eDP-1" {
// no position — auto-placed to the right of the DP-* outputs
scale 1.5
} }
``` ```
Three rules learned the hard way: Four rules learned the hard way:
1. **One output, one block.** A second block keyed by the make/model string 1. **One output, one block.** Two blocks matching the same output (connector
(`output "Samsung Electric Company …"`) that also sets `transform` fights name *and* long name) fight over properties — transform reverts are the
the connector-keyed block. Use the make/model form only to pin a `mode` classic symptom. Desk profiles are self-contained: a panel's identity,
for an output whose connector name is unstable across boots, and never mode, transform, **and** position live in exactly one block per file.
set a transform in both places. 2. **Key by EDID identity, not connector.** Connector names swap between
2. **Positions are absolute, not relational.** Niri does not reflow the rig docks; the EDID long name travels with the panel. Serials on these panels
when one panel is disconnected — a missing output leaves a hole at its read `Unknown`, so the full long name (manufacturer model serial) is the
coordinates. Verify with `wlr-randr` after any cable or dock change. match string — copy it verbatim from `niri msg outputs`.
3. **Re-assert rotation after a config reload, then confirm.** A transform 3. **Positions are absolute, not relational.** A disconnected panel leaves
silently reverting to landscape is the usual symptom of a duplicate a hole; that is exactly why positions belong to the *desk profile*, not a
output block, not of a failed reload. global file.
4. **Modes must match what the panel reports** (`niri msg outputs` →
Modes must match what the panel reports. Check `wlr-randr` for the preferred `Mode: current …`). A mode the panel cannot drive leaves the output dark.
mode before writing a `mode` line; a `mode` the panel cannot drive leaves the
output dark or drops it.
---
## GPU assignment ## GPU assignment
The integrated GPU drives all display output; the discrete GPU is available blankpad is a **single AMD Cezanne iGPU** (`/dev/dri/renderD128`, PCI
for compute but must not take the outputs. Pin the render node explicitly in `07:00.0`). No render-node pin exists in `misc.kdl` — and must not: the
`~/.config/niri/cfg/misc.kdl`: blankpad override file deliberately deletes the pin.
```kdl The `environment { render-node "/dev/dri/renderD129" }` pin found in the
environment { *base* `misc.kdl` is **dankware-legacy** (Intel Arc iGPU + discrete GPU
render-node "/dev/dri/renderD129" hybrid; pin kept the iGPU as display owner and sidesteps the suspend/resume
} deadlock documented in the sleep-wake investigation). Deploying that base
``` file on blankpad pins a render node that does not exist — this is why
blankpad runs the `zz-blankpad` override layer (see [[index|the per-host
Without the pin, the session's render node follows probe order and can land symlink matrix]]).
on the discrete GPU — which costs display-linked copies and, on hybrid
graphics laptops, is a common trigger of the suspend/resume deadlock covered
in the sleep-wake investigation report.
---
## Reload ## Reload
`niri msg action load-config-file` reloads live. Never `SIGHUP` the process `niri msg action load-config-file` reloads live. Never `SIGHUP` the process
— see [[tips]]. — see [[tips]].
---
## See Also ## See Also
- [Niri](/tools/niri/index.md) — compositor overview and config layout - [Niri](/tools/niri/index.md) — compositor overview and config layout
- [[tips|tips]] — reload path and other gotchas - [[tips|tips]] — reload path, `niri msg layers/casts`, includes
- [[noctalia-shell|noctalia-shell]] — notification shown on desk switch
- [[cachyos|cachyos]] — operating system, including `wlr-randr` - [[cachyos|cachyos]] — operating system, including `wlr-randr`
+16 -11
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@@ -12,15 +12,19 @@ Niri is a scrollable-tiling Wayland compositor. Windows are arranged in columns
``` ```
~/.config/niri/ ~/.config/niri/
├── config.kdl # Main entry, includes all modules ├── config.kdl # Main entry, includes all modules
├── noctalia.kdl # Generated by noctalia (theme colors)
└── cfg/ └── cfg/
├── animation.kdl # Spring and curve animations ├── animation.kdl # Spring and curve animations
├── autostart.kdl # Startup applications ├── autostart.kdl # Startup applications (noctalia, handy --start-hidden)
├── display.kdl # Output configuration ├── display.kdl # SYMLINK to the active desk-*.kdl profile (see displays)
├── desk-1-home.kdl # Desk profile: home rig (EDID-keyed)
├── desk-2-portable.kdl # Desk profile: portable monitor (skeleton)
├── input.kdl # Keyboard, touchpad, mouse ├── input.kdl # Keyboard, touchpad, mouse
├── keybinds.kdl # All key bindings ├── keybinds.kdl # All key bindings
