xp and gadgets

Tuesday, October 28, 2008 by putter66 | Discussion: Windows XP

how can I use gadgets on xp

DorkCoffeez
Reply #1 Tuesday, October 28, 2008 10:48 PM

Nearly all gadgets require Desktop X to run in one form or another. Here is the product info page to explain the software in detail:

 

https://www.stardock.com/products/desktopx/

 

Some gadgets are self installing and running but most will require at least the runtime version of Desktop X. If you have more questions or questions about specific gadgets let us know!

SirSmiley
Reply #2 Tuesday, October 28, 2008 11:29 PM

If you're referring to Vista Sidebar gadget's then the only way is via a patched/hacked bar. There are thread's about this either at Neowin or WinMatrix. Doing it most likely will invalidate your computer warranty and definitely not recommended for computer novices.

Bichur
Reply #3 Tuesday, October 28, 2008 11:59 PM

Nearly all gadgets require Desktop X to run in one form or another...

 

?

I thought:

 

ojects = need dtx up and running

widgets = need dtx installed but doens't have to be running

gadgets = selfcontained shouldn't need dtx

HG_Eliminator
Reply #4 Wednesday, October 29, 2008 1:27 AM

gadgets = selfcontained shouldn't need dtx

Last I remember this was correct, DX gadgets were self contained EXE, that could be used on any PC. But maybe things have changed..

BigDogBigFeet
Reply #5 Wednesday, October 29, 2008 5:15 AM

Hi putter66,

There is a web site that has Gadgets made with DesktopX 3.5 Pro that are fully contained exe and require no addtional software to run on your XP OS. 

It is: adni18.com  Just check out his gallery the downloading is free.

*edit* I adjusted the above link so it takes you straight to the gadgets gallery.

What SirSmiley was referring to is hacking the Vista sidebar to make gadgets that weren't designed for the vista sidebar work on it.  Not advised.  DesktopX 3.5 Pro will also compile gadgets to run on the Vista Sidebar and does not require any hacking of system files and such gadgets are safe to use with Vista.  I know this isn't what you asked but, I thought I would clear up any confusion.

There are also DesktopX gadgets in the WC Galleries that are fully compiled standalone exe's but as Seabass indicated you have to search for them.  For example if you searched the DesktopX Widgets Gallery for adni18 you would find this: adni18 widgets.  I think most of these if not all are standalone gadgets.  There are more standalone gadgets available at the first link I gave you.

So, check out these links and you will find what your looking for.

You can also find DesktopX here which will enable you to run all of the widgets in the WinCustomize DesktopX Widget Galleries.  Just click on the download link on the above DesktopX link to download and install a free evaluation version of DesktopX.

I think that will get you going.

pjamme
Reply #6 Wednesday, October 29, 2008 8:48 AM

They may be standalone for vista, but they are not on XP.

 

I revisited and did find some Standalone gadets for XP.  Hurray!.

Adni18 has a wonderful website, been there many times for Object Desktop stuff and wallpapers.  My favorite dx theme is one of adni18's

thanks bigdogbigfeet

BigDogBigFeet
Reply #7 Wednesday, October 29, 2008 9:15 AM

They may be standalone for vista, but they are not on XP.

You are mistaken.  There most certainly are standalone gadgets available for XP.  I posted links to some.

SirSmiley
Reply #8 Wednesday, October 29, 2008 11:22 AM

I think we're all trying to explain the same thing.

Simply put if the file extension is .gadget then it won't run as a standalone app natively on XP.

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