The Great Desktop Effects FAQ of 2010 [help needed]

[jpeddicord]

August 2011: This thread badly needs to be updated/pruned. If you (yes, you!) would like to take over maintenance of this thread, please send me a PM (http://ubuntuforums.org/private.php?do=newpm&u=90021). Members with active, helpful posting history preferred. Otherwise this thread will be unstickied at the end of the month.

This is not a topic for asking questions. (Unless you can of course provide an answer along with it.)

The FAQ

Compiz
What is Compiz Fusion?

Compiz is what is known as a "compositing manager." It enables your desktop to run faster than with traditional window managers, and allows you to be more productive. Compiz controls the effects you see on your desktop: Shadows, animations, "the cube," and a whole bundle of other fun effects.

How do I know if Compiz is enabled (How can I disable Compiz?)

On Ubuntu 7.10 and up:
Open System > Preferences > Appearance. Click on the Visual Effects tab. If Compiz and desktop effects are enabled, Normal, Extra, or Custom will be selected. If Compiz is disabled, None will be selected. To switch modes, simply click on another selection. Changes take effect immediately.

Why is my card "Blacklisted?")

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=765875

What is a quicker way to enable/disable Compiz? - Gourgi

Install the package fusion-icon (apt:fusion-icon) and reload your session for a notification icon to switch between Compiz and the standard window manager.

How can I install Beryl? - FuturePilot

Beryl was merged back into the Compiz project to create what is now know as Compiz Fusion. Beryl is no longer supported or developed meaning that if there is a bug, no one will fix it. Therefore it is recommended that you use Compiz Fusion which comes installed by default in Ubuntu.

How can I get Custom to appear in the Visual Effects dialog?

Custom only appears if the package simple-ccsm (apt:simple-ccsm?section=universe) is installed. When you install simple-ccsm, a new selection will be available in Visual Effects, which allows you to customize what effects are active on your desktop. You can also customize the effects from System > Preferences > Simple CompizConfig Settings Manager.

Simple CompizConfig Settings Manager doesn't provide enough options or effects. Are there more?

Simple CompizConfig is just that, simple. If you are looking for more options, install the package compizconfig-settings-manager (apt:compizconfig-settings-manager?section=universe). Be sure to keep simple-ccsm installed so that the Custom option remains available in Visual Effects.

You can also access it from System > Preferences > Advanced Desktop Effects Settings or by opening a terminal (or Alt+F2) and typing ccsm.

I can't find some of the plugins mentioned in this FAQ. Where are they?

As of recent Ubuntu releases, these are now available in compiz-fusion-plugins-extra (apt:compiz-fusion-plugins-extra), which is not installed by default.

Desktop Effects could not be enabled?

See the following thread to find out why:Compiz-Check (http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=799070)


Is compiz for Ubuntu and Kubuntu only? - aimpau

Nope! Xubuntu has it too!
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=934934

Just to add, if you want to use emerald for window decorations, don't forget to type in alt+f2:

emerald --replace

The gtk-window-decorator cannot be controlled by Applications > Settings > Settings Manager > Window Manager since it only control xfwm4. However, you can load .cgwdtheme files through the terminal. I recommended emerald since it is really cool.

Where did my window borders go? - cc7gir

This is a common mistake caused by disabling some plugins in CompizConfig Settings Manager. To fix, open the manager (System > Preferences > CompizConfig Settings Manager) and find the "Window Decorations" plugin. Check the box and you're all set.

How can I get the "cube" effect? - overdrank

(Image) (http://ubuntuforums.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=71841&d=1211934590) First, install compizconfig-settings-manager. Then, in System > Preferences > Advanced Desktop Effects Settings, go to General Options, Desktop Size tab, and make sure Horizontal Virtual Size is set to 4. Go back to the main window, and enable the Desktop Cube and Rotate Cube plugins.
You can "spin" the cube by pressing Ctrl+Alt+Left and Ctrl+Alt+Right, or hold Ctrl+Alt and click and drag.

What is the "dodge" effect?

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=899195

How do I beam up my windows to space? - aimpau

Capt. Picard: Prepare to beam up.
Data: Beaming up in 6 nanoseconds.

Press alt+f2 and type in

ccsm
(Alternatively, go to System > Preferences > Advanced Desktop Effects Settings in GNOME)

Go to Animations and on the close animation tab, click on the top animation (by default, that would be Glide 2) and press edit. Look for Beam, click ok and close. That's it! Enjoy

What are some other keyboard shortcuts? - wolfen69

http://ubuntuforums.org/showpost.php?p=5180134&postcount=5

How do I install a Compiz plugin from git? - AstalaVista

7.10 Gutsy (http://forum.compiz-fusion.org/showthread.php?t=5303)
8.04 Hardy (http://forum.compiz-fusion.org/showthread.php?t=8214)

What is Emerald? - _DD_

Emerald is a replacement window decorator which supports many more effects than gtk-window-decorator, GNOME's built-in window decorator.

How do I install and enable Emerald?

Install the emerald (apt:emerald?section=universe) package from Synaptic.
The package emerald-themes (apt:emerald-themes?section=universe) provides some themes to use in 8.04, but it is currently missing from the repositories. Themes must be installed manually for the time being.

To enable Emerald on login, go to System > Preferences > Sessions. Click the Add button, and type in Emerald for Name and emerald --replace for Command. Click OK and close the Sessions window. The next time you sign in, Emerald will be running.

Themes
Where can I download additional themes for my desktop?

Themes for Ubuntu (GNOME) can be found at:

GNOME Art (http://art.gnome.org)
GNOME-Look (http://gnome-look.org)
deviantART (http://browse.deviantart.com/customization/skins/linuxutil/gnome/?order=9&alltime=yes)

Themes for Kubuntu can be found at:

KDE-Look (http://kde-look.org)
deviantART (http://browse.deviantart.com/customization/skins/linuxutil/kde/?order=9&alltime=yes)



How can I install a custom cursor theme? - Armed Nuke

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=820245

Other
What is the Mac-like dock I see in some screenshots?

The dock is known as Avant Window Navigator. Instructions on how to install and configure it are available here:
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=762363

Another dock available is Cairo-dock: http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=878603

How do I get desktop widgets? - smartboyathome

There are several programs which allow you to put widgets on the desktop. The most popular is a program called Screenlets. To install it, open up System > Preferences > Synaptic Package Manager, and search for "screenlets". Install the "screenlets (apt:screenlets?section=universe)" package that comes up by double clicking on it and clicking apply on the top bar. Once it is installed, go to Applications > Accessories > Screenlets (or System > Preferences > Screenlets) and enable the screenlets that you want.

I really love these Screenlets, are there more? - Gourgi

Of course! You can download screenlets either from the 3rd party Screenlets Repository (http://screenlets.org/index.php/Category:UserScreenlets) or from the Gnome-look Screenlets section (http://gnome-look.org/?xcontentmode=6700).

My Screenlets package is outdated, how can I get an up to date package? - Gourgi

Add these to your sources in System > Administration > Software Sources; Third Party Software; Add.
Gutsy:
deb http://ppa.launchpad.net/gilir/ubuntu gutsy main universe
Hardy
deb http://ppa.launchpad.net/gilir/ubuntu hardy main universe
See http://screenlets.org/index.php/Download for additional sources.

How can I set up different wallpapers for each virtual desktop, with Conky, and get rid of GNOME panels?

http://ubuntuforums.org/showpost.php?p=5691394&postcount=39


Useful Links

http://forlong.blogage.de/article/2008/4/26/How-to-set-up-Compiz-Fusion-074
http://linuxowns.wordpress.com/2008/06/16/guide-to-customizing-ubuntus-look-and-feel/


Contributing
Attention forum members:

Want to have a chance to contribute to "The Great FAQ of Desktop Effects?" Then join me in the planning of one of the biggest events to hit this forum (well, stickies anyway). We're going to build a nice big topic to put right at the top of the forum page to hang out with the "Blacklisted?" topic. Anyone and everyone is welcome to contribute.

Interested? Great! Here's what you need to do:
Find a question about Compiz, Desktop Effects, Theming, or anything related that is fairly frequently asked, even if it may seem obvious. It can even be one of the questions above that is marked "to be written." Post your question as a reply to this thread in a format similar to:


Why doesn't Compiz start?
Compiz usually won't start for the following reasons...
blah blah blah blah
or

Why doesn't Compiz start?
http://ubuntuforums.org/showtopic.php?t=12345

Be sure to either include a link to the topic with the answer or provide the answer directly. The questions and answers will be edited into the main post (this one). I'll probably edit your questions and answers to fit them in with the rest of the questions, but the idea will remain the same.

[overdrank]

How can I get the cube

You can use this command in the terminal to install the CCSM

sudo apt-get install compizconfig-settings-manager
Or use synaptic package manager located under system, administration.
Then you can use CCSM, it will be located under system,preference. Choose the general options , desktop size set the horizontal virtual size to 4. Also ensure that the desktop cube and rotate cube are also checked.

[smartboyathome]

How do I get desktop widgets?
There are several programs which allow you to put widgets on the desktop. The most popular is a program called Screenlets. To install it, open up System > Preferences > Synaptic Package Manager, and search for "screenlets". Install the "screenlets" package that comes up my double clicking on it and clicking apply on the top bar. Once it is installed, go to Applications > Accessories > Screenlets and enable the screenlets that you want.

(P.S. Do you want the people to use the packages in the repo? The screenlets package there is quite old, and I would recommend the package from getdeb.net, which I use now.)

