Installing Desktop Themes

from WinCustomize Forums
I'm a little ignorant where this is concerned, as I've never done it, so can someone give me the low-down on exactly how to install a desktop theme that I've downloaded? And if there is any pertinent info I need to be aware of when doing-so? Thanks much.
2,063 views 19 replies
Reply #1 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Do you have DX installed? https://www.stardock.com/products/desktopx/downloads.asp
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Reply #3 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Yes
Reply #5 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Yes
Reply #7 from WinCustomize Forums Top
No
Reply #8 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Ok, there is a great deal in this file, as well as pointing you to other downloads. What other (if any) programs do you need to download, and what exactly do you use to install desktops?
Reply #9 from WinCustomize Forums Top
I downloaded and attempted to install the "Dark Industry" theme, but the whole thing won't load correctly. It won't even show up as a theme file.
Reply #10 from WinCustomize Forums Top
All's you need for DX Themes is DesktopX. I haven't a clue what downloads it's directing you to, unless it's to more DX Themes, Objects or Widgets. You're going to have to elaborate what you mean by "Desktop"...what are you looking to skin?
Reply #11 from WinCustomize Forums Top
I downloaded the above mentioned file (and some others). When I launch the DX program, the themes I dl'd do not show up as a theme at all that is available to load.

So, when I click on the package itself from the zipped file, it only loads a few images (and not correctly) on my desktop, but not the entire theme. It also seems to be causing massive bugs and crashing on my system.
Reply #12 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Read through this https://www.stardock.com/products/desktopx/infoguide.asp and you'll get a better understanding of DX....it should not be crashing. Just make sure any Themes you download are not for a newer version then you have installed. It will state in the Themes comments that you need a newer version, if, in fact, it does.
Reply #13 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Hmmm... I'll keep reading, but I'm having some bad issues that don't make sense.

Does my system have to be on Xp style to use? I have it on Windows Classic Style.

BTW... the theme "mmj" is corrupt with a virus I just detected (though that's not what caused my problems).

Reply #14 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Oh, and no... all the themes I've downloaded seem to state they are for the free version (or under) I just downloaded.

I even put the packing file in the "Themes" folder of the DX program, yet it will either not show up as a theme at all, or will not totally load correctly (i.e. many missing images etc.)
Reply #16 from WinCustomize Forums Top
After you un-zip the file (if it's zipped) then double click on DesktopX Package and it will install. It sounds like you're mixing both Objects and Themes.
Reply #17 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Mmm... that's exactly what I've tried, about 39 times now

I see the difference between objects and themes, but I'm not messing with that.

To make it simple, here's what I've done:

1)install DX
2)unzip theme into My Documents
3)double click the theme's main file...

...when it goes to load, it only loads like one side image (like maybe the one with CPU usage etc.) depending on which theme I'm trying to load.

No other images are loaded, and my desktop looks the same (if not very buggy in action) except for one image.

Wallpapers are not loading, nor are the icons/bars changing anywhere on my desktop like they should.

I make sure I "New Theme" and opt to clear the settings before loading the new theme.

I've even tried, as stated, putting the theme's file in the "Theme" folder in the DX program folder, but it will not show up in the pop-up box when attempting to load a theme, which tells me there's a problem.

So, that's the run-down... can't figure my way around it.
Reply #18 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Let's see if the DX install is right: Download 'Weather Forecast' by Martin. You don't have to have DX running, just click on it and it will run. https://www.wincustomize.com/skins.asp?library=34


Most DX themes will not come with the wallpaper and it will not change any of your XP icons or Task/System bars.
Reply #19 from WinCustomize Forums Top
What will downloading this prove? It will not work if the DX install is wrong somehow?

Actually, from the screens I've seen, most of these themes (I've dl'd, anyway) are supposed to change the look of your taskbar etc. as well as come with wallpaper (which are in the zip files) but like I said... I can barely get any of the images to load, period.

Doesn't make any sense.