Initial Desktop Configuration

This section describes what you see when you start a session for the first time. Your system administrator might have set your default bottom edge panel according to your local requirements, so you might see a slightly different bottom edge panel.

The Java Desktop System startup screen typically consists of the following:

• This Computer

  Enables you to access media and configuration details about your system.

• Documents

  Enables direct access to files stored in your default directory.

• Network Places

  Provides access to networked computers from a single directory.

• Trash

  Provides a temporary holding area for files, folders or desktop objects that you can later retrieve or permanently delete.

• StarOffice 7

  Launches the StarOffice application.

• Learn About The Java™ Desktop System

  Launches a help browser from where you can access overview information about the Java Desktop System.

• Bottom edge panel

  The following panel objects appear in your bottom edge panel by default:

  • Launch button: Provides menus for applications and configuration tools on the Java Desktop System.

  • Clock: Displays the time and date in a panel.

  • Show Desktop: Displays a button that you can click to minimize all open windows.

  • Window List: Displays a button for each window that is open. You can click on a window list button to minimize and restore windows.

  • Notification Area: Displays icons from various applications to indicate activity in the application. For example, when you use the CD Player application to play a CD, a CD icon is displayed in the Notification Area.

  • Workspace Switcher: Displays a visual representation of your workspaces. You can use Workspace Switcher to switch between workspaces.

  • Volume Control: Displays a button that enables you to control and set the sound level for your system.

  • Network Monitor: Displays a dialog that enables you to monitor the activities of your network.

• Desktop Background

  The desktop background lies behind all of the other components on the Java Desktop System. The desktop background is an active component of the user interface. You can place objects on the desktop background to quickly access your files and directories, or to start applications that you use often. You can also right-click on the desktop background to open a menu.