“fc-cache” is a command-line tool used to scan font directories on a system and build font cache files. Font cache files contain information about the fonts installed on the system, enabling efficient and quick access to fonts by applications and the operating system.
When you run the “fc-cache” command, it scans specified font directories or the default system font directories to locate font files. These font files can be in various formats such as TrueType (TTF), OpenType (OTF), or other supported font formats.
Upon scanning the font directories, “fc-cache” generates or updates font cache files, which are binary files that store metadata and information about each font file discovered. These cache files are used by font rendering engines and font management systems to quickly access and load fonts when needed.
The font cache files created by “fc-cache” contain essential details about each font, including font names, styles, glyph coverage, and other relevant font properties. This information is then used by applications, such as text editors, word processors, and graphic design tools, to render and display text accurately using the available fonts.
The purpose of building font cache files with “fc-cache” is to optimize font loading and rendering performance. By pre-generating the font cache, the operating system and applications can quickly access and identify available fonts without having to scan font directories every time a font is needed. This leads to improved startup times for applications and smoother font rendering experiences.
“fc-cache” is commonly used in Unix-based operating systems like Linux to manage system fonts. It is typically run during the installation or update process of font packages or when manually adding new fonts to the system. By running “fc-cache,” the system ensures that fonts are properly registered and available for use by applications.
fc-cache Command Examples
1. Generate font cache files:
# fc-cache
2. Force a rebuild of all font cache files, without checking if cache is up-to-date:
# fc-cache -f
3. Erase font cache files, then generate new font cache files:
# fc-cache -r
Summary
In summary, “fc-cache” is a command-line tool used to scan font directories and build font cache files. These cache files store metadata and information about fonts installed on the system, enabling quick and efficient font access by applications. By using “fc-cache,” the system optimizes font loading and rendering performance, improving startup times and providing a smoother font experience for users.