Tip-Of-The-Week

February 16, 2007

From the Free Computer Consultant

http://www.FreeComputerConsultant.com

PowerToy's for XP (and 2000)

I think it's been quite a while since I've written about PowerToy's, so I want to make sure you all are aware of these ultra cool goodies. These aren't supported by Microsoft officially, but they are created by Microsoft programmers and known to be very reliable.

I know that most of you are using XP, so the link below is specifically for XP Powertoys, but Microsoft does have versions for 2000 Pro also.

Before I forget, here's the link to PowerToy's for XP.

Here's why you want them

• It's well known that you can cycle through open programs using the ALT-TAB key combination. But why not get a cool preview? PowerToy Alt-Tab replacement gives you just that.

• For those of us who are still hooked on using a command prompt regularly, nothing is better than right-clicking on a folder in Windows Explorer and selecting "command prompt here".

• ClearType Tuner has worked out great for certain PC's. Laptops and some LCD screens especially can benefit from the fine "tuning" of the characters on the screen that this utility allows.

Check out the site listed above. Then download, install and try those that look useful to you.

I write about a wide variety of subjects in this weekly e-zine, and I would like to know what you would like to see more of and less of.

In particular, are you interested in Windows Vista, the upgrade path, tips & tricks for using it? If few are, I won't write about it - or maybe only as an addendum.

My goal is to have this weekly Tip-Of-The-Week to be as valuable and enjoyable to you, the reader, as possible. Please use my contact page to let me know.

Thanks in advance.

Hope this information is of use to you, that's it for this week.

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The Free Computer Consultant