How may files should I list on the main page

[EMG]

The idea was brought up so I thought I'd ask the users. How many would you like to see on the home page?

[greg142]

(This is written with assumption that the "main Page" is the index of the site)
To give feedback back on the front page, it currently feels like a tmp filler screen.
No information about the site, what is on here or anything like it.
New users have no idea what this site is about, unless they dig into other pages (which is bad for bringing in new people).
it also feel really big and a bit cluttered, there is the side panel, then this giant panel with filled with information, might be overwhelming for some users.
It's also very attention getting, witch is perfect when browsing files, but as the font page it's of putting.
The old front page did a fine job (except for the old news messages giving the impression It's been years since something happened on the site).
i would say files on the front page is a bad idea... for when you are not logged in.
As for how many? It could always be a setting for the users)
side note. I have worked with interface design and user interaction before.. and it's very hard to judge how a user reacts and uses the interface, especially for the person making the interface.

[MN_FriendlyGuy]

Suggested:
Divide the 'Home' page into three frames.

• Use the top frame as a 'splash' page to welcome members and to provide basic navigation & profile instruction needed by first-timers.
  
• Use the middle frame for high-profile advertising (revenue)
  
• Use the bottom frame for a scrollable list of files.