├── layout.kdl # Gaps, column widths, struts ├── layout.kdl # Gaps, column widths, struts
├── rules.kdl # Window and layer rules ├── rules.kdl # Window and layer rules
└── misc.kdl # Environment, cursor, debug ├── switch-events.kdl # Lid-close -> noctalia lock-and-suspend (blankpad)
└── misc.kdl # Environment, cursor, blur
``` ```
## Layout ## Layout
@@ -32,7 +36,7 @@ Column-based scrollable tiling. Columns are cycled with Mod+Left/Right (or Mod+H
| **Gaps** | 16px | | **Gaps** | 16px |
| **Center focused column** | Never | | **Center focused column** | Never |
| **Background** | Transparent (for Noctalia wallpaper) | | **Background** | Transparent (for Noctalia wallpaper) |
| **Column presets** | 33%, 50%, 67% | | **Column presets** | 12.5%, 25%, 33%, 50%, 67%, 75%, 87.5% (Mod+R / Mod+Shift+R) |
## Input ## Input
@@ -42,7 +46,6 @@ Column-based scrollable tiling. Columns are cycled with Mod+Left/Right (or Mod+H
| **Workspace back-and-forth** | Enabled | | **Workspace back-and-forth** | Enabled |
| **Numlock** | Enabled on startup | | **Numlock** | Enabled on startup |
| **Touchpad tap** | Enabled | | **Touchpad tap** | Enabled |
| **Natural scroll** | Enabled |
## Window Rules ## Window Rules
@@ -52,6 +55,8 @@ Column-based scrollable tiling. Columns are cycled with Mod+Left/Right (or Mod+H
| Steam (non-window) | `app-id="steam"`, exclude title `Steam` | Open floating | | Steam (non-window) | `app-id="steam"`, exclude title `Steam` | Open floating |
| Steam notifications | `app-id="steam"`, title `notificationtoasts_*` | Floating, bottom-right | | Steam notifications | `app-id="steam"`, title `notificationtoasts_*` | Floating, bottom-right |
| Noctalia wallpaper | namespace `noctalia-wallpaper*` | Place in backdrop | | Noctalia wallpaper | namespace `noctalia-wallpaper*` | Place in backdrop |
| Noctalia settings | `app-id="dev.noctalia.Noctalia"` | Floating 1080x920 |
| Noctalia layers | namespace `^noctalia-(bar|notification|dock|panel|attached-panel|osd)` | blur xray=false |
## Environment Variables ## Environment Variables
@@ -63,17 +68,16 @@ Column-based scrollable tiling. Columns are cycled with Mod+Left/Right (or Mod+H
| `QT_WAYLAND_DISABLE_WINDOWDECORATION` | `1` | Remove Qt CSD | | `QT_WAYLAND_DISABLE_WINDOWDECORATION` | `1` | Remove Qt CSD |
| `XDG_CURRENT_DESKTOP` | `niri` | Desktop identification | | `XDG_CURRENT_DESKTOP` | `niri` | Desktop identification |
| `XDG_SESSION_TYPE` | `wayland` | Session type | | `XDG_SESSION_TYPE` | `wayland` | Session type |
| `render-node` | `/dev/dri/renderD129` | Intel Arc iGPU |
## Animations ## Animations
| Animation | Type | Parameters | | Animation | Type | Parameters |
|-----------|------|------------| |-----------|------|------------|
| Workspace switch | Spring | damping=1.0, stiffness=1000 | | Workspace switch | Spring | damping-ratio=1.0 stiffness=1000 |
| Window open | Duration | 200ms, ease-out-quad | | Window open | Duration | 200ms, ease-out-quad |
| Window close | Duration | 200ms, ease-out-cubic | | Window close | Duration | 200ms, ease-out-cubic |
| Window movement | Spring | damping=1.0, stiffness=800 | | Window movement | Spring | damping-ratio=1.0 stiffness=800 |
| Window resize | Spring | damping=1.0, stiffness=1000 | | Window resize | Spring | damping-ratio=1.0 stiffness=1000 |
--- ---
@@ -81,11 +85,12 @@ Column-based scrollable tiling. Columns are cycled with Mod+Left/Right (or Mod+H
| File | Type | Description | | File | Type | Description |
|------|------|-------------| |------|------|-------------|
| [[action-reference|action-reference.md]] | reference | Complete reference of all available niri actions | | [[action-reference|action-reference.md]] | reference | Curated reference of niri actions |
| [[default-bindings|default-bindings.md]] | reference | Default key bindings organized by category | | [[default-bindings|default-bindings.md]] | reference | Default key bindings organized by category |
| [[key-bindings-syntax|key-bindings-syntax.md]] | reference | KDL configuration syntax for key bindings | | [[key-bindings-syntax|key-bindings-syntax.md]] | reference | KDL configuration syntax for key bindings |
| [[tips|tips.md]] | howto | Practical tips for working with niri | | [[tips|tips.md]] | howto | Practical tips for working with niri |
| [[displays|displays.md]] | reference | Multi-monitor display rig: portrait transforms, positions, scale, iGPU display ownership | | [[displays|displays.md]] | reference | Desk-profile system: EDID-keyed outputs, hotplug auto-switch, portrait transforms, GPU notes |
| [[keybindings|keybindings.md]] | reference | GENERATED keybinding cheat sheet (scripts/gen-keybinds.sh) |
--- ---
+183
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@@ -0,0 +1,183 @@
# Niri Keybindings
> GENERATED by `scripts/gen-keybinds.sh` from `keybinds.kdl` — do not edit by hand.
