Ubuntu Applet Management

Applets are small programs that live within the panel and often interact with the user in some manner by providing information or entertainment. The lower panel has the pager and trash can located in the lower right hand of the Desktop. The pager, is an applet which allows the user the ability to switch to three different work spaces with the click of the mouse. If you right click the pager you can modify the properties of the pager. You will be able to alter the number of desktops available as well as create a name for each desktop that you will use.

Some users prefer to create separate desktops for the applications that they want to run on each desktop. For example one desktop may have a terminal session while another desktop would have graphical creation tools running and yet on another a spreadsheet.

The pager, or switcher, is an applet that will allow you to easily modify the workspaces that are available.

The trash can is an applet found in the lower right corner of the Desktop. This will allow you to have a second chance on any files that you delete. You may choose to “Open” the trash to view the content or you can “Empty Trash” to eliminate those files found in the trash. Once they are removed from trash they are gone for good.

The upper right panel has a clock, which is an applet and also you add other applets like a battery status meter.  Right click on the applet and you will have the option to move it.

Applets are just small programs that deliver information to the user. Applets may be added to the panel by right clicking on the panel and choosing to add a selected applet. The applets themselves may be configured by right clicking on the applet in order to make necessary changes, like adjusting the time. Here is an example of the Invest applet to track your stocks. Right click the panel select Invest and then right click the applet to add your stocks.

The applet can track any number of stock you would like to enter. If you enter your stock ticker, the price you paid, and the number you purchased, it will track those stocks from the Yahoo website and give the information on how they are doing.

If you double click the applet you can select charts that will go with your stocks.

Applets are a great way to add features to the Desktop that enhance the working environment.