Advanced 15 min read Control #12

ListView Control

The ListView displays items in different views (details, list, small icons, large icons). It's like Windows File Explorer.

What is a ListView?

ListView is a versatile control that shows items in multiple views. You can show items as a list, with icons, or in a detailed grid with columns. It's perfect for file managers, contact lists, and media players.

Views: Details, LargeIcon, SmallIcon, List, Tile.

Code Example

// Setup columns for Details view
listView1.Columns.Add("Name", 150);
listView1.Columns.Add("Type", 100);
listView1.Columns.Add("Size", 80);

// Add items with subitems
ListViewItem item = new ListViewItem("Document.txt");
item.SubItems.Add("Text File");
item.SubItems.Add("2 KB");
listView1.Items.Add(item);

// Change view
listView1.View = View.Details;  // Or LargeIcon, SmallIcon, List, Tile

// Use with ImageList
listView1.LargeImageList = imageListLarge;
listView1.SmallImageList = imageListSmall;
item.ImageIndex = 0;

Exercise

Task: Create a simple file explorer using ListView.

  1. Add a ListView with columns: Name, Type, Size, Modified.
  2. Add sample files with icons using ImageList.
  3. Add buttons to change view (Details, Large Icons, Small Icons).
  4. Add a TextBox to search/filter files.
  5. Add a Button to show selected file details.
Key Takeaway

ListView is a powerful control for displaying items in multiple views. Use ImageList to add icons for a professional look.

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Controls