[jpeddicord]

How do I get desktop widgets?
There are several programs which allow you to put widgets on the desktop. The most popular is a program called Screenlets. To install it, open up System > Preferences > Synaptic Package Manager, and search for "screenlets". Install the "screenlets" package that comes up my double clicking on it and clicking apply on the top bar. Once it is installed, go to Applications > Accessories > Screenlets and enable the screenlets that you want.Added. Thanks!


(P.S. Do you want the people to use the packages in the repo? The screenlets package there is quite old, and I would recommend the package from getdeb.net, which I use now.)Yeah, we should probably stick to the repositories. The repo-available packages are much easier to install than telling a user to download a .deb that needs updated upon new releases. Packages in the repository can also be supported better in case of a problem.

[FuturePilot]

How can I install Beryl?
Beryl was merged back into the Compiz project to create what is now know as Compiz Fusion. Beryl is no longer supported or developed meaning that if there is a bug, no one will fix it. Therefore it is recommended that you use Compiz Fusion which comes installed by default in Ubuntu.


(P.S. I think Beryl should be removed from the description of this forum for the above reason ;))

[chewearn]

How do I install <insert name> compiz plugin (from git)?

Gutsy (http://forum.compiz-fusion.org/showthread.php?t=5303)
Hardy (http://forum.compiz-fusion.org/showthread.php?t=8214)

[_DD_]

Need something do do with Emerald...

What is Emerald?
Emerald is a replacement window decorator which supports many more effects than Metacity, Gnome's built-in window manager.

How do I install and enable Emerald?
In the terminal type...

sudo apt-get install emerald
...blah blah

Also something about...

emerald --replace

[Vadi]

What's an easy to follow guide to setting up Compiz Fusion in 8.04?

http://forlong.blogage.de/article/2008/4/26/-How-to-set-up-Compiz-Fusion-074-included-in-Ubuntu-804-Hardy-Heron#

[jpeddicord]

What's an easy to follow guide to setting up Compiz Fusion in 8.04?

http://forlong.blogage.de/article/2008/4/26/-How-to-set-up-Compiz-Fusion-074-included-in-Ubuntu-804-Hardy-Heron#

Not necessairily a FAQ, but a good guide nonetheless. I've added it to a new Links section.

[knudsenjoe]

Thought I'd post this bit of a reminder for some of us, I mean all the noobs....

If you have Ubuntu Tweak controlling some aspects of your desktop it may or may not interfere with those cool Compiz extras. Obviously you would shut off the UT stuff, get your Compiz right, then if you must maybe then you could go back and tweak with UT.

I went ahead and posted this over there at the Compiz Forums as well.

yeah, i'm guilty lol

[Gourgi]

Screenlets code is under heavy development almost every day and maybe the the version available in repositories is buggy.
there is PPA screenlets repository for Gutsy and Hardy often updated.

How can i get an up to date package for screenlets ?
Add to your sources.list
In gutsy :
deb http://ppa.launchpad.net/gilir/ubuntu gutsy main universe
In Hardy :
deb http://ppa.launchpad.net/gilir/ubuntu hardy main universe

I really loved those screenlets, are there more ?
Of course !
You can download screenlets either from the 3rd party Screenlets Repository here
http://screenlets.org/index.php/Category:UserScreenlets
or from Gnome-look Screenlets section here
http://gnome-look.org/?xcontentmode=6700


- - - - -
an easier method to switch through compiz <-> metacity and enabling emerald is using fusion-icon (included in hardy's repos)

sudo apt-get install fusion-icon

[Armed Nuke]

editing cursor themes:

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=820245

[Sealbhach]

When I spin the cube around, it's just gray in the background. How do I change that?

Also, the top and the bottom of the cube are a plain yellow colour, anything I can do about those?


.

[overdrank]

When I spin the cube around, it's just gray in the background. How do I change that?

Also, the top and the bottom of the cube are a plain yellow colour, anything I can do about those?


.

HI and the first is the skydome, located in the advance desktop effects settings under system, preference. Look for desktop cube, appearance tab.There you can add images for the skydome.
The second, is the cube caps, appearance tab and there you can add images.

[overdrank]

HI and on behalf of wolfen69, found here.
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=828222

here is a list of some of the things you can do

Desktop Effects1 Keyboard Shortcuts
Rotate Cube Mousewheel on Desktop
Switcher2 Alt + Tab
Shift Switcher3 Super + Tab (2 modes: flip and cover)
Ring Switcher Super + Tab - overrides Shift Switcher
Expo Super + E (toggle)
Film Effect Ctrl + Alt + Down Arrow4
Rotate Cube Manually Ctrl + Alt + Left Mouse Button
Scale Windows Alt + Shift + Up Arrow
Show/Clear Desktop Ctrl + Alt + D (toggle)
Snapping Windows Move a window across workspaces5
Screenshot Super + Left Mouse Button
Zoom In/Out Super + Mousewheel
Transparent Window Alt + Mousewheel
Resize Window Alt + F8
Move Window Alt + F7
Add Helper Super + P
Widget Layer F9 (toggle)
Water Effects Shift + F9 (toggle)
Fire Effects: On Super + Shift + Left Mouse Button
Fire Effects: Clear Super + Shift + C
Annotate: Draw Super + Left Mouse Button
Annotate: Start Super + 1
Annotate: End Super + 3
Group: Select Window(s) Super + S
Group: Group Windows Super + T
Group: Ungroup Windows Super + U
Group: Flip Windows Super + Right or Left Arrow

[Fenris_rising]

for anyone who installs the latest compiz. i recently had a problem with the
open close minimise effects being non existant (yes the animations were selected in ccsm). now i have just stumbled on this thread and on the off chance i have installed 'simple ccsm'. selected 'custom' and went into preferences. once there i selected my favorite animation (explode) well the good news is that they work now. i dont know if its a bug in the compiz git or something with my PC but this may help anyone who has the same problem.
so under system preferences i have both, CCSM and Simple CCSM.

[LeoSolaris]

Just a note, you do not have to have simple CCSM installed to enable custom effects. You can simply install the advanced CCSM and it will allow you to turn on the custom feature.

Not a big point, but I am in favor of keeping the number of programs on my machine down to save space on my hard drive.

Leo

[Rocket2DMn]

Compiz for older ATI cards requiring the open source "ati"/"radeon" drivers (which has been blacklisted) - http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=764633

[jpeddicord]

Sorry for the update delay. I've been on vacation without internet access for a week. :)


Yeah, we should probably stick to the repositories. The repo-available packages are much easier to install than telling a user to download a .deb that needs updated upon new releases. Packages in the repository can also be supported better in case of a problem.

Contradicting myself:

A 3rd party repository may be added to the FAQ as long as it is the official third party repository for that piece of software and is actively maintained.

[overlord.gaurav]

Q: How to uninstall Compiz?
A: Open a terminal and type:

sudo apt-get purge compiz-core && sudo apt-get autoremove
and press enter.

Alternatively, you can uninstall it using the Synaptic Package Manager in System -> Administration through the GUI mode.

Q: How to theme my desktop like Windows XP/Windows Vista/OSX?
A: It is very much possible to theme Ubuntu desktop like Windows XP/Windows Vista/ OSX. Follow the guide mentioned below for each of the customization:

Windows XP: http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=82114

Windows Vista: http://tuxenclave.wordpress.com/2007/11/23/ubuntu-customization-guide-v2/ [Scroll down on the page to find the guide for Vista customization]

Mac OSX: http://tuxenclave.wordpress.com/2007/11/23/ubuntu-customization-guide-v2/ [Scroll down on the page to find the guide for OSX customization]

Q: How to install Aavnt-Window-Navigator? [The dock similar to the one in OSX]
A: Follow the guide on this page (http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=762363).[http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=762363]

[dot2kode]

Awesome guide! Thanks for putting this together! =D>

[amisdar]

Really useful tips. I always hang around at http://www.gnome-look.org/ and now I understand whats the meaning of Metacity, Compiz and Beryl!

Thanks for this awesome info :-)

[sayakb]

You may also have a sphere instead of a cube.
http://ubuntuforums.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=76669&thumb=1&d=1215380104 (http://ubuntuforums.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=76669&d=1215380104)
Goto System->Administration->Software Sources
Click Third party software tab and add this: deb http://ppa.launchpad.net/compiz/ubuntu hardy main
Then close the window and press Reload when prompted to. You shall be notified by update manager that there is an update for compiz. Install the update and reboot your computer.
Then goto Advanced desktop effects settings and you will have a Cube reflection and deformation and 3D Windows plugin there.

[billgoldberg]

I recently wrote a guide to customizing Ubuntu.

Some might find it useful.

http://linuxowns.wordpress.com/2008/06/16/guide-to-customizing-ubuntus-look-and-feel/

The following subjects are covered:

1. Setting a different wallpaper
2. Installing a new theme
3. Changing the panel size, transparency
4. Installing a new icon set
5. Setting up Compiz Fusion (and it’s effects, like the rotating cube)
6. Setting up transparent windows borders
7. Setting up true panel and menu transparency
8. Installing/changing system fonts
9. Installing/using new system sounds
10. Installing “widgets” and adding new ones
11. Making root applications use your theme/icons
12. Installing a dock
13. Installing a different login screen
14. Use a splash screen/install a new splash screen
15. Install a different grub theme
16. Install a new mouse theme

[ba5e]

ver nice post!

[Exsecrabilus]

What is Emerald? - _DD_

Emerald is a replacement window decorator which supports many more effects than Metacity, Gnome's built-in window manager.

This section is wrong. Like you said, Emerald is a window decorator, not a window manager. Therefore, you should compare it to gtk-window-decorator, a window decorator, not Metacity, a window manager.

