Marktastic » Windows

Tip: Use F2 to Rename Files and Folders

Mark — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 14:00:13 +0000

Sometimes some of the easiest tricks on a computer are the least often used. I would wager that over 3/4 of the population has never intentionally used a single function key on their keyboard. Sure, they might have mashed one or two in a fit of rage as their system locks up for the 17th time that day, but that doesn’t count.

I keep a very organized file structure. As such, I often find the need to change the name of a file or folder to make it more useful and descriptive. This is why one of my favorite keys is the F2 key. It allows me to rename files without having to:

Click an icon twice, but timed correctly so it allows me to rename and does not open
Right click an icon and choosing rename

Give it a try!

What happened to the Address Bar in Windows XP Service Pack 3?

Mark — Wed, 24 Sep 2008 01:10:07 +0000

Like the Show Desktop button, I’m also a huge fan of the Address Bar toolbar in Windows XP. Or at least I was until Service Pack 3.

The Address Toolbar (RIP)

Recently, Microsoft under the guise of a Service Pack removed functionality. I believe the explanation they used was something like, “Due to regulatory requests . . .” and that this stems from the removal of Internet Explorer from the OS itself. I, personally, this is one of the dumbest things ever, but that’s me.

This toolbar was hugely helpful to launch websites, open files and do a variety of other tasks. My search soon began for a freeware replacement.

What I found was just as good. The MuvEnum Address Bar.

Their website describes it as:

MuvEnum Address Bar is the ultimate replacement for the missing address bar in Windows XP SP3. It recreates the experience of the original address bar with auto-completion while adding many new features that allow you to quickly open webpages, navigate to favorites, start programs, search the internet, and more from you Windows Taskbar!

Features

Supports the following original address bar features: Environment Variables, System Locations, Favorites, Quick Search Aliases, History, and Inline Auto-Completion.

Set focus to the address bar using a global system-wide hotkey. Defaults to Ctrl+Shift+A.

Hit Escape to clear the current text.

Option to automatically check for updates.

MuvEnum Address Bar Options Screen

I highly recommend the MuvEnum Address Bar.

UPDATE: If you’d prefer to get the authentic Address Bar back, check out this link.

The Show Desktop Button

Mark — Sat, 20 Sep 2008 02:27:28 +0000

Back in the late 90′s, Microsoft rolled out a feature as a part of Windows 98 that I have come to love far and away above all others. It was a simple feature that 85% or more of folks don’t even know exists. If they have seen it, chances are they’ve never used it and don’t know what it does.

I am speaking of the “Show Desktop” button.

What does this button look like?

Below are the icons for the Show Desktop button for Windows XP and Windows Vista, respectively.

Where can I find this button?

You will find this icon by default on the Quick Launch toolbar.

So what does the Show Desktop button do?

This is pretty self-explanatory. When you click the Show Desktop button, all your windows are minimized so that you can see your desktop. A second click will restore all your windows.

With the help of this button, you can quickly get back to your desktop without having to minimize each window individually.

I believe you will use the Show Desktop quite often and like a scrolling mouse, wonder ever how you worked without it.

But I still have questions:

Question: I don’t see the Show Desktop button.
Answer: You may not have the Quick Launch toolbar showing.

Question: How do I enable my Quick Launch toolbar?
Answer: Right click your taskbar (the bar with the start menu on it) -> Choose Toolbars -> Select Quick Launch.

Question: At some point, I deleted this icon. How do I get it back?
Answer: Please visit Microsoft’s website for instructions.