cannot change windows without minimizing first

[Guest]

I run several windows open most of the time, and sometimes I cannot display
another window without first minimizing the current window. I have tried to
use ALT-TAB, and it shows the open windows on the screen, but will not
switch. The only way to change is to minimize the window I have displayed.
All the experts I have discussed this with are baffled. I have checked
settings, even called Dell (this is a new Dell computer) and they bluntly
told me it is a Microsoft problem and refused to discuss it. Any ideas?

 

[Rick Rogers]

Tell Dell you're returning it if they can't fix it. If they don't, follow
through with the threat.

Most likely the cause is a background application or process. The trouble is
figuring out which one. You can selectively kill unneeded (and possibly
conflicting) processes from Task Manager until you isolate the problem.

--
Best of Luck,

Rick Rogers, aka "Nutcase" - Microsoft MVP

Windows help - www.rickrogers.org

 

[Guest]

Goto the following link:

http://download.microsoft.com/download/whistler/Install/2/WXP/EN-US/TaskswitchPowertoySetup.exe

On the right-side pane you will see a download list. Click on the:

Alt-Tab Replacement
Taskswitch.exe
534 KB

Download and install and check if it solves the problem.

Further, while working in multiple programs can you switch between programs
by clicking on Taskbar Buttons?

Let us know!

 

[Guest]

Thanks I will try that. I have attempted to locate if any other programs
running cause this, and even after closing all of them, I can get down to 3
open windows, and at some point it will release. Since we use IM as an
intercom, I frequently cannot see my message as I have to minimize everything
to see it. I will try your suggestion, thank you very much.

 

[Guest]

strangely enough, I thought this worked. But, the windows show upon using the
alt-tab feature, but still will not always change. Have attemped to "end
process" on items in Task Manager, one at a time, and there appear to be no
changes. I have 1GB of memory, and am curious if Outlook is creating the
problem. Usually only run Outlook and IE6 and sometimes ACT 6.0 (happens
whether or not this is running). Any further ideas?