Learn To Use the Taskbar Better - Part II

Last week's tip introduced you to the powers of the Windows taskbar. This week, I will give you more info about the taskbar so you can customize and understand it even further.

The last tip I left you with in Part I is the fact that you can run multiple programs at the same time. The maximum limit is based on your computers power. If your system has at least 256 megabytes of RAM, you can easily run up to four program simultaneously. With 512 megabytes of RAM, feel free to have up to 6 programs running at the same time.

The exception to the rule above is programs that require maximum RAM (memory). Adobe Photoshop (full version), computer aided drafting (CAD) programs, large role playing or sports type games, video editing programs, and audio editing programs. When running this type of software, it is wise to be more conservative and run these programs solo...even with large amounts of RAM.

As mentioned in last week's tip, the taskbar places a 'button' for each program you are currently running. If you run multiple programs and the taskbar become too cluttered, you can increase the size of the taskbar by clicking on the edge of the taskbar and dragging your mouse to enlarge it. If you are running Windows XP and have the taskbar locked (an awesome feature), you will need to RIGHT click on the taskbar and then uncheck the "lock taskbar" option before resizing.

To further customize your taskbar, RIGHT click on it and click Properties. The taskbar properties lets you set functions such as hiding the taskbar, keeping it on top of other windows, toggle the clock on or off, grouping tasks/windows (Windows XP only) and more. One option available in this menu, for Windows XP users, is the ability to toggle on or off the "Quick Launch" toolbar you may have become familiar with using previous versions of Windows.

Read my other tips regarding the taskbar and the quick launch bar by browsing the Tips Archive.

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