Running Vista
after installing a new video card has been nothing but a pleasant
surprise. Over all system speed has improved dramatically,
windows runs faster, windows open faster and many new features
are now also available. Windows transparency was the biggest
change noticed right after system update. Desktop looked much
sharper and cleaner. Folders, sub folders and control panel
has improved visually as well.
Windows transparency
After assessment of Windows Aero, Direct 3D Alpha
Blend and Direct 3D Alu here are a few examples of how new
windows look. What is Windows Aero? Windows Aero is the visual
experience of Windows Vista which features a transparent glass
design with window animations and new window colors (yes,
lots of new colors).
Nicest thing I like so far is
how windows minimize and restore, how applications open and
close. I hope to show the effect here although it might be
a bit difficult. Please note how window minimizes in 3D look
with a see through feature.
I hope that you notice how window simply
flies away into the background. It is really a nice effect
and I must say Microsoft job well done. For full size images
click on the above captions.
Another great feature that I noticed is windows transparency.
Yes, you can see through your applications or any open folders
that you might have.
Of course all these feature can be easily
adjust using Window Color and Appearance screen (see picture
below). Here you can change to color of windows, the start
menu and the taskbar.
Part of the Windows Aero experience is Windows
Flip 3D, which lets you open windows in 3D stacks. And of
course last but certainly not least is the Aero 3D desktop
look which will show any folders or applications that you
have open and it makes it very easy for you to chose which
window you wish to return to.
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