How to Add Custom Gadget to Vista
With Windows Vista, Microsoft introduced a new element to the operating system, called the Windows Sidebar. The Sidebar displays by default at the right side of the Vista desktop and includes "Gadgets," graphical elements that display information. Twelve gadgets come standard, including a photo slide show, a sticky notes utility, a clock and RSS feed reader. It is easy to add gadgets, regardless of whether they are already installed, to the sidebar.
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Instructions
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Open the Sidebar. By default the Sidebar should appear, but if you closed it and unchecked the Properties checkbox marked "Start Sidebar when Windows starts," you'll need to open it. Click on the Start menu and type "Sidebar." When you see the entry "Windows Sidebar," click on it to open the Sidebar.
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Click on the "+" button at the top of the Sidebar. A window will appear with 12 gadget choices. Drag any one of them to the Sidebar and it will stick there.
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To find and add other gadgets, click on the link that reads "Get More Gadgets Online."
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Go to the "Top Downloads" and "Top Rated" gadget lists, or use the search box at the top of the screen to find something more specific. If you're the adventurous type, click on the "Create a gadget" link at the right to learn how to make your own gadgets.
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Click on its "Download" button when you've found a gadget you want and then click on "Install." In the dialogue box that appears, click on "Save."
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Double-click on the saved gadget and choose "Install." Once the gadget is in your Sidebar, you may delete the installation program if you want.
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Repeat the process to install more gadgets.
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Tips & Warnings
To remove a gadget from the Sidebar, put your cursor over it and click the "X" that appears to the gadget's right. The gadget will still appear in the "Gadget Gallery" window, so if you change your mind you will not have to redownload it.
To reposition a gadget, bring your mouse cursor over it and then click and drag the dotted drag-bar that appears to the gadget's right.