[jpeddicord]

This section is wrong. Like you said, Emerald is a window decorator, not a window manager. Therefore, you should compare it to gtk-window-decorator, a window decorator, not Metacity, a window manager.

Didn't catch that when posted. Thanks.

[Ingenue]

Wow, very helpful thread. Thanks.

[overdrank]

How do I install cairo-dock
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=878603

[Mgiacchetti]

howto install cairo dock

https://help.ubuntu.com/community/CairoDock

Plus here's a little nugget of gold for all you who like eye candy...

attached you will find a zip file with 4 gradients.
unzip these to ~/Pictures/gradients (you will need to create the folder 'gradients')

to use, right click cairo dock and go to cairo-dock > configure

in the first view find "activate autohide" check this box

in the background tab, under callback zone:

set your size, (i used 500 X 15 )
in the filename, use whichever gradient corresponds to the placement of your dock

I set my transparency to 0.748 you can fiddle around to find what you like.
make sure the rotate image option is unchecked

click apply
click ok

[markip]

I gathered all the compiz-fusion shortcuts and i decided to put it here.It would be very usuful if it could become a sticky too. Here it is:

Points of Reference
the "Super" key is the key with the Microsoft Windows logo on keyboards that are so equipped. It usually is placed between Ctrl and Alt on the left side of the Space bar.
When configuring Compiz or Compiz-Fusion plugins the mouse buttons are referred to as ButtonX according to the following table:

Button1 .....Left Mouse Button
Button2.......enter Mouse Button (click-able scroll wheel in some cases)
Button3......Right Mouse Button
Button4........Scroll Wheel Up
Button5.......Scroll Wheel Down
If you have customized your mouse in '/etc/X11/xorg.conf' then these buttons will operate according to that map.
Direction keys are a reference to their corresponding arrow keys:

Up......The Up arrow key
Down......The Down arrow key
Left......The Left arrow key
Right......The Right arrow key


Most common keybindings



Rotate to Cube Face Left
<Ctrl><Alt>Left


Rotate to Cube Face Right
<Ctrl><Alt>Right



Rotate Cube with Mouse
<Ctrl><Alt>Button1


Unfold Cube
<Ctrl><Alt>Down

Next Window
<Ctrl><Alt>Tab


Previous Window
<Shift><Ctrl><Alt>Tab


Next Window (All Desktops)
<Alt>Tab


Previous Window (All Desktops)
<Shift><Alt>Tab


Show All Desktops (Expo)
<Super>E


Show All Windows (Scale)
<Alt><Shift>Up


Show Desktop
<Ctrl><Alt>D

Show Main Menu
<Alt>F1



Screenshot Desktop
PrtScn


Screenshot Window
<Alt>PrtScn


Screenshot Area
<Super>Button1


Move Window (Keyboard)
<Alt>F7


Move Window (Mouse)
<Alt>Button1


Decrease Opacity
<Alt>Button5



Increase Opacity
<Alt>Button4


All keybindings


Slow Animations
<Shift>F10



Raise Window
<Control>Button6


Lower Window
<Alt>Button6



Window Menu
<Alt>Button3



Show Desktop
<Control><Alt>D


Screenshot (Desktop)
Print



Screenshot (Window)
<Alt>Print



Close Window
<Alt>F4


Show Main Menu
<Alt>F1



Run Dialog
<Alt>F2



Unmaximize Window
<Alt>F5



Minimize Window
<Alt>F9


Maximize Window
<Alt>F10




Window Menu
<Alt>Space
General Options
Key Bindings


Toggle Window Shaded
<Control><Alt>S



Increase Opacity
<Alt>Button4


Decrease Opacity
<Alt>Button5

Effects

SUPER+SHIFT+DRAG LEFT MOUSE = draw fire
SUPER+SHIFT+C = clear fire
CTRL+ALT+DRAG LEFT MOUSE = rotate cube
CTRL+ALT+LEFT ARROW = rotate cube
CTRL+ALT+DOWN ARROW = flat desktop
SHIFT+ALT+UP=initiate window picker
CTRL+ALT+DOWN=unfold cube
ALT+TAB=window switch
SUPER+TAB=flip switcher or ring switcher depending on which is enabled.
ALT+F7=initiate 'move windows'
SHIFT+F9=water effect
SHIFT+F10=slow animations
CTRL+ALT+D=show desktop

For Grouping and Tabbing:
SUPER+S=Select Single Window
SUPER+T=Tab Group
SUPER+Left=Change Left Tab
SUPER+Right=Change Right Tab
SUPER+G=Group Windows
SUPER+U=Ungroup Windows
SUPER+R=Remove Group Window
SUPER+C=Close Group
SUPER+X=Ignore Group
hold the super button then select the windows you want to group and then hit super+g

CTRL+Middle Mouse Button - Resize Window
CTRL+Left Mouse Button - Move Window

SUPER+E - Initiate Expo Mode (if enabled)

CTRL+SHIFT+ALT+Left cursor or CTRL+SHIFT+ALT+Right cursor - Move window to next desktop (i think, if not it might just be CTRL+SHIFT+left or right)



resourses: http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=494548
http://wiki.compiz-fusion.org/CommonKeyboardShortcuts

[Crafty Kisses]

Nice writeup but I'm pretty sure Compiz already had something exactly/similar to this, but nonetheless nice one.

[overdrank]

If you do not mind I am going to move to the FAQ's located here
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=809695
:)
Moved to the FAQ's

[boballen55]

great post

[austintmetal]

This was helpful, got to set up the desktop cube with the help of this.

[Warren North]

I thought I mention that I like using all three desktops Gnome Kde and Xfce. I use compiz on gnome and kde. I like to keep xfce light and use it's faster features. It took along time to get here but I got bloated fun computer. More stuff works!

[overdrank]

How to enable the Dodge effect in CCSM
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=899195
Thanks to sameerds

[loomsen]

Thanks for contributing everyone.

Guess it's time to give some back...

Here we go:

How to set up different wallpapers for each virtual Desktop, still using conky, and gettin rid of gnome panels?

First we gotta get rid of nautilus.

NOTE: You will lose your Desktop icons!

Which is actually a good news for me, I like it clean :) But you should consider for yourself whether you wanna live without it. If not, you basically should stop reading now, and activate the next tab in your favorite webbrowser.

Alright, lets go.

First step is to enable and configure the wallpaper plugin in CCSM.
Open it up by hitting

Alt + F2 (optional Super + Space if you have gnome do installed)
and type ccsm
navigate to utility, wallpaper. There, set up the wallpapers according to your needs.

Note: the order you specify here will be the order on your desktops.
So the first wallpaper will be drawn to your first desktop, the second one to desktop nr2 and so on.

Set up one for each desk, I got 4. U may also set up more than the number of your desks, but it wont have any effect.

Alright, now enable the plugin. If you are using Ubuntu, which obv most of us are, you wont notice any change yet. Still the same on every Desktop.

This is because nautilus, the default file manager shipped with gnome, draws our Desktop, as well as the icons lying on it and the right klick context. But don't worry, we'll be rid of it soon.

Note:You may as well find it useful taking a shot at some other file manager applications.
I like
PCManFM
the most. It completely replaced my nautilus, which, I'm sure saved me at least as much time as this post will take me to finish :) Ridiculously fast compared to nautilus. force --back-to-topic

Alright, so we enabled our prefered wallpapers, and they are actually there, but nautilus covers them.
I could describe it by using the gconf editor and the command line a lot, but I prefer
gTweakUI - Nautilus
which does basically the same we would do by typing lines and lines of code.
It is available through the universe repos, open up a terminal and copy&paste this:
[/code]
sudo apt-get update
sudo apt-get install gtweakui [/code]
Note: You may want to use a prefix to install it into a given directory, up to you.

I prefer preventing nautilus from starting up at all, you may specify this however you like it through System --> Preferences --> Sessions. Tho gtweakui will be fine, if u wanna still use nautilus for file management purpose. However, if you decide to go with some other app, you should remove it from your startup now. Open up a terminal and do this:


cd ~/.config/autostart/
ls

As it is the first thing I did after I installed Hardy, I dont know what it is called, should be sth according to nautilus.desktop.
Taken it is actually called nautilus.desktop, which I cant guarantee, u may edit it by typing:


gedit nautilus.desktop
search line


X-GNOME-Autostart-enabled=true
and change it to

X-GNOME-Autostart-enabled=false
Save, and exit.

Now fire up gtweakui by typing:

gtweakui-nautilus
into your favorite terminal application.

Uncheck:
[ ] Use nautilus to draw desktop, close gtweakui, and hit
Ctrl + Alt + Backspace

to restart your X-Session.
This will not remove your nautilus! If you wanna get rid of it you gotta take further actions

But it's enough for now, after logging back in, we should have that mission accomplished, and each of our desks should have his own wp now.

Next step is to get rid of your gnome panel if you want to. Many here using AWN as I saw, so have I been for a while. I switched to KiBa tho in the meanwhile. It is very customizable, and once set up, which can easily be done by modifying a .xml file, as stable as AWN.
BUT: you may use more than one instance of it, unlike AWN. This was the main issue for me to take a shot at KiBa, and I dont regret anything :)

Alright, but configuring your desktops to fit your need should be up to every single one of you. If someone is interested in a HowTo I might set it up tomorrow or so, but now I'd like to continue with conky.

If you use it, you already might have noticed its fake transparency. And as this is due to the source code, theres nothing we could easily tweak about it, except of porting it to another language or recoding it or sth.

But as all of us are using Compiz anyway I guess, lets actually make use of it. Setting the
own_window_transparency to "yes" wont work in this case, just because conky isn't, and actually never was transparent. It took a shot of the frame it was told to draw to, and used it as its background.

