Batch Conversion

Table of Contents

  1. Overview
  2. Workflow
  3. Example
  4. Advanced Batch Features
  5. Output Directory Settings

Overview

Efficiently process multiple files at once with advanced batch processing capabilities.

Workflow

  1. Pass multiple files as arguments (or select them via the file picker)
    • Files can be from different format groups (images, videos, audio, documents, archives)
    • The target format dropdown will show only formats that are valid for all selected file groups
  2. Choose the target format
    • Formats are displayed in alphabetical order
    • The dropdown comes pre-selected with default formats for each file group (configurable)
  3. Select output location:
    • Same directory: Files are converted in place (for batches ≤5 files by default, configurable)
    • Auto-create directory: For 5+ files (configurable threshold), a “converted_files” folder is automatically created
  4. Monitor progress through the batch conversion dialog
    • Shows current file being processed
    • Overall progress (e.g., “3 of 10 files”)
    • Real-time progress updates with sequential processing
  5. Review results: Summary shows successful conversions and any errors

Example

Converting 50 HEIC photos to JPEG:

simplyconvertfile *.heic

Choose “JPEG” format → Files are automatically organized in a “converted_files” directory (configurable).

Advanced Batch Features

Sequential Processing
Files are processed one at a time with real-time progress updates.
Cancellation Support
Cancel at any time with proper cleanup and progress updates.
Error Collection
Detailed error reporting for each failed conversion. The batch continues even if individual files fail.
Mixed Format Support
Cross-format conversions within batch operations with intelligent target format filtering.
Progress Tracking
Real-time updates with timeout callbacks and UI responsiveness.

Output Directory Settings

By default, when converting 5 or more files, SimplyConvertFile creates a converted_files directory in the source location. You can customize this in your user_settings.json:

{
    "directory_creation_threshold": 3,
    "output_directory_name": "converted_files"
}

See Configuration for more details.