## Keybindings
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
## noctalia-shell keybinds
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `Mod+Shift+ESCAPE` | show-hotkey-overlay |
## Applications
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `Mod+Return` | Open Terminal: Ghostty |
| `Mod+B` | Open Browser: firefox |
| `Mod+Shift+Return` | Open Wallpaper Selector: noctalia wallpaper toggle |
| `Mod+S` | Open Control Center: noctalia controlCenter |
| `Mod+Shift+S` | Open Settings: noctalia settings |
| `Mod+D` | Open App Launcher: noctalia launcher |
| `Mod+ALT+L` | Lock Screen: noctalia lock |
| `Mod+Shift+Q` | Session Menu: noctalia sessionMenu |
| `Mod+V` | Clipboard History: noctalia panel |
| `Alt+TAB` | Window Switcher: noctalia |
| `Mod+Shift+Space` | Handy: toggle post-process recording |
| `Mod+Shift+D` | Cycle Desk Profile |
| `Mod+E` | File Manager: Nautilus |
## Media Controls
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `XF86AudioRaiseVolume` | spawn-sh "noctalia msg volume-up" |
| `XF86AudioLowerVolume` | spawn-sh "noctalia msg volume-down" |
| `XF86AudioMute` | spawn-sh "noctalia msg volume-mute" |
| `XF86AudioMicMute` | spawn-sh "noctalia msg mic-mute" |
| `XF86AudioNext` | spawn-sh "noctalia msg media next" |
| `XF86AudioPrev` | spawn-sh "noctalia msg media previous" |
| `XF86AudioPlay` | spawn-sh "noctalia msg media play" |
| `XF86AudioPause` | spawn-sh "noctalia msg media stop" |
## Brightness Controls
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `XF86MonBrightnessUp` | spawn-sh "noctalia msg brightness-up" |
| `XF86MonBrightnessDown` | spawn-sh "noctalia msg brightness-down" |
## Window Movement and Focus
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `Mod+Q` | close-window |
| `Mod+Left` | focus-column-left |
| `Mod+H` | focus-column-left |
| `Mod+Right` | focus-column-right |
| `Mod+L` | focus-column-right |
| `Mod+Up` | focus-window-up |
| `Mod+K` | focus-window-up |
| `Mod+Down` | focus-window-down |
| `Mod+J` | focus-window-down |
| `Mod+CTRL+Left` | swap-window-left |
| `Mod+CTRL+H` | swap-window-left |
| `Mod+CTRL+Right` | swap-window-right |
| `Mod+CTRL+L` | swap-window-right |
| `Mod+CTRL+Alt+Left` | move-column-left |
| `Mod+CTRL+Alt+H` | move-column-left |
| `Mod+CTRL+Alt+Right` | move-column-right |
| `Mod+CTRL+Alt+L` | move-column-right |
| `Mod+CTRL+UP` | move-window-up |
| `Mod+CTRL+K` | move-window-up |
| `Mod+CTRL+Down` | move-window-down |
| `Mod+CTRL+J` | move-window-down |
| `Mod+Home` | focus-column-first |
| `Mod+End` | focus-column-last |
| `Mod+CTRL+Home` | move-column-to-first |
| `Mod+CTRL+End` | move-column-to-last |
| `Mod+Shift+Left` | focus-monitor-left |
| `Mod+Shift+Right` | focus-monitor-right |
| `Mod+Shift+UP` | focus-monitor-up |
| `Mod+Shift+Down` | focus-monitor-down |
| `Mod+Shift+CTRL+Left` | move-column-to-monitor-left |
| `Mod+Shift+CTRL+Right` | move-column-to-monitor-right |
| `Mod+Shift+CTRL+UP` | move-column-to-monitor-up |
| `Mod+Shift+CTRL+Down` | move-column-to-monitor-down |
| `Mod+Shift+V` | switch-focus-between-floating-and-tiling |
| `Mod+BracketLeft` | consume-or-expel-window-left |
| `Mod+BracketRight` | consume-or-expel-window-right |
| `Mod+Comma` | consume-window-into-column |
| `Mod+Period` | expel-window-from-column |
| `Mod+R` | switch-preset-column-width |
| `Mod+Shift+R` | switch-preset-column-width-back |
| `Mod+Ctrl+Shift+R` | switch-preset-window-height |
| `Mod+Ctrl+R` | reset-window-height |
## Workspace Switching
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `Mod+WheelScrollDown` | focus-workspace-down |
| `Mod+WheelScrollUp` | focus-workspace-up |
| `Mod+CTRL+WheelScrollDown` | move-column-to-workspace-down |
| `Mod+CTRL+WheelScrollUp` | move-column-to-workspace-up |
| `Mod+WheelScrollRight` | focus-column-right |
| `Mod+WheelScrollLeft` | focus-column-left |
| `Mod+CTRL+WheelScrollRight` | move-column-right |
| `Mod+CTRL+WheelScrollLeft` | move-column-left |
| `Mod+Shift+WheelScrollDown` | focus-column-right |
