openSUSE 10.2

Chapter 1. Getting Started with the GNOME Desktop / 1.4. Using the Main Menu
	1.3. Desktop Basics		1.5. Accessing Folders and Files

1.4. Using the Main Menu

Open the main menu by clicking Computer on the far left of the bottom panel. Commonly used applications appear in the main menu. A search field lets you quickly search for applications and files. You can access additional applications, listed in categories, by clicking More Applications.

Figure 1.2. Main Menu

The main menu contains several elements. Each of these elements is described in the following sections.

1.4.1. Search Bar

The search bar helps you find applications and files on your system. For more information about using the GNOME desktop’s search function, see Section 1.5.3, “Finding Files on Your Computer”.

1.4.2. Show Menu

You can determine which icons appear in the main menu by clicking the Show menu. There are three available views:

1.4.2.1. Favorite Applications

By default, the Favorite Applications menu shows icons for several commonly used applications. Use this view to show the applications you use most often.

To add an item to your Favorite Applications:

Click ComputerMore Applications.
Right-click the application you want to add.
Select Add to Favorites.
The selected application is added to your Favorite Applications.

To remove an item from your Favorite Applications:

Click Computer.
Make sure that your Favorite Applications appear in the main menu.
If Favorite Applications does not appear in the Show menu, click the menu and select Favorite Applications.
Right-click the item you want to remove.
Select Remove from Favorites.
The removed application no longer appears in your Favorite Applications.

1.4.2.2. Recently Used Applications

Recently Used Applications shows the last several applications you have started. Use this view to quickly find applications you have used recently.

1.4.2.3. Recent Documents

Recent Documents shows the last several documents you have opened. Use this view to quickly locate the documents you worked on most recently.

1.4.3. System

System provides shortcuts to several system applications.

Table 1.3. System Shortcuts

Application	Description
Help	Opens the Help Center, which provides online documentation for your system.
Control Center	Helps you customize and configure your system. For more information, see Chapter 2, Customizing Your Settings.
Install Software	Opens the Software Installer, which guides you through the process of installing new software.
Lock Screen	Locks your system so nobody can access it while you are away. Enter your password to unlock the system.
Log Out	Opens the Log Out dialog, where you can log out, shut down or restart your system, or suspend the computer.

1.4.4. Status

Status displays information about your hard drive and network connection, including the amount of available space on your hard disk and the type of network connection you are using.