So we gotta go for a workaround, which should melt conky into our desktops, even if its not fully transparent. As I said, I like my Desktops clean, so I wrote a conky, which displays all my desired Information in just one line on top of my screen. Take a look at the screenshots...

This way you should be able to set your conkys up as you like, if u prefer a lot of bars and colors and stuff. (Please ask google for further information of conky, if you need some, there are a lot of HowTos available all over the net)

However, your conky options should look like this:


own_window yes
own_window_hints undecorated #,sticky,below,skip_taskbar,skip_pager
own_window_type normal
own_window_transparent no
background black


As you may notice I commented out the window_hints in my conky, and also specified to draw a background. I've chosen a black one, u may specify it to fit to your desks however you like.

Anyway, once you set up your conky, open up CCSM once again, and go to
Window Management --> Window rules.

Mine looks like this:
[img=http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/503/conkygrabpw0.th.png] (http://img523.imageshack.us/my.php?image=conkygrabpw0.png)
You may type it in or use the green plus to open the little helper u might notice.

However, again, set it up to fit your needs.

Last thing to do to make conky suitable is setting some transparency.

NOTE: Linux is case sensitive!
So if you type "conky" instead of "Conky" exactly nothing will change.

Alright then, once done, hit back, and navigate
to general options, still in CCSM.

The last tab is called Opacity Settings, activate it, click on window opacities to drop it down if it isn't open yet, and hit new.

Once again enter class=Conky and consider how opaque you would like your conky to be. Sth in between 33%-66% should be finde, just toy around, it is actually applied instantly.

Alright, I guess thats about it, some shots how this could look like once you are finished attached.

I hope you have been able to follow, I'm german, and as the shots reveal, it's pretty l8 over here by now :) However, enjoy :)

Oh, btw, my Conky:


use_xft yes
xftfont Sans:size=8
alignment top_right
xftalpha 0.8
update_interval 3.0
own_window yes
own_window_hints undecorated #,sticky,below,skip_taskbar,skip_pager
own_window_type normal
own_window_transparent no
background black
double_buffer yes
draw_shades no
draw_outline no
draw_borders no
stippled_borders 0
border_margin 0
border_width 1
default_shade_color black
default_outline_color white
default_color white
override_utf8_locale yes
# Minimum size of text area
minimum_size 1440 2
maximum_width 1440

# Gap between borders of screen and text
# same thing as passing -x at command line
gap_x 0
gap_y 1


use_spacer none
uppercase no
# number of cpu samples to average
# set to 1 to disable averaging
cpu_avg_samples 1

TEXT
Core1${goto 40} ${cpu cpu1}%${goto 78}${hwmon 0 temp 1}°C |Core2${goto 171} ${cpu cpu2}%${goto 209}${hwmon 1 temp 1}°C |GPU ${execi 30 nvclock -T | perl -ne 'print $1 if /temperature.*?: (\d+)./;'}°C |HDD: ${execi 30 hddtemp /dev/sda | perl -ne 'print $1 if /250JI.*?: (\d+)./;'}°C ${color red}|${color} Proc: $running_processes | $memperc% RAM used ${color red}|${color} /root: ${fs_free_perc /}% | /home: ${fs_free_perc /home}% | /sto: ${if_mounted /media/DRIVE-N-GO}${fs_free_perc /media/DRIVE-N-GO}%${else}${color dark grey}absent${color}${endif} ${color red}|${color} ${color dark grey}${texeci 300 perl ~/configs/conk/conky_scripts/check_gmail.sh n}${color} new @ gmail $alignr${nodename} ${color red}|${color} ${kernel}-${sysname}-${machine} ${color red}|${color} ${time %A %d %B}${font OpenLogos}${color red}u${font}${color}

And another one covering two lines, same options as above


TEXT
Core1${goto 55} ${cpu cpu2}%${goto 84} ${hwmon 0 temp 1}°C${goto 126}${color red}||${color} GPU ${execi 30 nvclock -T | perl -ne 'print $1 if /temperature.*?: (\d+)./;'}°C ${color red}|${color} mem $memperc% | @: ${texeci 300 perl ~/configs/conk/conky_scripts/check_gmail.sh n} new${alignr 520}${color green}${downspeed eth0} Kb/s${color}${alignr 480}${color red}${upspeed eth0}Kb/s${color} $alignr${nodename} ${color red}|${color} ${kernel}-${sysname}-${machine} ${color red}|${color} ${time %A %d %B}${font OpenLogos}${color red}u${font}${color}
Core2${goto 55} ${cpu cpu1}%${goto 84} ${hwmon 1 temp 1}°C${goto 126}${color red}||${color} hdd: ${execi 30 hddtemp /dev/sda | perl -ne 'print $1 if /250JI.*?: (\d+)./;'}°C ${color red}|${color} /root: ${fs_free_perc /}% | /home: ${fs_free_perc /home}% | /sto: ${if_mounted /media/DRIVE-N-GO}${fs_free_perc /media/DRIVE-N-GO}%${else}absent ${endif} ${alignr 515}${color green}${totaldown eth0}${color}${alignr 490}${color red} ${totalup eth0}${color} $alignr${execi 600 cat ~/.metar-status}

Aight, enjoy.

L8rs.

[eotakos]

Open System > Preferences > Appearance. Click on the Visual Effects tab. If Compiz and desktop effects are enabled, Normal, Extra, or Custom will be selected. If Compiz is disabled, None will be selected. To switch modes, simply click on another selection. Changes take effect immediately.

actually, when i go in this submenu, none of the options is selected, but i'm pretty sure i'm running compiz, because i've all the cubes spinning and other goodies which i control from CompizConfig Settings Manager. So i guess this isn't a general rule.

[aimpau]

Is compiz for Ubuntu and Kubuntu only?

Nope! Xubuntu has it too!

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=934934

Just to add, don't forget to type in alt+f2



emerald --replace


the gtk-window-decorator cannot be controlled by the settings>>settings manager>>>window manager since it only control xfwm4. However, you can load .cgwdtheme files through the terminal. I recommended emerald since it is really cool.

How do I beam up my windows to space?

Capt. Picard: Prepare to beam up.
Data: Beaming up in 6 nanoseconds.

Press alt+f2 and type in


ccsm


Go to Animations and on the close animation tab, click on the top animation (by default, that would be Glide 2) and press edit. Look for Beam, click ok and close. That's it! Enjoy!

[indiapavan]

Very informative post. I learnt many new things about ubuntu. Now I am hooked onto it. :)

[cgkades]

there is a way to auto start emerald, and i'm surprised no one has posted about it yet. in the ccsm, you can click on "window decorations" and change the line from "/usr/bin/compiz-decorator" to "/usr/bin/emerald --replace"

[loomsen]

This conflicts with fusion-icon tho. If you got it running at startup emerald will replace itself.

Your system monitor will prove as it will show multiple instances of "emerald --replace"

Look at the screenshot:
http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/8635/screenshot34bg1.th.png (http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/8635/screenshot34bg1.png)

So, better to leave it blank.

[nicholasmathew]

Hi everybody

I am Nicholas Mathew, new to this forum. I just want to say.. great post. Really very helpful.


Mathew

[DaOg75]

Thank-you so much for this post. I am now the envy of North Fort Worth. Roger

[Thievrey Corporation]

Hi,

just want to say thanks to all of you. Great post. Desktop effects are just incredible.

So Good.

TC

[EnderEcho]

Thanks this is really helpful.

I'm waiting on my first Ubuntu system in the mail. A lot of the faqs are difficult to understand without a system in front of me, but this one was really helpful.

[navidson]

thank you so much. helped me a lot. thanks again.

[vandorjw]

Compiz made my window borders disappear! How do I fix this

-Make that you have Window Decorations Checked.

[mc6415]

Hey great guide, I have one query though, I have installed compiz through synaptic, and when I look for System>Preferences I can't see advanced desktop effects, this is on 8.10 intrepid, how do I get to this menu?

EDIT: Got it now, forgot to add it in add/remove.

[rushikesh988]

cool guys I HAVE SET MY 3D desktop withthe help of all you guys



you all are really awesome

thanks to all !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:popcorn:

[jpeddicord]

Updated the thread title to stay trendy. :D

[sendblink23]

Fastest & Easiest way to make your 4 Workspaces with 4 different Wallpapers:

Keyboard: alt-f2
Run: gconf-editor
Head to: apps->nautilus->preferences, and uncheck the show-desktop box
Head to System>Preferences>ccsm,

Search: wallpaper *Click it*
*Enable it, then inside there *Background* click *New*.. Add a Wallpaper Image for the current Workspace.

Change Workspace, Add another Background Image *New*... keep doing this till you have done all 4 Workspaces with each different Wallpaper Image...

You are done.

[tilerwen]

I really appreciate this guide! I had so many questions after installing Ubuntu.:)

[tarvinder]

Great Guide. I've been desperate to enable desktop effects, while running Ubuntu 7.10. However I was unable to enjoy the experience because of my ATI 200M card on my laptop. I've just upgraded to Ubuntu 8.10 x64 and WoW! desktop effects worked like charm out of the box without any hassle on the same laptop, same card. I'm surprised. Ubuntu people have made it simple. After knowing that effects are working, I came back to this guide and I've added the additional packages such as simple config compiz manager and I'm pleased to have extra animations and effets. Thank you. I'm really enjoying them.

[mrsnacker58]

also go to run, type gconf-config, go to apps, compiz, apps, and mess around

[wjoyce]

also go to run, type gconf-config, go to apps, compiz, apps, and mess around

Correction to the above - it's gconf-editor, not gconf-config. :)

[jjpcexpert]

I cant get a shortcut for Xkill in Gnome or Compiz! another FAQ singular

[tjeremiah]

Every time I enable the scale feature in compiz and logoff or reset, the feature is disabled while other compiz features arent.