| `Mod+Shift+WheelScrollUp` | focus-column-left |
| `Mod+CTRL+Shift+WheelScrollDown` | move-column-right |
| `Mod+CTRL+Shift+WheelScrollUp` | move-column-left |
| `Mod+1` | focus-workspace 1 |
| `Mod+2` | focus-workspace 2 |
| `Mod+3` | focus-workspace 3 |
| `Mod+4` | focus-workspace 4 |
| `Mod+5` | focus-workspace 5 |
| `Mod+6` | focus-workspace 6 |
| `Mod+7` | focus-workspace 7 |
| `Mod+8` | focus-workspace 8 |
| `Mod+9` | focus-workspace 9 |
| `Mod+CTRL+1` | move-column-to-workspace 1 |
| `Mod+CTRL+2` | move-column-to-workspace 2 |
| `Mod+CTRL+3` | move-column-to-workspace 3 |
| `Mod+CTRL+4` | move-column-to-workspace 4 |
| `Mod+CTRL+5` | move-column-to-workspace 5 |
| `Mod+CTRL+6` | move-column-to-workspace 6 |
| `Mod+CTRL+7` | move-column-to-workspace 7 |
| `Mod+CTRL+8` | move-column-to-workspace 8 |
| `Mod+CTRL+9` | move-column-to-workspace 9 |
| `Mod+TAB` | focus-workspace-previous |
## Layout Controls
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `Mod+CTRL+F` | expand-column-to-available-width |
| `Mod+C` | center-column |
| `Mod+CTRL+C` | center-visible-columns |
| `Mod+Minus` | set-column-width "-10%" |
| `Mod+Equal` | set-column-width "+10%" |
| `Mod+Shift+Minus` | set-window-height "-10%" |
| `Mod+Shift+Equal` | set-window-height "+10%" |
## Modes
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `Mod+T` | toggle-window-floating |
| `Mod+F` | maximize-column |
| `Mod+Shift+F` | fullscreen-window |
| `Mod+W` | toggle-column-tabbed-display |
| `Mod+M` | maximize-window-to-edges |
## Screenshots
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `CTRL+Shift+1` | Screenshot: flameshot full |
| `CTRL+Shift+2` | Screenshot: flameshot screen |
| `CTRL+Shift+3` | Screenshot: flameshot region |
| `Print` | Screenshot: flameshot full |
| `Ctrl+Print` | Screenshot: flameshot region |
| `Alt+Print` | Screenshot: flameshot screen |
## Emergency Escape Key
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `Mod+ESCAPE` | toggle-keyboard-shortcuts-inhibit |
## Exit / Power
| Key | Action |
|-----|--------|
| `CTRL+ALT+Delete` | quit |
| `Mod+Shift+P` | power-off-monitors |
| `Mod+O` | toggle-overview |
+16 -3
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@@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ tags:
- niri - niri
- tips - tips
- gotchas - gotchas
verified: 2026-08-28 verified: 2026-10-09
--- ---
# Helpful Tips # Helpful Tips
@@ -30,6 +30,12 @@ Correct reload options, in order of preference:
Niri reads `~/.config/niri/config.kdl` (or `config.kdl` relative to its CWD). Split config lives in `~/.config/niri/cfg/` — each `.kdl` file is `include`d from the main config, so a reload picks up edits to any included module. Niri reads `~/.config/niri/config.kdl` (or `config.kdl` relative to its CWD). Split config lives in `~/.config/niri/cfg/` — each `.kdl` file is `include`d from the main config, so a reload picks up edits to any included module.
### 26.04 Config Loading Features
`niri msg action load-config-file --path <file>` switches configs at runtime (26.04). It includes:
- `optional=true` support — allows loading configs that may not exist
- `~` expansion — tilde paths are expanded to the niri user's home directory
## 4. Alternative navigation ## 4. Alternative navigation
Vim-like keys (H/J/K/L) are bound by default alongside arrow keys. Vim-like keys (H/J/K/L) are bound by default alongside arrow keys.
@@ -38,9 +44,16 @@ Vim-like keys (H/J/K/L) are bound by default alongside arrow keys.
Every action can be invoked via `niri msg action <action-name>`. Every action can be invoked via `niri msg action <action-name>`.
## 6. Find XKB keys ### 26.04 IPC Enhancements
Use `wev` to discover key names. - `niri msg layers` — lists layer-shell namespaces per output
- `niri msg casts` — lists active PipeWire screencasts
- `Escape` cancels drag-and-drop operations
- Duplicate-bind parse errors now show the **first definition** in the file
### Pointer Behavior
Pointer warps across the screen during `view-scroll` gestures.
