Desktop object placement

[DYahoo]

How can I place objects on the desktop in XP according to my needs as opposed to the preset system slots? For instance, when I move my winzip shortcut on the desktop, I don't want to only be able to place it into another slot preset by Windows 1 inch up, down, left or right. Why do I bother? Because if you miss and accidentally place one shortcut on top of another, the whole configuration of desktop shortcuts changes as they all jump one spot up, down, left or right. And then I have to re-position them again and it's such a pain. I liked the way you could do it in 2000. I hope I'm making myself clear.
D

 

[jimp56]

right-click on the desktop. expand "arrange icons by" -- make sure "auto arrange" and "align to grid" are UN-checked. arrange icons as you wish.

 

[bcastner]

Right-click a blank area of the desktop.
Right-click Arrange icons by...
Uncheck "Auto-arrange"
Checkmark "Align by grid"

 

[bcastner]

Align by grid" would not create the behavior seen by this poster.

It is a convenience, by I agree with you jmp56 it could be disabled.

I add my own favorite hack: Save you icon placement settings and restore them if they get screwed up. This is a native NT utility, there are third-party tools to do the same:

http://users.rcn.com/taylotr/icon_restore.html

 

[jimp56]

I stand corrected re: grid align. It is helpful in lining them up once you have the order and placement sorted. I do use it for that.

Nice icon utility- didnt know such a thing existed. Thanks.

 

[bcastner]

jmp56,

No big deal.

I too love the "layout.dll" from the earlier resource kit hack under XP.

Free, works great, and native Microsoft stuff.

Best,
Bill