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2.5. Desktop Effects - Compiz Fusion
Compiz Fusion is a 3D window manager that makes use of 3D accelerated graphics cards found today on many desktops and laptops. It provides a number of visual effects that makes the Linux desktop more powerful and intuitive, as well as easier and more fun to use. For example, you can place workspaces on a cube, which enables you to move from one workspace to another easily.
Compiz Fusion is enabled by default on Ubuntu 8.04 LTS with appropriate graphics cards. It enables the 3D desktop visual effects that improve the usability and visual appeal of the system. You really have to see and play with this application to appreciate the benefits.
Procedure 2.4. To view the visual effects on Ubuntu:
1. On the System menu, point to Preferences and click Appearance. The Appearance Preferences dialogue box appears.
Figure 2.34. Opening the Appearance Preferences Dialogue Box
2. In the Appearance Preferences dialogue box, there are three pre-configured levels of special effects set- tings: No effects, Normal effects and Extra effects. You can select any one of them:
Figure 2.35. Configuring Visual Effects
If you want a simple desktop without any special effects, select None. If you want a desktop with a balance of attractiveness and average performance, select Normal. If you want various desktop effects, such as wobbly windows, desktop cube and many more, select Extra. For example, while you are waiting for an update to complete or an e-mail client to import e-mail messages, you can turn on the Wobbly effect. The windows will start dancing and displaying the 3D effects. Play with it a little, it's fun!