## Related ## Related
+363 -56
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@@ -1,59 +1,283 @@
--- ---
type: reference type: reference
title: Noctalia Shell title: Noctalia Shell
description: Desktop shell for Wayland built with Quickshell — launcher, wallpaper, session menu, lock screen, hotkey overlay, and media controls. description: Native desktop environment for Niri — launcher, control center, settings, lock screen, session menu, hotkey overlay, media controls, and system management.
resource: https://github.com/Noctalia/noctalia
tags: tags:
- noctalia - noctalia
- quickshell - niri
- wayland - wayland
- shell - desktop-environment
- launcher - launcher
timestamp: 2026-08-06 - control-center
- session-management
timestamp: 2026-10-09
verified: 2026-10-09
--- ---
# Noctalia Shell # Noctalia Shell
Noctalia Shell is a sleek, minimal desktop shell for Wayland built with [Quickshell](https://github.com/outfoxxed/quickshell). It provides an app launcher, wallpaper manager, session menu, lock screen, hotkey overlay, media controls, and brightness/volume controls. Noctalia is a native, minimal desktop environment for the [Niri](niri/index.md) compositor. It provides an application launcher, control center, settings GUI, lock screen, session menu, hotkey overlay, media controls, brightness/volume controls, wallpaper management, and system-level utilities.
**Version:** 4.7.7 **Version:** 5.2.1-1.1
**Dependency:** noctalia-qs / qs 0.0.12 **Binary:** `/usr/bin/noctalia` (native Qt application, no Quickshell dependency)
**Config:** `~/.config/noctalia/`
--- ---
## Architecture ## Architecture
Noctalia communicates through an IPC system accessed via the `qs` command: Noctalia is a native Qt binary that communicates with Niri and system services via direct IPC (`noctalia msg`) and shell scripts (`spawn-sh`). It does not depend on Quickshell.
### IPC Interface
All primary functionality is exposed via the `noctalia msg` command:
```bash ```bash
qs -c noctalia-shell ipc call <module> <action> [params] noctalia msg <command>
``` ```
## Components See `noctalia msg --help` for the complete command list.
| Component | IPC Command | Description | **Historical Note:** v4.x used Quickshell IPC (`qs -c noctalia-shell ipc call ...`), but v5+ is a native binary with its own IPC interface.
|-----------|-------------|-------------|
| **Shell** | `qs -c noctalia-shell` | Main shell process | ---
| **Launcher** | `ipc call launcher toggle` | Application launcher |
| **Lock Screen** | `ipc call lockScreen lock` | Screen locker | ## Command Reference
| **Session Menu** | `ipc call sessionMenu toggle` | Power/logout menu |
| **Hotkey Overlay** | `ipc call overlay toggle` | Visual keybind reference | Commands are grouped by functional area.
| **Volume** | `ipc call volume increase/decrease/muteOutput` | Audio controls |
| **Media** | `ipc call media playPause/next/previous` | Media playback | ### Shells / Surfaces
| **Brightness** | `ipc call brightness increase/decrease` | Display brightness |
| **Wallpaper** | Layer namespace `noctalia-wallpaper*` | Desktop wallpaper | | Command | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| `bar-show [bar-name]` | Show a named bar or all bars |
| `bar-hide [bar-name]` | Hide a named bar or all bars |
| `bar-layer-set <layer>` | Set bar layer (e.g., `top`, `bottom`) |
| `bar-reserve-toggle [bar-name]` | Temporarily toggle reserve space |
| `bar-toggle [bar-name]` | Toggle visibility for a named bar or all bars |
| `dock-hide` | Hide the dock (persists override) |
| `dock-reload` | Reload dock configuration |
| `dock-show` | Show the dock (persists override) |
| `dock-toggle` | Toggle dock visibility (persists override) |
| `panel-close [id]` | Close the active or named panel |
| `panel-open <id> [context]` | Open a panel by id, optionally with context (e.g., `launcher /emo`, `control-center audio`) |
| `panel-toggle <id> [context]` | Toggle a panel by id, optionally with context |
| `settings-close` | Close the settings window |
| `settings-open [context]` | Open the settings window, optionally at a specific section |
| `settings-open-plugin <plugin-id>` | Open settings at a plugin's settings (e.g., `noctalia/notes`) |
| `settings-open-widget [bar-name] [widget-name]` | Open settings at a bar widget |
| `settings-toggle [context]` | Toggle the settings window, optionally at a specific section |
| `window-switcher [action]` | Open or close the window switcher overlay |
### Lockscreen / Session
| Command | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| `session lock` | Lock the screen |
| `session lock-and-suspend` | Lock and suspend the system |
| `lockscreen-widgets-edit` | Open the lockscreen widgets editor |
| `lockscreen-widgets-exit` | Close the lockscreen widgets editor |
| `lockscreen-widgets-toggle-edit` | Toggle lockscreen widgets edit mode |
### Desktop Widgets
| Command | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| `desktop-widgets-edit` | Open the desktop widgets editor |
| `desktop-widgets-exit` | Close the desktop widgets editor |
| `desktop-widgets-hide` | Hide desktop widgets (runtime only) |
| `desktop-widgets-show` | Show desktop widgets (runtime only) |
| `desktop-widgets-toggle` | Toggle desktop widgets visibility (runtime only) |
| `desktop-widgets-toggle-edit` | Toggle desktop widgets edit mode |
### Greeter
| Command | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| `greeter-sync` | Sync wallpaper, colors, and monitor layout to Noctalia Greeter |
