If you're using XP and want to try out one the cooler of Vista's 3D graphics features, I've got the tool for you.
With lots of graphic sizzle, and an Alt-Tab click, TopDesk rotates, twists, and tiles all of your open and minimized windows onto the Desktop. You can then choose the app you want to switch to with the arrow keys or mouse.
TopDesk emulates Vista's Windows Flip 3D
TopDesk has other ways to tile your applications, say, in neat grids, with everything done using configurable hot keys. TopDesk also supports more than one monitor. I tried it with my side-by-side ViewSonic monitors (a 20- and 23-incher) and I have to tell you, it looks good.
Neatly tiling with TopDesk
The site has screen shots and videos so you can see TopDesk in action. The program costs $15 and there's a 30-day trial. If nothing else, grab the trial and play around. It's better than doing the project you know is due soon, right?
More Ways to Emulate Vista
If you're suffering from Vista envy, but aren't sure you want to take the plunge, click here to take a look at "Make Windows XP Act Like Vista." Of all the tools I mention, my favorite is the Vista Start Menu SE. It's available here as are all the products I mentioned in the column
