WinXP Explorer problem

Explorer views resets

from Stardock Forums
I have not yet purchased this product and would if it will alleviate the following problem:
WinXP Pro Explorer settings constantly keep resetting to different windows sizes and views. I have tried everything ever suggested for alleviateing the problem in the native XP system and was hoping that a skin such as used here might not fix the problem. Can anyone answer this question for me?
Thanks
2,626 views 6 replies
Reply #1 from WinCustomize Forums Top

WinXP Pro Explorer settings constantly keep resetting to different windows sizes and views

Please explain this statement in more detail.

Are you trying to set specific sizes for the Explorer shell by resizing manually, and the OS is not remembering the size you last had it running at?

If so, have you used "Folder Options" and clicked the "Restore defaults" button under both the General tab, and the View tab?

The Object Desktop programs can do a lot for the GUI, but programs like WindowBlinds skin the explorer shell, and are therefore still subject to the rules that explorer plays by.

Reply #2 from Stardock Forums Top
"If so, have you used "Folder Options" and clicked the "Restore defaults" button under both the General tab, and the View tab?"

Yes, tried all of this many times in various combinations. I does'nt hold!

OK. I set up a folder of, say, "Audio Utilities". I move all my audio programs into the folder and put it on my desktop. When I create and load the folder, I resize it, place the open folder in a specific location and specify 'Icons' for the view. I do all the things that you suggested and maybe it lasts for a day or 2. Then, one day I open it and it has changed to 'List' view or maybe something else and the open folder has completely resized itself to a very large, but not full screen window and moved itself to some random location on the screen, maybe even half of the open folder is off of the edge of the screen.

I am not manipulating or interfering with the views with my Explorer usage when in file scan mode. I thought that if I didn't fool with this everything would be OK so I purchased 'PowerDesk' and use that for all my file management so that the WinXP Explorer isn't disturbed.

This thing is driving me nuts!
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Reply #3 from WinCustomize Forums Top

Have you tried selecting "Launch folder windows in a seperate process" under Folder Options/View tab?

If not, you might try that and then set-up the folder, size, and view.

I have never used PowerDesk, so I have no idea whether this could be creating a problem.   

Reply #4 from WinCustomize Forums Top

One thing you might try is this:

Resize your window, and then hold the "Shift" key while closing the window with the old red "X".

Failing this, and if you have used a lot of resizing, it is possible that you have reached the maximum remembered folder views - though it is my understanding that this number has been increased to 5000 with SP2.

If you are familiar with working with the registry, you can try using the registry tweak (item #2) here http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm (this is offered as is, with no guarantee though).

Reply #5 from Stardock Forums Top
In reply to both of your responses, I have tried everything that you have suggested. I have only 11 folders, so I seriously doubt that I have reached any maximum.

You missed the sequence of events on my use of PowerDesk, this problem started long before any thought of seeking another file manager. PowerDesk came along only a short time ago and has had absolutely no effect on this problem.

You might be interested in the fact that I belong to the O'Reilly "Annoyances" forum and this was kicked around until everyone agreed that it is a WinXP problem that is inherent in the WinXP build. That is why I was asking if WindowBlinds might be able to alleviate the problem. If no one knows or has an answer, than I will just give up and live with Microsoft's stupidity.

Anyway, thanks for your suggestions. You are apparently very experienced in handling WinXP menuing and your efforts have been greatly appreciated.
Reply #6 from WinCustomize Forums Top
I think that I can put some finality to this post. I installed WindowBlinds and reset all of my folder views under that system and they all failed at about the same time that they would have failed under WinXP Explorer. WindowBlinds was no help.

Thanks to those who tried to help.
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