Linux learning curve
KDE or K Desktop Environment is a graphical user interface (GUI) for
Linux. In lay terms it is a program which runs on Linux and gives it a
Windows look and feel. Here we will look at the different programs that
come with KDE. This review was done under Caldera's Open Linux 2.4
System Tools in KDE
Kcontrol: The KDE control center is the first stop in fine tuning your
Linux machine. You can change the way your desktop looks in Desktop. COAS
is used to make system changes. You will have to log in as root for this.
Under COAS- system-daemon, you can specify the programs you want to start
at boot time. It is important to do this as by default Linux loads quite a
few programs on its own which may not be needed.
KPager: A unique feature of KDE is multiple desktops. Kpager is a handy
tool that lets you see, resize or close windows on any desktop and move
them within or between desktops.
KFile Manager (KFM): KFM is the default file manager for KDE. Copy, move
or link files and folders using Kfm. You can also bookmark your choice.
KFM is also a full featured web browser, ftp client, archive utility. It
acts as a server for other KDE applications.
KFontmanager: Add and remove available fonts on your system using this
tool.
KDE Setup Wizard: The wizard starts up when you run Linux for the first
time. However apart from the beautiful picture of Kandalf the Wizard,
there is nothing much to say for this utility.
KFloppy: This is a tool for formatting floppies in Linux(ext2) as well as
DOS.
Kpackage: It displays all installed and un-installed packages on your
system .You can see which files are included in an installed package and
also open that file by clicking on it. Use Kpackage for installing your
rpm files.
KTop: The KDE Task Manager. It displays the processes currently been run
by the machine. It also features a processor load and memory usage
monitor.
Webmin: The powerful net based administration system. Use this to
control anything and everything on your machine. From choosing your
default boot OS to making new partitions on your hard disk, Webmin does it
all.
Xvidtune: This program helps you to fine tune your monitor display. AVOID
unless you are a geek.