Weekly Computer Tip # 322
21 November 2010

How to display all icons in the taskbar notification area (Windows XP)

Back in September I told you how to resize the taskbar so that it will display today's day as well as the date. (See http://www.roem.co.uk/tip_320.html if you missed it.)

Lots of you seemed to like that tip, apart from the fact that the height of the taskbar gets a bit too deep. Mind you, you probably got used to it by now? If not, why not fill it with the icons in the "notification area" to the left of the date? By default, Windows hides icons that you haven't clicked recently, which means that every time you want to, say, safely remove your USB stick you have to do an extra click. OK, Microsoft thinks it helps to keep the area uncluttered, but I like it to display all icons.

Here's how:

1. Right-click an empty area on the taskbar and then click "Properties"
2. Untick "Hide inactive icons".
3. Click OK.

By the way, I will soon make the step to Windows 7, offering training as from next year, so bear with me if you have already upgraded.

Until next week.

PS I’m committed to sharing the best of what I know with others so please don’t keep me a secret. If you enjoyed today’s tip, please forward it to anyone you feel may benefit. Alternatively, feel free to reprint it (with full copyright and subscription information) in your newsletters and message boards.

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