virtual desktops

Long-time users of X will likely know about "virtual desktops", the
feature that allows the display to show only a rectagular *selection*
of a virtual desktop; the region selected can be moved smoothly by
"pushing" the cursor to the edge of the screen. This seems to disturb
Windows/Mac users who are used to a fixed desktop but it's a wonderful
feature, especially with small displays such as ultraportables. Add
something like

Virtual 2400 1800

to a Display subsection of the Screen section of xorg.conf to try it
out. Notice how much more flexible and convenient this is than the usual
KDE/GNOME approach of clicking to an *independent* desktop.

The bad news is that the xorg folks have decided to kill virtual
desktops. If you want them to re-consider, please add a comment
supporting the following enhancement request:

https://bugs.freedesktop.org/show_bug.cgi?id=11418

The request is for adding a hook to the X-server code that will allow
window managers and "desktops" to implement virtual desktops easily.
Thanks.

Bob T.

Bob Tennent staggered into the Black Sun and said:
> Long-time users of X will likely know about "virtual desktops", the
> feature that allows the display to show only a rectagular *selection*
> of a [Screen]; the region selected can be moved smoothly by "pushing"
> the cursor to the edge of the screen.

You keep using those words "virtual desktops" when you mean "virtual
screens". Get your terminology right; it makes it easier for people to
understand you. "Virtual desktop" is generally used to refer to an
abstraction that the WM (not X) provides.

> This seems to disturb Windows/Mac users who are used to a fixed
> desktop but it's a wonderful feature

"Out of sight, out of mind" ring a bell? I guess you never saw the
wailing and gnashing of teeth from users who hated virtual screens
before XRANDR hit the mainstream in 4.3.0.

> Notice how much more flexible and convenient this is

....notice how it's insanely easy to lose track of where your windows
are, and a total PITA to get a window to occupy the entire visible area
of a Screen....

> The bad news is that the xorg folks have decided to kill virtual
> [screens]. https://bugs.freedesktop.org/show_bug.cgi?id=11418

I see you filed this bug. Don't be surprised if most users say "meh".

--
I will rule you all with my iron fist. YOU! Obey the fist!
--Invader Zim
Matt G|There is no Darkness in Eternity/But only Light too dim for us to see