'Desktop' toolbar

[ddsteve]

Hello,
I've always found that accessing desktop contents to be easiest via the 'desktop' toolbar and then to simply scroll (arrow keys) though desktop items and folder contents.
The 'problem' is that the only way to access the 'desktop' tool bar is by clicking on the '>>'. How can it be accessed via the keyboard? Is there even a keyboard shortcut to the 'desktop' toolbar? (If there isn't, there really should be)
Thanks,
Steve

[Miz]

I'm not sure I know what you mean by "desktop tool bar" but the use of the >> indicates you're talking about the Start Menu which by default is set to scroll programs rather than show them all.

To open the start menu with the keyboard, just press the windows key located at the botton of the keyboard between the Ctrl and Alt keys.

If you want to get rid of the scrolling feature, right click on the Start button, go to Properties, then click on the Customize button then to the Advanced tab. Uncheck "Scroll Programs," click OK and OK again.

[ddsteve]

Hi-
Right click on an empty area in the task bar/ choose 'Toolbars'/ choose 'Desktop'. A 'Desktop' toolbar w/ a double 'greater than' ( >> ) will appear to the left of the 'clock/volume/etc' area. Click on the >> and a menu with the contents of your desktop will appear. The arrow keys will allow you to navigate through the entire contents of your desktop (single files, folders, etc).

My question is "What keyboard shortcut or hot key will allow me to access that 'Desktop >>' menu without having to remove a hand from the keyboard, grope a mouse, and click."

(Obviously I'm a keyboard person and find 'mousing' generally time consuming and greatly increases the amount of hand movement. If you spend hrs/day on a keyboard and fatigue or carpel tunnel are a concern, consider the Dvorak layout. It'll reduce the distance your fingers/hands travel by about 2/3. )

Thanks-
Steve

[Miz]

Okay, now I understand.

Hit Ctrl/Esc to change focus to the start button, ignore the start menu opening. Then press the tab key to cycle through the Quick Start icons to your Desktop toolbar.

I used to teach high school business courses, including typing. The QWERTY layout is so ingrained in my muscle memory that learning a new keyboard is a whole lot more work than I'm willing to do.

[ddsteve]

Miz
Thank you sooo much. My digits can barely contain their delight while the mouse has a decidedly dejected demeanor.

Your help and expertise are much appreciated.
Steve