[Godly]

This is awesome! Thanks for all the useful posts. :guitar:

[Godly]

You da man! Thanks.

[hp owner]

for those of you how want a vista like start menu, install gnomenu, it is a customize able menu for linux. it works great

[jpeddicord]

Moved this FAQ to Desktop Environments because
There were too many stickies in General Help
It's more relevant here


:)

[Jpardue]

This is a great list of information Jacob, thanks alot

[biji]

I use gnome-do with docky for dock like mac osx

[emeraldgirl08]

As of this writing I am AMAZED by what Linux can do!

\\:D/

Thanks for helping us Noobs with this info!

[Manigoldo]

Thanks for the guide, very nicely done and answered many of my questions

[CylnZ]

Fastest & Easiest way to make your 4 Workspaces with 4 different Wallpapers:

Keyboard: alt-f2
Run: gconf-editor
Head to: apps->nautilus->preferences, and uncheck the show-desktop box
Head to System>Preferences>ccsm,

Search: wallpaper *Click it*
*Enable it, then inside there *Background* click *New*.. Add a Wallpaper Image for the current Workspace.

Change Workspace, Add another Background Image *New*... keep doing this till you have done all 4 Workspaces with each different Wallpaper Image...

You are done.

Thanks, this was just what I was alookin for :KS

[UbuntuNerd]

this is a good link for compiz: http://my.opera.com/ubuntunerd1/blog/how-to-install-compiz-fusion-in-ubuntu-hardy

[zero1one0]

i like graphical effects especially the compiz
but i find that just setting the ubuntu default graphical effects to max is enough for me

this is just my opinion if u like the added effects you can do wtv u want

[whole.grains]

Thanks, this was just what I was alookin for :KS

Yes great post. Thanks!

[factorgaming]

Hai! this really helped me lot to sort off my problem. Thanking you

[DCGStudios]

Next step is to get rid of your gnome panel if you want to. Many here using AWN as I saw, so have I been for a while. I switched to KiBa tho in the meanwhile. It is very customizable, and once set up, which can easily be done by modifying a .xml file, as stable as AWN.
BUT: you may use more than one instance of it, unlike AWN. This was the main issue for me to take a shot at KiBa, and I dont regret anything :)


I could use some help with getting the multiple instances of KiBa working. I only found one thread about it and there were 0 replies. Enjoying the thread so far, keep it up! :popcorn:

[Bill.the.noob]

Hey there all. I enjoy all posts on this thread. I'm finding this forum very helpful as I'm a greenhorn to linux. My predicament is this. I have recently installed compiz on my desktop {Ubuntu 9,04} and everything works great except for the animations . I can't seem to get any of them working after hours of messing around. Anyone else come across the samething. I really like the flaming windows when they close, but right now i have to hold my lighter up to the screen to get a similar but crappy effect. I found a similar problem on another thread by Phantom Hoover " Compiz not working" I'm going to try their solution and see how far I get. Thanks Sorry peeps . No such luck. Must be a conflict issue. I might as well uninstall it . The novelty of it is starting to wear off a bit. Later!

[Pogibry]

I too had some initial problems setting up my compiz.... for some stupid reason it would go back to default settings after I spent a while customizing it. Oh well. I love it now!!! I'm trying to ween myself from my windows dependency ;)

[skryzak]

thanks!! cube is my favorite so far.

[Dobbie03]

Thanks, I have returned to Ubuntu and I am loving it, I wish I had never reinstalled windows.

[finch127]

For everyone who wants quick window manager switching:

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1207203

[overdrank]

For everyone who wants quick window manager switching:

http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1207203

And the fusion-icon (apt:fusion-icon)

[Dullstar]

I was having an issue with the desktop cube, but I figured out what went wrong. The "Rotate Cube" option was turned off.

[techfanboy81]

I just want to know what is the difference between Compiz and Compiz Fusion? Or they're just the same?

[Capt. Blackwood]

Damn, i never know you could do all that with ubuntu. I'm willing to bet that would cost a ton of money to get all that in windows (I feel ashamed that i did fork some cash to stardock).

I'd like to know how to display all my desktops in Cube/switcher? The site had a shot of it and i forgot where it was.



(I've been using ubuntu for less than a day and i'm loving it. minus the fact i may need a small Install for Windows XP)

[Her Ghost]

What is it called where you don't have a menu bar on the screen, but you can click somewhere on the desktop and have the menu appear at your cursor?

I have seen loads of screenshots of this in action, but I don't know what it is called so I can't search for it!

Here is an example: http://www.fluxbox.org/screenshots/screenshots_full/screenshot_zan.png

This is obviously running fluxbox (which I have tried, thought was cool, but don't have the energy to start configuring everything at this stage!)

Basically, I guess: Can I get the floaty menu thing on Gnome, instead of having to use fluxbox or another WM/DE?

[stinkeye]

What is it called where you don't have a menu bar on the screen, but you can click somewhere on the desktop and have the menu appear at your cursor?

I have seen loads of screenshots of this in action, but I don't know what it is called so I can't search for it!

Here is an example: http://www.fluxbox.org/screenshots/screenshots_full/screenshot_zan.png

This is obviously running fluxbox (which I have tried, thought was cool, but don't have the energy to start configuring everything at this stage!)

Basically, I guess: Can I get the floaty menu thing on Gnome, instead of having to use fluxbox or another WM/DE?
I don't think there is a right click menu in gnome but there is a keyboard shortcut "show the panel's main menu" which will show the menu at the cursor when there is no menu applet on the panel.

[costryan]

Thank you so much if it wasn't for you i would've just have no borders!

[simartem]

i have everything installed correct. I am running compiz without any problems but cairo dock bacground is not transaparent. There is a black box. How can i make it transparent ?



*-display UNCLAIMED
description: VGA compatible controller
product: Radeon 9100 IGP
vendor: ATI Technologies Inc
physical id: 5
bus info: pci@0000:01:05.0
version: 00
width: 32 bits
clock: 66MHz
capabilities: agp agp-3.0 pm bus_master vga_palette cap_list
configuration: latency=64 mingnt=8

[Capt. Blackwood]

I'm seeing users with their entire panel/bar transparent to some extent...how do ya'll do that?

Btw the system monitor screenless as a wonderful thing to have when i want to see how my system is doing on the fly. Just minimize the window and look.

[hariks0]

Please refer
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=891922&page=2

I have set the command 'main menu' under button binding as shift+button3. If there is no launcher for main menu in any panels, the main menu will pop up at the mouse cursor.

If your desktop is not drawn by nautilus so that you can have different wallpapers in each desktop. Then the button click will trigger main menu only if clicked on either panels.

Otherwise - your desktop is drawn by nautilus - the button click will trigger main menu at anywhere in the screen [over launchers, panels, open windows, terminals etc]

[Her Ghost]

thank you! that's exactly what I wanted!

(sorry for the delay in responding!)

[plutonium45]

my desktop became uber cool :D
I booted off windows years ago..
if these visual effects run on windows ..the processor will burn !!

[Animortis]

Nevermind, figured it out.

[Iron Calves]

I was wondering if there are anymore effects/animations that I could download? Can anyone provide a link? I looked but didn't find any.

[hariks0]

Do you know that all except the current window could be made transparent upto 100 %. Well, it is by System > Preferences > Compiz Configuration Settings Manager > Accessibility > ADD Helper. Enable it and set the opacity to 30 to 40 %.

[moss_gtr]

I am trying to get the 3d desktop to work, but when i goto the CompizConfig Settings Manager, the Horizontal Virtual size is set to 4, the Vertical Virtual size is set to 1. However, the Number of Desktops is set to 1. I cannot change the number of desktops and I am wondering if that is the reason the cube is not working for me.

[hariks0]

I am trying to get the 3d desktop to work, but when i goto the CompizConfig Settings Manager, the Horizontal Virtual size is set to 4, the Vertical Virtual size is set to 1. However, the Number of Desktops is set to 1. I cannot change the number of desktops and I am wondering if that is the reason the cube is not working for me.

Set up compiz desktop size to 4 horizontal, 1 vertical and 1 desktops. Enable Desktop Cube, Enable Rotate Cube and last but not least, set the visual effects to Extra in Appearance Dialog.

[SecretCode]

I am trying to get the 3d desktop to work, but when i goto the CompizConfig Settings Manager, the Horizontal Virtual size is set to 4, the Vertical Virtual size is set to 1. However, the Number of Desktops is set to 1.


Set up compiz desktop size to 4 horizontal, 1 vertical and 1 desktops.

The setting "Number of desktops" confuses me. If you set horizontal to 4 (as default), don't you effectively get 4 desktops? Certainly the workspace switcher applet calls them "Desk 1" to "Desk 4".

If you set vertical to more than 1 you get a matrix of desktops (or whatever) in expo view - fine. But the desktop cube and rotate effect don't give you access to the vertical dimension.

So why is there another setting for number of desktops? But what is supposed to happen when you set number of desktops to more than 1? Expo view doesn't show it - the only way seems to be via the 'workspace switcher' gnome panel.

Basically, for anything more than 1 vertical and 1 "desktop" there seems to be no consistency between the various means of navigation. Does anybody routinely use more than 1 vertical or more than 1 in the "number of desktops" setting?

[hariks0]

The setting "Number of desktops" confuses me. If you set horizontal to 4 (as default), don't you effectively get 4 desktops? Certainly the workspace switcher applet calls them "Desk 1" to "Desk 4".

