How to Add and Configure Applets with Cinnamon on Linux Mint

Cinnamon is a popular and user-friendly desktop environment that comes pre-installed with Linux Mint. One of its standout features is the ability to enhance the desktop experience with applets—small, useful programs that run on the panel. Applets provide additional functionality such as system monitoring, weather updates, clipboard management, and more. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of adding and configuring applets on Cinnamon Desktop in Linux Mint.

Understanding Cinnamon Applets

Applets are small applications that reside on the Cinnamon panel and provide specific features or enhancements. By default, Linux Mint comes with a set of built-in applets, but users can also install third-party applets from the Cinnamon Spices repository. These applets improve usability, accessibility, and productivity by offering quick access to essential functions.

Examples of Useful Applets

• System Monitor: Displays CPU, memory, and network usage.
• Weather Applet: Shows real-time weather updates.
• Clipboard Manager: Helps manage copied text history.
• CPU Temperature Monitor: Displays the system’s current temperature.
• Menu Applet: Provides an alternative application launcher.

Adding an Applet in Cinnamon Desktop

Adding an applet to the Cinnamon panel is straightforward. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Open the Applet Manager

1. Right-click on an empty space on the panel.
2. Click on “Applets” from the context menu.
3. This will open the Applet Management Window, displaying available applets.

Step 2: Enabling an Installed Applet

1. Browse through the “Installed” tab to view pre-installed applets.
2. Click on the applet you wish to enable.
3. Press the "+" button at the bottom to add it to the panel.
4. The applet should now appear on the panel, ready for use.

Installing New Applets

Cinnamon allows users to extend functionality by installing additional applets from the official repository.

Step 1: Open the Applet Download Section

1. Open the Applet Management Window as described earlier.
2. Navigate to the “Download” tab.
3. Wait a moment for the list of available online applets to populate.

Step 2: Install a New Applet

1. Scroll through the list or use the search bar to find a specific applet.
2. Select the applet you want and click “Install”.
3. Once installed, switch back to the “Manage” tab to enable the applet following the same steps as enabling a pre-installed one.

Configuring and Customizing Applets

Most applets allow customization to tailor them to your needs.

Step 1: Access Applet Settings

1. Right-click on the applet on the panel.
2. Select “Configure” (if available).
3. A settings window will open with various customization options.

Step 2: Adjust Applet Preferences

Each applet has unique settings, but common options include:

• Display style: Change icon size, position, or appearance.
• Behavior settings: Modify how the applet interacts with the system.
• Custom hotkeys: Assign keyboard shortcuts for quick access.
• Network configurations: Useful for weather or system monitoring applets.

Make the necessary adjustments and save the changes.

Removing Unwanted Applets

If an applet is no longer needed, it can be easily removed from the panel.

Step 1: Disable the Applet

1. Open the Applet Management Window.
2. Go to the “Manage” tab and select the applet.
3. Click the "-" button to remove it from the panel.

Step 2: Uninstall the Applet (If Necessary)

1. Switch to the “Download” tab.
2. Locate the installed applet and click “Uninstall”.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sometimes, applets may not work as expected. Here are some common problems and solutions:

Issue 1: Applet Not Appearing After Installation

Solution:

• Ensure you have added the applet to the panel via the Applet Management Window.
• Restart Cinnamon by pressing Alt + F2, typing r, and hitting Enter.

Issue 2: Applet Crashing or Freezing

Solution:

• Check for updates to the applet in the Download tab.
• Remove and reinstall the applet.
• Restart Cinnamon or log out and log back in.

Issue 3: Applet Not Displaying Correct Information

Solution:

• Check the applet’s configuration settings.
• Ensure dependencies (like weather API keys) are correctly set up.
• Verify your internet connection for network-related applets.

Conclusion

Applets are a fantastic way to enhance the Cinnamon desktop experience on Linux Mint. Whether you need a system monitor, a quick-access menu, or a weather forecast on your panel, Cinnamon’s flexible applet system has you covered. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily add, configure, and manage applets to personalize your desktop environment efficiently.