Figure 2-1. Utilizing proprietary graphics drivers.
Activating desktop visual effects
As with all modern operating systems, Ubuntu includes a number of desktop visual effects that mean program windows fade into view when first activated, or visually shrink when minimized. This can make using Ubuntu a much more pleasant experience.
Visual effects are made possible through the use of advanced graphics drivers. On systems utilizing some Intel or AMD/ATI graphics chips, open source versions of such drivers are available and will be installed by default, but for computers utilizing certain graphics chipsets, proprietary drivers must be installed for desktop effects to work. You can tell if your computer has desktop effects already activated by holding down Ctrl+Alt and hitting the left or right arrow keys. This will activate virtual desktop switching (I explain more about this in Chapter 3). If the desktop “slides� out of view, visual effects are already activated and no further work is needed. If you see a small panel appear in the
22 : Configuring Ubuntu