Related
hello to all
I installed Orange Homescreen on my WM5 blue-angel.
It it by far the cleanest plug-in I've ever used! Two problems though:
1. The URLs seem to be hard coded - anyway of changing that?
2. On the contacts "tab" there is an option for speed dial, but it generates an error when I try to use it - is there some other CAB I need to install?
Thank you!
Hi AdmiralAK,
I love the Orange today plugin too, but have had a lot of trouble installing it on the other Rom's for my Universal. Can you tell which files you used to install it :?:
As for the problems your having:
1. The URL's can be changed by editing the Full_one.xml file.
But your still limited to four.
2. In the Orange Rom, some of the files have a lower case t prefix.
Try changing renaming your speed dial executable. It might work :wink:
Thanks!
I downloaded the homescreen cab from somewhere on this board (this was a few days ago so I am not completely sure). I found two versions. One was in the ftp://xda-developers.com/Universal/Extended_ROMs/Orange Extended ROM/
(this one I did not install because I had the otherone already installed)
(ok after a little looking I found it)
I am actually using the Orange Homescreen from the Orange SPV M3100 (hermes device) - this is the one that is installed on my Blue angel and it works without a problem. --> I am attaching it.
(I apologize to the forum for postnig the same file again - I cannot find the link to it)
----
As for the speed dialer - I don't think I have the application installed on my blue angel (I am using the 1.3beta rom from HELMI and I don't seem to be able to find it) in my device - any idea where to get it?
Also, is the XML file that I need to edit in the windows/ directory?
Thanks
google tells me that the full_one.xml file is in my windows directory...but I dont see it :-/
The CAB from the Orange Ext ROM is just the reg settings, its no good without the files from the Orange ROM.
I'll try the file you posted this weekend [if I get the chance] :?
Yes, the XML file is in the Windows folder.
It works inconjuction with the HomeScreen.dll, with some icons stored in contactsico.dll.
I've added these files and the prefixed t files from the Windows folder of my Universal, I hope they're useful.
Have you tried the file ?
Hmm.. performing back up now.. and going to try it out. Hope it is easy to uninstall.
[UPDATE]
Ok, tested out the plugin. It is a nice plugin. Make your phone more like a phone than a PDA. It gives you one hand operation by using the direction buttons, making calls and stuff. However, since it will disable all other plugins, I won't recommend others whom uses Today calendar plugins such as Pocket Breeze, TodayAgenda, TodayPlus, etc.. to use this orange plugin. Uninstall is easy.
Screen shot of it here http://www.coolsmartphone.com/article569.html
under the section `INSIDE`. It is the same for smart phone and pda phone. You will see all the options available. And the 'Today' option actually sends you to the (built in) Calendar day view.
Hi, have you used the cab file and zip file above ?
Ok, I tried the plugin posted here by AdmiralAK, on my Universal.
First thing I noticed was it actually ran on the O2 ROM.
Second thing was how small the icons are compared to the plguin built into the Orange Universal ROM.
But I guess that makes sence as the screens are very different sizes. More importantly must of the plugin works fine.
I'm sure a little editing would probably have it all working.
What I did notice is its totally different to the Universal plugin, none of the files i've edited to get the universal version working the way I want it to, exist in this version. Hence the Full_one.xml, t* and .bmh files are not in the Windows folder.
I've gone back to the Orange ROM, as I have it running the way I want and the bigger icons are easier to use on the Universal. But i'll be keeping this version as I may get a TyTn next year.
Cool program. But too bad, limited customizable.
Hi people,
Great software, I was looking to try this on my MDA Vario. Too bad of it's limitations. Good to try out and see how it works.
Though I was thinking of visually designing a kind of similar application and find some great developers on this site to help me create it. Of course if anyone is interested in this kind of functionality.
Anyone already interested? let me know. i hope to have some draft ideas on here in the form of screenshots as soon as possible. but now it's diner time see ya.
Cheers,
Shah.
I have tried editing the 'full_one.xml' file, then soft reset....however it hasn't changed anything...
did i miss something?
Hi guy,
I've tried to resize the icon of plug-in and it's ok in portrait but no in landscape, I think it's a registry problem for landscape.
I'd like to use the plug-in on no orange rom.
