Well...
You can do some things that may make things a bit better, but what kind of
graphics card are you using? How much RAM does it have?
Without knowing the specifics, I can only be very general. But before you
go spend any money, try the following:
1) Right-click on the desktop, and select Properties
2) Then select the Appearance Tab
3) Then Effects
Are most of the items checked on? If so, try turning off the fancy
features, such as transition effect, shadows, and show contents while
dragging. They consume resources that your video card might be short on,
yet are not critical for operation.
Say OK to accept the changes you make.
Now select the Settings tab.
Consider adjusting your color quality down one notch, if you can accept
that. (say, 16-bit instead of 32-bit) 256-colors will not be very pleasant.
Consider setting your resolution to 800x600, instead of 1024x768 (if it's
set that high) -- you'll need to rearrange your icons later if you change
that.
These should help improve video performance, but a speedier card may be your
best bet. They are getting very inexpensive for 64MB cards.
Good luck, post back if you like, with more details on your card, and
whether these suggestions helped.
-Lawrence in Seattle