If you set vertical to more than 1 you get a matrix of desktops (or whatever) in expo view - fine. But the desktop cube and rotate effect don't give you access to the vertical dimension.

So why is there another setting for number of desktops? But what is supposed to happen when you set number of desktops to more than 1? Expo view doesn't show it - the only way seems to be via the 'workspace switcher' gnome panel.

Basically, for anything more than 1 vertical and 1 "desktop" there seems to be no consistency between the various means of navigation. Does anybody routinely use more than 1 vertical or more than 1 in the "number of desktops" setting?

If vertical is set to more than 1, select a desktop from the lower set of the desktops using the 'workspace switcher' of gnome panel. You will be able to rotate those desktop cube as well. Use wallpaper plugin to view the differnt desktops and the resulting cubes.

[SecretCode]

Thanks hariks0. (By wallpaper plugin do you mean expo? 'Wallpaper' controls the background image afaics.)

What about navigation when 'number of desktops' is more than 1?

[hariks0]

Thanks hariks0. (By wallpaper plugin do you mean expo? 'Wallpaper' controls the background image afaics.)


Wallpaper plugin is used to have different wallpaper images in each desktop. You will have to disable Nautilus drawing your desktop.


What about navigation when 'number of desktops' is more than 1?

I have not checked that. Will reply as soon as I try.

[hariks0]

What about navigation when 'number of desktops' is more than 1?

I have not checked that. Will reply as soon as I try.

It is not possible to increase the value of Number of Desktops more than 1 in ccsm. I changed the value in gconf-editor to 2 and there was no difference. Key discription in gcong itself said that the range allowed is [1 - 1].:)

[SecretCode]

It is not possible to increase the value of Number of Desktops more than 1 in ccsm. I changed the value in gconf-editor to 2 and there was no difference. Key discription in gcong itself said that the range allowed is [1 - 1].:)

Hmm. I can change it to more than 1 in ccsm, on Jaunty. Currently running with 4 horizontal and 3 vertical workspaces, and 5 desktops. I just don't know how this is really supposed to work ... but I think it's a question for the compiz forums.

[hariks0]

Hmm. Jaunty currently running with 4 horizontal and 3 vertical workspaces, and 5 desktops. I just don't know how this is really supposed to work ... but I think it's a question for the compiz forums.

I use Karmic. BTW, did you try the wallpaper plugin?

[SecretCode]

Yes, the wallpaper plugin is ... ok ... one drawback is that it doesn't draw under my transparent gnome-panels. At least the way I have it set so far.

[Lepodo]

Thank you, a very good FAQ that helped me alot.

[rapidog]

Tell me, when Gnome 3.0 arrives will this thread be obsolete since Gnome 3.0 does not support Compiz?

[Garnett]

Where do Conky and Fluxbox fit into this?

[a2i3s]

Thanks Sir. :)

[xtracool_protik]

Hi jpeddicord,
Thanks for the FAQ helped me a lot when i started with compiz.
Today I've a request can u come up with something similar for ecomorph?
Thanks in advance

[LinFor]

Tell me, when Gnome 3.0 arrives will this thread be obsolete since Gnome 3.0 does not support Compiz?

They will develop independently

[eldinv]

i just installed Ubuntu 9.10 like 30 mins ago. already did my updates and restricted drivers for my video card.

thank you all for taking the time to show us newbies what we need for these effects. i just placed my copy of windows vista in the fireplace :lolflag:

so many headaches. now i got to look for the best programs for converting my avi and mkv files to DVD. i already noticed DeVede, ill give it a try. i loved my ConvertxtoDVD:(

[lovecatss]

very good.

This is not a topic for asking questions. (Unless you can of course provide an answer along with it.)

The FAQ

Compiz
What is Compiz Fusion?
Compiz is what is known as a "compositing manager." It enables your desktop to run faster than with traditional window managers, and allows you to be more productive. Compiz controls the effects you see on your desktop: Shadows, animations, "the cube," and a whole bundle of other fun effects.How do I know if Compiz is enabled (How can I disable Compiz?)
On Ubuntu 7.10 and up:
Open System > Preferences > Appearance. Click on the Visual Effects tab. If Compiz and desktop effects are enabled, Normal, Extra, or Custom will be selected. If Compiz is disabled, None will be selected. To switch modes, simply click on another selection. Changes take effect immediately.Be sure to keep simple-ccsm installed so that the Custom option remains available in Visual Effects.


You can also access it from System > Preferences > Advanced Desktop Effects Settings or by opening a terminal (or Alt+F2) and typing ccsm.
Contributing
Attention forum members:

Want to have a chance to contribute to "The Great FAQ of Desktop Effects?" Then join me in the planning of one of the biggest events to hit this forum (well, stickies anyway). We're going to build a nice big topic to put right at the top of the forum page to hang out with the "Blacklisted?" topic. Anyone and everyone is welcome to contribute.

Interested? Great! Here's what you need to do:
Find a question about Compiz, Desktop Effects, Theming, or anything related that is fairly frequently asked, even if it may seem obvious. It can even be one of the questions above that is marked "to be written b2b website (http://www.alipapa.us)." Post your question as a reply to this thread in a format similar to:


or


Be sure to either include a link to the topic with the answer or provide the answer directly. The questions and answers will be edited into the main post (this one). I'll probably edit your questions and answers to fit them in with the rest of the questions, but the idea will remain the same.

[Claus7]

Hello,

ehmm, this is the first time I'm posting on a sticky (if I remember correctly), so please be kind as usual!

I was thinking to write a thread on my own, yet I stepped upon this one, which I think a good place to write some things about compiz. So let's get started:

What we want to do:
try transparency

This post does not provide anything new. It just gathers things around the web about transparency in compiz. What I did refer to 10.04 version.

The look and feel of compiz is really nice, allowing many tampering with the options it provides. Looking around the net, I was able to see many beautiful and transparent windows, panels, menus, e.t.c., so here I sum up all these things.

Transparency can be divided in general in 3 different categories: windows, panels and menus.

Windows: the transparency of windows can be achieved pretty easily, from ccsm either from opacity or opacity, brightness and saturation menus.

Panels: this can be done pretty easily as well, right clicking on a panel, choosing properties and then customizing the panel to your liking.

Menus: menus can be distinguished in PopupMenu and DropdownMenu

The PopupMenu category are the ones which pop up during work. For example if you use opera as your web browser then if you right click on an empty space, you will see a menu. This one is a popupmenu.

The DropdownMenu category refers to the menus of the panels. In your default Desktop environment you have to panels (bars). The top one has Applications, Places and System. The menus that appear if you click on these, are the dropdownmenus.
These menus and their transparency is achieved differently than the one of the panels.

The difficulty in making transparent the menus is maintaining the text opaque (solid, not affected by transparency). There is a debate about this, and I have found that it can be achieved either by tampering codes or by choosing combination of themes.

Here I provide only some configurations, that will make these menus transparent, not loosing a lot in the opaqueness of the text.

In order to achieve the above follow figs 1 to 4 with the options I provide. In case you want to change settings you can do so by adjusting opacity, brightness and saturation from 0 to 100.

Also with the gnome-color-chooser you can adjust the menu colors to your liking and much much more.

Regards!

ps: helpful threads
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=964943
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=956039
http://newyork.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1285124
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=706226
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1395491
http://ubuntu-ky.ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1193287

http://wiki.compiz.org/WindowMatching
http://www.ghacks.net/2009/08/22/get-some-serious-transparency-in-gnome-and-compiz/

[starbase1]

Hello All,
I did a clean install moving to Lucid Lynx, and now I am having problems gettng my desktop back the way I liked it...

One of the coolest desktop effects was being able to scroll a mouse wheel over a blank bit of desktop, to move between them.

But now I am struggling to work out which combination of compiz settings I need to make this happen! Can anyone enlighten me please?

[hariks0]

Hello All,
I did a clean install moving to Lucid Lynx, and now I am having problems gettng my desktop back the way I liked it...

One of the coolest desktop effects was being able to scroll a mouse wheel over a blank bit of desktop, to move between them.

But now I am struggling to work out which combination of compiz settings I need to make this happen! Can anyone enlighten me please?

It is the viewport switcher.

[starbase1]

It is the viewport switcher.

I have found that, and turned it on, but nothing is happening.

I suspect I need to do something with the desktop based viewport switcher settings tab, but I can't work out how to tie the actions (move next and move prev I assume?) to the mouse wheel...

[hariks0]

Hope the screenshot helps. :guitar:

Let me add that Button4 and 5 are nothing but the scroll wheel of your mouse.

[hariks0]

Hello friends,
i have upgraded ubuntu from 9.10 to the latest version which is released, the problem is that, my desktop has become all hazy and blurred nothing is SHARP.
:sad:
Pls help how can i fix this.

One picture conveys more than 1000 words do. Why don't you post a screenshot ? We will be able to help you more.

[starbase1]

Hope the screenshot helps. :guitar:

Let me add that Button4 and 5 are nothing but the scroll wheel of your mouse.

Aha! That explains it - I was wondering why the program designer appeared to be using a keyboard on wheels judging by the number of button!

Everything now working as intended in this department,
Thanks!

[abhishekbiwal]

I upgraded from ubuntu 9.10 to 10.04 and my display is all hazy not sharp at all pls help:(

[jpeddicord]

I upgraded from ubuntu 9.10 to 10.04 and my display is all hazy not sharp at all pls help:(

overdrank split your posts into here: http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1473019

Please reply there, as this FAQ is not a support thread and you will get better help in your own thread.

