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Windows 95 Icons

Show Bitmap Thumbnails Instead of Icons

SUMMARY: Would you like to see actual thumbnails of bitmap files in Windows 95 Explorer?

When looking at bitmap (.BMP) files with Windows 95, are you tired of seeing the standard bitmap icon? How would you like to see an actual miniature snapshot of the bitmap file? If so, follow the below instructions.

** IMPORTANT: This tip involves editing the Windows Registry. Back it up before continuing. If you are uncomfortable editing the registry, do not attempt to perform this tip! **

Click on the "Start" button, choosing "Run." Type in "regedit" and press ENTER. Now, navigate the registry tree as follows - HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT, then Paint.Picture, then DefaultIcon. Under "Default" on the right-pane of the registry editor, you will probably see something like "C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM\cool.dll,41." Double-click this line to modify the item. Replace the item with %1 (that is a percent sign and the number one). Press the OK button, then close the registry editor.

You may need to reboot the computer or Win95 for this trick to work.

Return to the Windows 95 Icons page.

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The MalekTips website was created in 1998 by Andrew Malek of Envision Programming. The page's goal is to freely disperse computer-related tips, hints, and informative articles. Tips are organized to be easy to find, and are presented clearly, in easy-to-understand language. MalekTips also provides information and links to public-domain, open source, freeware, shareware, and commercial software available for download. < more >