VDM is written in C++ and is a Win32 API application (non-MFC). It uses a simple Algorithm: when switching to a new desktop, handles to all the windows on the current desktop are saved to a list and hidden. Next, the windows on the destination desktop are shown. VDM does not need to track the creation and destruction of windows--the "current" desktop's list isn't created until you switch away from it.
To hide windows, VDM calls the Win32 API function ShowWindow with the SW_HIDE parameter (primary method) or uses SetParent to set the window's parent to a hidden window owned by VDM (alternate method, selected with the -a command-line parameter). Some programs seem to agree more with one method than with the other--try both, and see what works best for you.
To use Virtual Desktop manager (VDM):
Simply run VDM.EXE. (No installation is needed.)
Four numbered icons will appear in the tray. #1 will be highlighted, indicating that desktop 1 is active. (You can specify an alternate number of virtual desktops on the command line--See the "Command-line options" section.)
All windows open when the program loads start in desktop 1.
To switch desktops:
Left-click an icon to switch to the corresponding desktop.
Alternatively, press Ctrl+Alt+1..9 to switch to desktop 1..9.
To move the Active Window to another desktop:
Right-click an icon to move the active window to the corresponding desktop.
Alternatively, press Ctrl+Shift+1..9 to move the active window to desktop 1..9.
To Exit VDM:
Double-click any tray icon to bring up the "About" box, which has an "Exit" button.
Alternatively, press Ctrl+Alt+0 to exit VDM.
When you exit, all windows on all virtual desktops will be placed on the physical desktop.