[karmila]

Do you know that all except the current window could be made transparent upto 100 %. Well, it is by System > Preferences > Compiz Configuration Settings Manager > Accessibility > ADD Helper. Enable it and set the opacity to 30 to 40 %.

Another great compiz effect!

Cool... let me focus on my focus window

This effect is made for me, lol :P

[hariks0]

Another great compiz effect!

Cool... let me focus on my focus window

This effect is made for me, lol :P

I installed peek effect for compiz and now inaddition to getting a peek preview I am getting all the windows transparent when I move mouse over any panel. That is also very cool.:)

[nodnarb1982]

Just installed Ubuntu 10.04. I had been running version 9.04 for about the past year. Anyways, I decided to do a fresh install of 10.04, and everything is running fine. One thing I did immediately notice is some of the options in Compiz are now gone. The settings I am referring to are the Cube deformation (the setting that allowed deforming the cube into a sphere or cylinder) and the setting that allowed the windows to be raised when rotating the cube. I'm sure there are more that are missing as well, just not sure what they are yet. I don't understand why any settings (especially ones like raising windows) would be removed, but would be greatly appreciative if someone could inform me on where they went! Thanks so much!

[jpeddicord]

Added that to the FAQ:


I can't find some of the plugins mentioned in this FAQ. Where are they?

As of recent Ubuntu releases, these are now available in compiz-fusion-plugins-extra (apt:compiz-fusion-plugins-extra), which is not installed by default.

[wkhasintha]

Thanx alot

[vince2678]

Compiz cannot update the mouse cursor theme when it is updated in GNOME. Install this package to allow compiz to notice the change and feel free to modify it however you want. PLEASE read he control info!

Unfortunately only works with GNOME. If anyone has LXDE and XFCE please send me info on how it stores info about cursor theme and size and the program used for changing cursor theme. I have KDE in a VM so I'll try something there.

LINK: http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1557297

[xtracool_protik]

Thanks Vince,
I always wondered whats up with that. I'll check out the package you have posted and see how it works out :)

[xtracool_protik]

Hey it says

The file link that you requested is not valid.
I think file is not been uploaded properly?

[vince2678]

The link was updated. The old file no longer exists, but a new one does.

[Gaygerbil]

You guise should add how to add and customize Cario, AWN, and Docky docks.

Also adding stuff about Enlightenment would be really useful. Both docks and other window managers are pretty popular on this forum.

Oh and Conky, def useful to add that to this FAQs, there's tutorials for that in a bunch of different places.

You can also put videos of people showing things that would def help people (it helped me learn a lot by watching other people do things)

Also things about customizing your panel would be nice. Great FAQs though. :]

[jpeddicord]

You guise should add how to add and customize Cario, AWN, and Docky docks.

Also adding stuff about Enlightenment would be really useful. Both docks and other window managers are pretty popular on this forum.

Oh and Conky, def useful to add that to this FAQs, there's tutorials for that in a bunch of different places.

You can also put videos of people showing things that would def help people (it helped me learn a lot by watching other people do things)

Also things about customizing your panel would be nice. Great FAQs though. :]

Let me know exactly what to edit in and I'll add it. I'd love to make this thread editable by others to make things easier, but sadly I don't think it's possible.

[xtracool_protik]

Hey Vince that link worked :)
However check these 3 screenshots, I'm not sure if it really suppose to be this way (normal cursor is still default everything else changes perfectly).
Or am I still missing something?

[xtracool_protik]

Sorry screenshots doesn't show editing cursor or hand cursor.

Anyway the point was default cursor stays same but all other action cursors are working properly
Thanks

[xtracool_protik]

And I wanted to show off my desktop :D
Thanks to all u guys
Have a look at it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_1B9SGr3Ws

[vince2678]

Hey Vince that link worked :)
However check these 3 screenshots, I'm not sure if it really suppose to be this way (normal cursor is still default everything else changes perfectly).
Or am I still missing something?

Minor error. Symbolic links cant be replaced by ordinary files so the file /usr/share/icons/default/index.theme could not be replaced. Remove it and try rerunning gnome-appearance-properties.

Hope that helps!

[xtracool_protik]

yup that worked
there is only one exception in my themes list for which it still provides default cursor.
I would assume thats something to do with that theme

[The Cyph3r]

And I wanted to show off my desktop :D
Thanks to all u guys
Have a look at it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_1B9SGr3Ws

Damn dude. Thats a masterpiece right there.
Would you mind posting a list of what you've got running there?
For example: The media workspace was just...wow.

[xtracool_protik]

Hey thanks a lot :D glad u liked it (I wanted to do some more but don't have that much time :P )
Anyway here is all that I can recall while making it (if I've missed anything please point out I'll post it again)
Compiz:
Cube deformation - Cylinder, Semi transparent while rotating
Wallpaper plugin - word of advice - u can't use conky with wallpaper plugin else it would have been awesome
Skydome - not animated to make it look like cylinder is rotating in some kinda box (I wanted top of cylinder not to be transparent as I removed bottom wanted that butterfly to be vivid from bottom as well - though couldn't do it)
Particular Workspaces
Terminal workspace - check here http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1509854
Media workspace - Its all done through screenlets
1. equilizer - for equilizer
2. lyrics - for lyrics
3. ring clock - for clock
4. output - for dmseg

Well I suppose thats all there is,
I'm looking into elive and few more simple and elegant setups out there on gnome-look.org will upload if I manage to make something good again (will take quite a while)
Hope this helps have fun :popcorn:

[The Cyph3r]

The thing I'm wondering is, are those screenlets on top of a BADASS wallpaper, or music player, etc?

[xtracool_protik]

yup thats just plain ole' wallpaper ;)

[The Cyph3r]

I've found a very nice skin (http://g3xter.deviantart.com/art/BlueVision-V0-2-Alpha-162478234) that I'm wondering can be configured to work in Ubuntu. It's apparently only available for Windows, but I'm curious if there's a visually identical version, or it can be migrated over.

[xtracool_protik]

thats pretty neat
U won't find anything exactly similar (no prebuilt skin) but I'm sure u can manage to get it with conky (temp, cpu/ram/network usage, hdd, weather) and screenlets (rss reader, digital clock, weather, amarok or any music player etc) and a good wallpaper.
I would like it that way as well but as I said wallpaper plugin and conky doesn't go together (I need to check on current status though)
P.S. I don't have windows and I didn't see wat all things that rar provide things I mentioned above r just my opinion from wat I read in its description

[Cavsfan]

And I wanted to show off my desktop :D
Thanks to all u guys
Have a look at it http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_1B9SGr3Ws

That is an amazing video! Do you have a power machine maybe an I7. And did you use recordmydesktop?
It looked like you did. I get some screen flicker when I try that.
Just curious as to how you created such a flawless video. I got the wallpaper plugin and Atlantis fish working and it looks pretty sweet.

[jpeddicord]

That is an amazing video! Do you have a power machine maybe an I7. And did you use recordmydesktop?
It looked like you did. I get some screen flicker when I try that.
Just curious as to how you created such a flawless video. I got the wallpaper plugin and Atlantis fish working and it looks pretty sweet.

For Compiz and most desktop effects you'd really want a good GPU, not necessarily a CPU. You could have a pretty standard processor and a 9800 graphics card and get very good results.

[xtracool_protik]

Hey thanks :D
Here are my specs

C2D 2.4 GHz T8300
4GB DDR2 RAM
Intel GM965 graphics card
I won't call it power machine though its decent, I would have loved a graphics card :D
yes I used gtk-recordmydesktop and I don't get flicker not sure wats going wrong at ur place (I used mencoder to convert from ogv to avi and then used mencoder to attach song to it, recording through mic was giving a bad quality for sound)

[Cavsfan]

For Compiz and most desktop effects you'd really want a good GPU, not necessarily a CPU. You could have a pretty standard processor and a 9800 graphics card and get very good results.

I have:
Core 2 Quad CPU Q9550 @ 2.83GHz
4GB RAM DDR2 800
NVIDIA GeForce 9800 GT 512MB

It runs Modern Warfare 2 (my son) at 60-70 FPS in windows 7.


Hey thanks :D
Here are my specs
Quote:
C2D 2.4 GHz T8300
4GB DDR2 RAM
Intel GM965 graphics card
I won't call it power machine though its decent, I would have loved a graphics card :D
yes I used gtk-recordmydesktop and I don't get flicker not sure wats going wrong at ur place (I used mencoder to convert from ogv to avi and then used mencoder to attach song to it, recording through mic was giving a bad quality for sound)

I should be able to do this then shouldn't I. Maybe I had too much Compiz stuff going on.
I had snow, atlantis fish tank, and some other things.

Thanks to both of you for the fast reply!

[xtracool_protik]

Hey Cavsfan,
Thats an awesome system, u can totally do it.
And I don't have any experience with NVidia cards but r u using proprietary drivers or open source or edgers ppa? if ur using open source drivers then I would suggest proprietary or edger's drivers (but please do it after u r sure of important backup.)
I don't think any of compiz effect causes a flickering but I would try to record it without snow, fish tank is fine.

[Cavsfan]

Hey Cavsfan,
Thats an awesome system, u can totally do it.
And I don't have any experience with NVidia cards but r u using proprietary drivers or open source or edgers ppa? if ur using open source drivers then I would suggest proprietary or edger's drivers (but please do it after u r sure of important backup.)
I don't think any of compiz effect causes a flickering but I would try to record it without snow, fish tank is fine.

I am just using the suggested driver in Hardware Sources. I wonder if it would be worthwhile to see about getting a newer driver.
I dual boot windows 7 and a new driver comes down the pipe every so often. I know we have upgraded the windows driver 10 times at least.
And there have been huge improvements!