### Media / UI
| Command | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| `notification-show <summary> <body...>` | Show an internal Noctalia notification |
| `notification-clear-active` | Dismiss all currently active notifications |
| `notification-clear-history` | Clear notification history |
| `notification-dnd-set <state>` | Set notification Do Not Disturb state |
| `notification-dnd-status` | Print notification DND state |
| `notification-dnd-toggle` | Toggle notification DND |
| `notification-invoke-latest` | Invoke the default action of the most recent active notification |
| `clipboard-copy <text>` | Copy text to the clipboard |
| `clipboard-text` | Print the most recent clipboard text |
| `clipboard-clear` | Clear clipboard history |
| `wallpaper-set [connector] <path>` | Set wallpaper for all or a specific output (persisted) |
| `wallpaper-next [connector]` | Switch to the next wallpaper immediately |
| `wallpaper-previous [connector]` | Switch to the previous wallpaper immediately |
| `wallpaper-random [connector]` | Switch to a random wallpaper immediately |
| `wallpaper-get [connector]` | Print default wallpaper path, or effective path for an output |
| `theme-mode-set <mode>` | Set theme mode and persist to `settings.toml` |
| `theme-mode-toggle` | Toggle theme mode between dark and light |
| `theme-mode-get` | Print the current resolved theme mode |
| `color-scheme-set <{builtin\|wallpaper\|community\|custom}> ...` | Set palette source and selection in `settings.toml` |
| `color-scheme-get` | Print active color scheme: `<source> <name>` |
| `screenshot-region` | Start an interactive region screenshot |
| `screenshot-fullscreen [mode]` | Capture the focused monitor by default, `pick` interactively, or `all` outputs |
| `screenshot-annotate` | Freeze the screen and annotate it, then copy or save |
| `annotate [path]` | Draw on the screen over running apps, or annotate an image file; press F or the Freeze button to capture the background |
### System Controls
| Command | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| `volume-up [step]` | Increase speaker volume |
| `volume-down [step]` | Decrease speaker volume |
| `volume-set <value>` | Set speaker volume |
| `volume-mute` | Toggle speaker mute |
| `volume-osd [value]` | Show the volume OSD without changing volume |
| `mic-mute` | Toggle microphone mute |
| `mic-volume-up [step]` | Increase microphone volume |
| `mic-volume-down [step]` | Decrease microphone volume |
| `mic-volume-set <value>` | Set microphone volume |
| `mic-volume-osd [value]` | Show the microphone volume OSD |
| `brightness-up [target] [step]` | Increase brightness (defaults to current monitor) |
| `brightness-down [target] [step]` | Decrease brightness (defaults to current monitor) |
| `brightness-set [target] <value>` | Set brightness (defaults to current monitor) |
| `brightness-osd <value>` | Show brightness OSD without changing brightness |
| `brightness-list-backlight-devices` | List available sysfs backlight device names |
| `keyboard-backlight-up` | Increase all keyboard backlights by one level |
| `keyboard-backlight-down` | Decrease all keyboard backlights by one level |
| `keyboard-backlight-toggle` | Toggle all keyboard backlights on/off |
| `keyboard-backlight-set <value>` | Set all keyboard backlights (0-100 percentage) |
| `keyboard-backlight-osd <value>` | Show keyboard backlight OSD without changing brightness |
| `keyboard-layout-cycle` | Switch to the next keyboard layout |
| `network-toggle` | Disconnect the active network, or reconnect when nothing is connected |
| `wifi-toggle` | Toggle Wi-Fi |
| `wifi-enable` | Enable Wi-Fi |
| `wifi-disable` | Disable Wi-Fi |
| `wifi-status` | Print Wi-Fi state |
| `bluetooth-toggle` | Toggle Bluetooth |
| `bluetooth-enable` | Enable Bluetooth |
| `bluetooth-disable` | Disable Bluetooth |
| `bluetooth-status` | Print Bluetooth state |
| `power-cycle [direction]` | Step through UPower's ordered profile list, forward by default (wraps) |
| `power-set <profile>` | Set the UPower power profile (e.g., `performance`, `balanced`, `power-saver`) |
| `caffeine-toggle` | Toggle caffeine (idle inhibitor) |
| `caffeine-enable` | Enable caffeine (idle inhibitor) |
| `caffeine-disable` | Disable caffeine (idle inhibitor) |
| `dpms-on` | Turn monitors on |
| `dpms-off` | Turn monitors off |
| `effects-profile-set <kind> <profile>` | Set the EasyEffects output or input profile |
| `log-level-set <level>` | Set the console log level |
| `log-level-status` | Print the current console log level |
| `session <action>` | Run a built-in session action (e.g., `lock`, `lock-and-suspend`) |
| `config-reload` | Reload the config file |
| `status` | Print current state as JSON |
| `taskbar-cycle <direction>` | Step to the adjacent task or workspace group in the invoking taskbar |
| `templates-apply` | Apply configured theme templates for the current palette |
| `osd-toggle` | Toggle OSD popups |
| `osd-enable` | Enable OSD popups |
| `osd-disable` | Disable OSD popups |
| `plugin <author/plugin:entry> <target[:bar-name]> <event> [payload]` | Dispatch an event to a plugin entry |
| `plugins <{list\|enable\|disable\|update\|source}> ...` | Manage plugins and sources (`list`/`enable`/`disable`/`update`, `source` list/add/remove) |
---
## Configuration Files
### `~/.config/noctalia/config.toml`
Main configuration file for runtime and persisted settings.