I'll find the way to get more than 4 custom option but i get without icon.
The file full_one.xml is linked with other file of the orange rom so I think that's one problem.
@Shah2,
I'd be interested in a plugin like this, that has a few more options [see below] and works on all ROM's.
I have no programing skills or abilities, but i'd help out where I can. :wink:
@minty1978,
The Full_one.xml file only lets you edit the Labels and the URL's in the plugin.
@filippodisvevia,
I'd like to use the plug-in on a none Orange ROM too.
Then I wouldn't have to kepp hiding my Universal from the IT guys at work. :lol:
The 3 things I'd like to change on the plugin are:
1. Have more than 5 URL's in the Web section.
2. Have more than 4 programs in the Launch section.
3. Have all seven sections appear on the screen [at least in portrate mode][/i]
I'm a littlebit busy but I want resolve this match.
Stay tuned
Concept Orange Homescreen Pimped Beta 0.1
Hi people,
I told ya that I was interested in making the Orange Homescreen even better than it is at the moment.
THESE ARE PURELY PHOTOSHOP MOCKUPS!
Image number 1 shows the use of today plugin as we know them. It's just to give an example. All the other screens speak for themselves.
If anyone has his/her own ideas please share them in this thread. I would also like to draw the attention of developers who might be interested in creating this for real, and not just some photoshop images, please let me know.
Cheers,
Shah
Hi Shah,
Thats way more complex, than I was looking for. :shock:
But, If this was to be built as a new plugin, hopefully it could be scalable, using a .ini or .xml file. Like the real Orange plugin does. 8)
The only I don't really like, is the other plugins showing as in pic.1.
I have other plugins switched on while i'm at work, and the Orange one at night. I find the empty desktop more relaxing. :wink:
ZaForD said:
Hi Shah,
Thats way more complex, than I was looking for. :shock:
But, If this was to be built as a new plugin, hopefully it could be scalable, using a .ini or .xml file. Like the real Orange plugin does. 8)
The only I don't really like, is the other plugins showing as in pic.1.
I have other plugins switched on while i'm at work, and the Orange one at night. I find the empty desktop more relaxing. :wink:
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi ZaForD
The complexity is actually quite limited. Because if you use the plugin most of the options are the same. Most of the items are just additions to the rest of the plugin.
And for the pic 1. I can image it's not that nice. But with input we can work on making it more general so that people will like it.
Personally I would like to have the standaard Today screen plugins visible because they are still usefull.
It's also a possibility that all the items are configerable to meet users needs. For example standaard options like the original homescreen for users that want the basic functionalities, and advanced options for users who want more options. so that every page is user configerable.
Anything is possible in Photoshop haha. but seriously if there are any developers who are interested please leave a note.
Cheers,
Shah
I stopped using the plugin - no matter how much I liked it - because it did not show me tasks tat need to be done.
I would be interested in something more complex than it is now (at least show me my tasks) but maybe not as complex as the mockups. scalability would be cool
What do you think he is trying to do?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/viewtopic.php?t=63214&highlight=
Any updates on this?
I have a Prophet and tested the plugin, however there are some things that I can't edit (cause I don't have an Orange ROM)...
I know that 4.1 is only just out & I think it's brilliant. I'm spending every evening checking new posts and playing with my phone like never before. So, before the 4.1 thread becomes the next thread with 1200 posts, I thought I'd start a new thread for ideas for 4.2
Tom - before I found the magic that is B&B I was using Wisbar Advance desktop and an application called innesoft address book which had a great feature that when someone called you, their photo was displayed full screen with their name (see thumbnails) rather than just the standard windows window.
Any chance you could devlelop something similar for 4.2 !!!
Cheers
pna said:
I know that 4.1 is only just out & I think it's brilliant. I'm spending every evening checking new posts and playing with my phone like never before. So, before the 4.1 thread becomes the next thread with 1200 posts, I thought I'd start a new thread for ideas for 4.2
Tom - before I found the magic that is B&B I was using Wisbar Advance desktop and an application called innesoft address book which had a great feature that when someone called you, their photo was displayed full screen with their name (see thumbnails) rather than just the standard windows window.
Any chance you could devlelop something similar for 4.2 !!!