Kind of squeamish though about messing what I have up. I did a clean install of 10.04.1 last week and no more monitor clicking noises!
It used to click 2-3 times during boot and I knew that couldn't be good.

I have a 28" Hanns-G 1080p LCD monitor with a native resolution of 1920x1200.
(before that I had a 12 year old Dell with a 17" monitor! :))

Could it be that the resolution is too big? I tried using this alternative to recordmydesktop which worked pretty well.
And I didn't need to use Jack for the sound. I just played an MP3 in Totem and the sound was awesome!
Couldn't use Rhythmbox as one is apparently alsa and the other pulseaudio.

HOWTO: Proper Screencasting on Linux
(http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1392026)
But, I still had the occasional flicker.

[xtracool_protik]

Hey Cavsfan,
I don't have exact same hardware so I may be wrong (or shooting in dark) here but as per my knowledge the drivers u r using r open source drivers.
If u have 32 bit Ubuntu installed I would say install http://www.nvidia.com/object/linux-display-ia32-256.53-driver.html drivers from that link
else if u r interested in bleeding edge open source drivers (sometime may go wrong as very much in development phase) look at https://launchpad.net/~xorg-edgers/+archive/ppa

[Cavsfan]

Hey Cavsfan,
I don't have exact same hardware so I may be wrong (or shooting in dark) here but as per my knowledge the drivers u r using r open source drivers.
If u have 32 bit Ubuntu installed I would say install http://www.nvidia.com/object/linux-display-ia32-256.53-driver.html drivers from that link
else if u r interested in bleeding edge open source drivers (sometime may go wrong as very much in development phase) look at https://launchpad.net/~xorg-edgers/+archive/ppa (https://launchpad.net/%7Exorg-edgers/+archive/ppa)

Thanks a lot!!! But I think I just upgraded my video driver from version 195 to 256.52! :D
I wanted something real recent and looked for quite a while and found this:
(July 3rd 2010)
Update nVidia drivers. (http://gamblis.com/2010/07/03/install-nvidia-256-35-display-drivers-in-ubuntu/)
I had to add a PPA and some other stuff and when I rebooted I looked in Hardware drivers and did not notice anything different.
But, when I looked in NVIDIA X server settings I seen the 256.52! And the instructions are for 256.35, so I must be on the latest.
Smoking! :D
So, I'll have to try some stuff out! Right now I have to eat lunch as I am way late!

Thanks for your help and I will report back if that helped, but I cannot see it not helping!
:popcorn:

[wkhasintha]

Hey Cavsfan,
I don't have exact same hardware so I may be wrong (or shooting in dark) here but as per my knowledge the drivers u r using r open source drivers.
If u have 32 bit Ubuntu installed I would say install http://www.nvidia.com/object/linux-display-ia32-256.53-driver.html drivers from that link
else if u r interested in bleeding edge open source drivers (sometime may go wrong as very much in development phase) look at https://launchpad.net/~xorg-edgers/+archive/ppa

Much thanx for this valuable information sir.:popcorn:

[there.is.only.xul]

I think it should be noted (at least for us GNOME users) that the GTK Window Decorator can be modified to a degree in gconf-editor. As of right now, the four options people sticking with GTK/Metacity have available off the bat are menu, minimize, maximize and close.

For those using any theme where the controls are on the left or are not in the "Correct" positions, the changes to be made under the apps/metacity/general section for the button_layout entry should be:
menu:minimize,maximize,close

That's how you get the little white circle that is the window menu on every window. Now here's a question: When will Emerald be updated so there is an extra titlebar option called combined menu/program icon? Like in Windows, you click the program icon to access the window options? Could be enabled by adding P to the titlebar layout, for example...

[Cavsfan]

Anyone running Maverick with the wallpaper plugin getting it to work? Since I installed Maverick 64 bit, when enabling the wallpaper effect
and unchecking the Show Desktop option in gconf-editor > Apps > Nautilus > Preferences it just freezes.
I have close window set to burn and when it closes the screen fills with fire like it normally would, but it just partially closes. The wallpaper
does not change and when I try to spin the cube, there is no wallpaper and it is just transparent. I have to uncheck wallpaper for it to go
back to normal.

[MathewBracken]

Nice replay.I think it should be noted (at least for us GNOME users) that the GTK Window Decorator can be modified to a degree in gconf-editor. That's how you get the little white circle that is the window menu on every window.

[ThatLucidGuy12]

Thanks man. I owe you a few pints of (free) beer and a place in my bookmarks. Also gotta love the water effect.

[Joshua Goins]

Some of is a AD instead of a FAQ

[hariks0]

Anyone running Maverick with the wallpaper plugin getting it to work? Since I installed Maverick 64 bit, when enabling the wallpaper effect
and unchecking the Show Desktop option in gconf-editor > Apps > Nautilus > Preferences it just freezes.
I have close window set to burn and when it closes the screen fills with fire like it normally would, but it just partially closes. The wallpaper
does not change and when I try to spin the cube, there is no wallpaper and it is just transparent. I have to uncheck wallpaper for it to go
back to normal.

The last link in your signature [if meant anything] is not working. It would be great if you update the same with correct link to video, web page etc.:popcorn:

[hariks0]

...

That's how you get the little white circle that is the window menu on every window. Now here's a question: When will Emerald be updated so there is an extra titlebar option called combined menu/program icon? Like in Windows, you click the program icon to access the window options? Could be enabled by adding P to the titlebar layout, for example...

Can you please clarify this? I did not get what you mean.:)

[Ricalsin]

Linux absolutely rocks! Not just the graphics, the whole architecture.

Message for the CREATIVE TYPES: Most YouTube tutorials are very informative but not really "marketable" - as in "pass it along" types. If you guys can begin to make some 10-30 second videos that are eye-popping it can really help us ex-Microsoft people to get our friends on board the Linux train. Like this one: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxfSwzhSn1c&feature=related)

But keep those boring tutorials coming - need em too!

(Awesome thread!) :p

[Ricalsin]

Linux absolutely rocks! Not just the graphics, the whole architecture.

Message for the CREATIVE TYPES: Most YouTube tutorials are very informative but not really "marketable" - as in "pass it along" types. If you guys can begin to make some 10-30 second videos that are eye-popping it can really help us ex-Microsoft people to get our friends on board the Linux train. Like this one: (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxfSwzhSn1c&feature=related)

But keep those boring tutorials coming - need em too!

(Awesome thread!) :p

Also, put it to great NEW music - as we all know the Internet has struggling artists that are far more talented than what you see on American Idol. Use this awesome OS to promote the whole concept of "talent" and "ingenuity."

[nush]

Anyone running Maverick with the wallpaper plugin getting it to work? Since I installed Maverick 64 bit, when enabling the wallpaper effect
and unchecking the Show Desktop option in gconf-editor > Apps > Nautilus > Preferences it just freezes.
I have close window set to burn and when it closes the screen fills with fire like it normally would, but it just partially closes. The wallpaper
does not change and when I try to spin the cube, there is no wallpaper and it is just transparent. I have to uncheck wallpaper for it to go
back to normal.

anyone managed to sort this yet
thanks

[Cavsfan]

I ended up going back to the LTS and it works great once again, but the only problem is you cannot have conky,
as show_desktop has to be enabled so I don't use the wallpaper plugin.

But, that is a good question on Maverick. :)

[Cavsfan]

Anyone running Maverick with the wallpaper plugin getting it to work? Since I installed Maverick 64 bit, when enabling the wallpaper effect
and unchecking the Show Desktop option in gconf-editor > Apps > Nautilus > Preferences it just freezes.
I have close window set to burn and when it closes the screen fills with fire like it normally would, but it just partially closes. The wallpaper
does not change and when I try to spin the cube, there is no wallpaper and it is just transparent. I have to uncheck wallpaper for it to go
back to normal.

The last link in your signature [if meant anything] is not working. It would be great if you update the same with correct link to video, web page etc.:popcorn:


I hadn't seen this post before today, is there a link in my sig. that doesn't work? They always have worked for me. :confused:

[hariks0]

I meant
Lucid Lynx 64 bit / Win 7 64 bit. Is it not a comparison of these OSs?

[Cavsfan]

I meant. Is it not a comparison of these OSs?

That is just text displaying my OSs beside the 3 links.

[Copper Bezel]

anyone managed to sort this yet
thanks

I guess I should note that in 10.10 32-bit, I have the wallpaper plugin working, but only for CompizStandalone and only if I don't have my external monitor attached on login. The trick was to set a 7-second delay after Compiz starts before any other startup application or service starts.

It can be fixed while running, under Gnome or whatever else, by switching to a VT and back, and it'll go on working for the rest of the session, regardless of what you do.

[Kate the Enthusiast]

Something cute for Ubuntu 11.04 (Unity desktop)?
Sublets and others seem to not work here.

[nush]

hi, thanks CB
im just on with updating to natty so i will see what the future holds.
nush

[RageMachine]

hello allz just to add to what cgkades said on page 3 i think it was.


there is a way to auto start emerald, and I'm surprised no one has posted about it yet. in the ccsm, you can click on "window decorations" and change the line from "/usr/bin/compiz-decorator" to "/usr/bin/emerald --replace"if for some resin you did what to install ccsm or any of the compiz stuff, you can still get emerald to auto star by doing the fallowing.


go to system/preferences/startup applications
click add and enter the fallowing for
name : emerald
command : emerald --replace
comment : starts emerald

[mörgæs]

After 367,202 views this guide has served its purpose, and after agreement with Jpeddicord it has now been put to rest. Thanks to everybody participating.

A new guide on the same topic is available here:
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1892851


Enjoy!