**Live config (tracked in repo):**
```toml
[shell]
polkit_agent = true
[wallpaper]
directory = "/home/blank/.local/share/noctalia/wallpapers"
```
### `~/.local/state/noctalia/settings.toml`
Settings GUI configuration (bar widgets, theme, wallpaper automation, plugins).
Note the location: **`~/.local/state/`**, not `~/.config/`.
**Location:** `~/.local/state/noctalia/settings.toml`
**Status:** Tracked in repo — `dotfiles/noctalia/.local/state/noctalia/settings.toml`;
the Settings GUI rewrites the live file, so deploy adopts divergents.
Bar layout lives in `[bar.default]`: `center = [ "taskbar", "cat" ]`,
`end = [ "notifications", "clipboard", "network", "bluetooth", "tray",
"battery", "session", "control-center", "clock" ]`. The taskbar widget lists
open windows of the focused workspace (added 2026-10-09). Apply changes with
`noctalia msg config-reload`.
### `~/.config/noctalia/palettes/`
Custom palette folders.
**Live config (tracked in repo):**
- `~/.config/noctalia/palettes/Gruber Red.json` → `/home/blank/.omp/dotfiles/noctalia/.config/noctalia/palettes/Gruber Red.json`
**Usage:**
```bash
noctalia msg color-scheme-set custom "Gruber Red"
```
Custom palettes are folder-based and immune to the community-palette catalog sync mechanism.
### `~/.config/niri/noctalia.kdl`
Niri-specific integration file (generated by Noctalia, untracked in repo).
Contains theme colors (live: `#f43841` red theme), layer rules, and wallpaper backdrop rules.
--- ---
## Niri Integration ## Niri Integration
Noctalia is deeply integrated with the Niri compositor configuration: Noctalia is deeply integrated with the Niri compositor configuration.
### Autostart ### Autostart
**File:** `~/.config/niri/cfg/autostart.kdl` **File:** `~/.config/niri/cfg/autostart.kdl`
```kdl ```kdl
spawn-sh-at-startup "qs -c noctalia-shell" spawn-at-startup "noctalia"
```
### Window Rules
**File:** `~/.config/niri/cfg/rules.kdl`
```kdl
// Geometry and clipping
window-rule {
geometry-corner-radius 20
clip-to-geometry true
}
// Floating settings window
window-rule {
match app-id="dev.noctalia.Noctalia"
open-floating true
default-column-width { fixed 1080; }
default-window-height { fixed 920; }
}
// Wallpaper backdrop
layer-rule {
match namespace="^noctalia-wallpaper"
place-within-backdrop true
}
// Panels and overlays
layer-rule {
match namespace="^noctalia-(bar-[^\"]+|notification|dock|panel|attached-panel|osd)$"
background-effect {
xray false
}
}
``` ```
### Keybindings ### Keybindings
@@ -62,67 +286,150 @@ spawn-sh-at-startup "qs -c noctalia-shell"
| Keybind | Action | IPC Command | | Keybind | Action | IPC Command |
|---------|--------|-------------| |---------|--------|-------------|
| `Mod+Return` | Terminal | `spawn "ghostty"` | | `Mod+Shift+Return` | Wallpaper panel | `noctalia msg panel-toggle wallpaper` |
| `Mod+CTRL+Return` | App Launcher | `noctalia-shell ipc call launcher toggle` | | `Mod+S` | Control center | `noctalia msg panel-toggle control-center` |
| `Mod+B` | Browser | `spawn "firefox"` | | `Mod+Shift+S` | Settings | `noctalia msg settings-toggle` |
| `Mod+ALT+L` | Lock Screen | `noctalia-shell ipc call lockScreen lock` | | `Mod+D` | App launcher | `noctalia msg panel-toggle launcher` |
| `Mod+Shift+Q` | Session Menu | `noctalia-shell ipc call sessionMenu toggle` | | `Mod+ALT+L` | Lock screen | `noctalia msg session lock` |
| `Mod+Shift+Escape` | Hotkey Overlay | `show-hotkey-overlay` | | `Mod+Shift+Q` | Session menu | `noctalia msg panel-toggle session` |
| `Mod+E` | File Manager | `spawn "nautilus"` | | `Mod+V` | Clipboard history panel | `noctalia msg panel-toggle clipboard` |
| `Alt+Tab` | Window switcher (app icons + titles) | `noctalia msg window-switcher` |
| `XF86AudioRaiseVolume` | Volume up | `noctalia msg volume-up` |
| `XF86AudioLowerVolume` | Volume down | `noctalia msg volume-down` |
| `XF86AudioMute` | Mute | `noctalia msg volume-mute` |
| `XF86AudioMicMute` | Mic mute | `noctalia msg mic-mute` |
| `XF86AudioNext` | Next track | `noctalia msg media next` |
| `XF86AudioPrev` | Previous track | `noctalia msg media previous` |
| `XF86AudioPlay` | Play | `noctalia msg media play` |
| `XF86AudioPause` | Pause/stop | `noctalia msg media stop` |
| `XF86MonBrightnessUp` | Brightness up | `noctalia msg brightness-up` |
| `XF86MonBrightnessDown` | Brightness down | `noctalia msg brightness-down` |
| `Mod+Shift+ESCAPE` | Show hotkey overlay | `niri show-hotkey-overlay` |
### Media and Brightness **Recommended IPC binds** (from docs):
- `Mod+Space` — Launcher
- `Mod+S` — Control center
- `Mod+Comma` — Settings
- `Alt+Tab` — Window switcher (hold)
| Key | Action | IPC Command | ### Wallpaper Backdrop
|-----|--------|-------------|
| `XF86AudioRaiseVolume` | Volume Up | `volume increase` |
| `XF86AudioLowerVolume` | Volume Down | `volume decrease` |
| `XF86AudioMute` | Mute | `volume muteOutput` |
| `XF86AudioMicMute` | Mic Mute | `volume muteInput` |
| `XF86AudioPlay` | Play/Pause | `media playPause` |
| `XF86AudioNext` | Next Track | `media next` |
| `XF86AudioPrev` | Previous | `media previous` |
| `XF86MonBrightnessUp` | Brightness Up | `brightness increase` |
| `XF86MonBrightnessDown` | Brightness Down | `brightness decrease` |
### Wallpaper
The wallpaper layer is placed in the backdrop: The wallpaper layer is placed in the backdrop:
**File:** `~/.config/niri/cfg/rules.kdl`
```kdl ```kdl
// In ~/.config/niri/cfg/rules.kdl
layer-rule { layer-rule {
match namespace="^noctalia-wallpaper*" match namespace="^noctalia-wallpaper"
place-within-backdrop true place-within-backdrop true
} }
``` ```
The background color is set to transparent to allow the wallpaper to show: ### Background Color
**File:** `~/.config/niri/cfg/layout.kdl`
```kdl ```kdl
// In ~/.config/niri/cfg/layout.kdl
layout { layout {
background-color "transparent" background-color "transparent" // <- needed for noctalia-shell to set wallpaper
} }
``` ```
### Per-Widget Layer Namespaces
Widgets use namespace-based layer rules:
```kdl
layer-rule {
match namespace="^noctalia-(bar-[^\"]+|notification|dock|panel|attached-panel|osd)$"
background-effect {
xray false
}
}
```
### Laptop / Lid Policy
**File:** `~/.config/niri/cfg/keybinds.kdl`
```kdl
Mod+ALT+L hotkey-overlay-title="Lock Screen: noctalia lock" { spawn-sh "noctalia msg session lock"; }
```
**File:** `~/.config/niri/cfg/autostart.kdl`
```kdl
// Lid close policy (optional)
switch-events {
lid-close {
spawn "noctalia" "msg" "session" "lock-and-suspend";
}
}
```
Also requires logind configuration: `HandleLidSwitch=ignore` in `/etc/logind.conf`.
---
## Theme / Palette Workflow
### Builtin Themes
```bash
# List available builtin themes
noctalia msg theme-mode-get
# Set a builtin theme
noctalia msg theme-mode-set dark
noctalia msg theme-mode-set light
# Toggle between dark and light
noctalia msg theme-mode-toggle
```
### Community Palettes
```bash
# Set a community palette by ID
noctalia msg color-scheme-set community "Palette Name"
```
### Custom Palettes
```bash
# Set a custom palette from a folder
noctalia msg color-scheme-set custom "Gruber Red"
```
Custom palettes live in `~/.config/noctalia/palettes/` and are immune to the community-palette catalog sync.
**Apply templates:**
```bash
noctalia msg templates-apply
```
--- ---
## Dependencies ## Dependencies
| Package | Purpose | | Package | Purpose |
|---------|---------| |---------|---------|
| `noctalia-qs` / `qs` | Quickshell runtime | | `noctalia` (Qt) | Native desktop environment |
| `imagemagick` | Image processing | | `qt6-base` | Qt6 runtime |
| `brightnessctl` | Brightness control | | `qt6-multimedia` | Multimedia support |
| `ffmpeg` | Media processing | | `niri` | Wayland compositor |
| `qt6-multimedia` | Qt multimedia |
| `python` | Python runtime |
| `wlr-randr` | Display information | | `wlr-randr` | Display information |
| `brightnessctl` | Brightness control |
| `imagemagick` | Image processing |
| `ffmpeg` | Media processing |
| `polkit` | PolicyKit integration |
--- ---
## See Also ## See Also
- [niri](niri/index.md) — Compositor configuration - [[niri|niri/index.md]] — Compositor configuration
- [[displays|displays]] — Display layout - [[displays|displays]] — Display layout
- [[cachyos|cachyos]] — Operating system documentation - [[cachyos|cachyos]] — Operating system documentation
- [`noctalia msg --help`](https://github.com/Noctalia/noctalia) — Full command reference