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here is something that may hold you over, I am still trying to figure out how to use the caller id without the actual slide to unlock, bit here is something to tide you over, jsut a thought
Have a pretty much full screen keyboard for texting in landscape mode? The text appears at the top?
Is there a way we can assign a button to lock the phone rather than go thruogh the menu?
Cheers
Anybody knows if it is legal to include trial versions of apps in cooked rom?
Was thinking rom with included sktools, english dictionary of some kind, IM+, resco explorer, spb gprs monitor included on rom would save time and space. Apps included would be trial versions and ppl haveing bought them could just enter activation keys/serials, others could buy app if thy liked it.
kakainis said:
Anybody knows if it is legal to include trial versions of apps in cooked rom?
Was thinking rom with included sktools, english dictionary of some kind, IM+, resco explorer, spb gprs monitor included on rom would save time and space. Apps included would be trial versions and ppl haveing bought them could just enter activation keys/serials, others could buy app if thy liked it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This would be a waste of time and energy for most, these Roms are made to be efficient, the least amount of space used so that you as an individual can place your desired programs, once a rom is built there is no removing/uninstalling of any apps, hence the reason to not put trial versions into a rom, I use several of the above mentioned, but to "Bloat" a rom with them would be ineffecient. Best thing to do is install on your sd card, keep all your initial install cabs in one folder and use that as your rebuild folder. Cheers.
Juice05 said:
Have a pretty much full screen keyboard for texting in landscape mode? The text appears at the top?
Is there a way we can assign a button to lock the phone rather than go thruogh the menu?
Cheers
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This may assist you in this matter, Cheers.
...
Is it not worth remembering that everyone has a different list of killer apps they MUST have on their device?
If Tom & Meschle etc added every app - the rom would only just fit on a 40gb hard disk!!!
To my mind - the idea is that the cooked roms are a basis onto which you install your own apps to make your own device work?
Constanlty asking for new apps to be added to a rom just complicates the issue. Or am I wrong?
something so i can remotly use my desktop via PPC
then im complete
automated network setup like in the O2 WM6 Premium 1.0 WWE rom
Extended timers & alarms application
I'd like to avoid installing SpbTime on each version
Great job!
OK, i agree, rom should be as slim as possible, but why the hell there is cube, psshutXP, PHM regedit/traylaunch, and office mobile on it then?
Could make an ultra lite wersion. (=
P.S. Dont get me wrong, i think 4.1 is great and it is a lot faster than O2. Just throwing around ideas about how to make it better.
with my original post, I was not really asking for a copy of the app, just would like a much bigger photo to pop up with caller id and liked the look of the inesoft one.
Tom - what do you think?
Just trying to make the ROM easier to use, more efficient.
B&B 4.1 is far better than original ROM from this point of view
TouchFlo for example helps to have everything we need with a single finger move..
Phone app is a lot more usable also.
Perhaps also the possibility to customize HTC Home by default, with more options (number of apps in the launcher, ..)
i don't think that is constructive to add as much apps, i can imagine, when it's released, everbody is shouting "this is not good" and "why did you use this app and not the other one"...and so one. I like it clear, not too much apps...but that's my opinion.
If i want it with all apps included then i start (to learn ) cooking my own ROM... IMHO i am very satisfied with the work that Tom is doing for us all. And 4.1 is just released. Enjoy it and let Tom make a break. He is hard working all the time!
Plugins for new version
Alarms extension (SpbTime style)
USB PenDrive emulator (WMstorage style)
Phone call recording (Audio Recorder style)
Thanks for B&B! Great job!
i have a great idea
Why dont we support Tom and all off his hard work and all the other wizards here, and stop complaining or asking for more.
like a bunch of kids in a sweet shop.
Improving File access
What I would like to see is the File Dialog Changer, I don't know who has heard of it but it is very good! Usually when you want to save files or open them in any application you get access to you My Documents folder. Only some smart apps like TCPMP and others have the option to access your entire pda.
File Dialog Changer changes the way you access your files in opening and saving them for every application, it's just 50 KB and you can activate / deactivate it in System Settings.
bbracer16valver said:
something so i can remotly use my desktop via PPC
then im complete
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And about your wish I can only say that there is already Remote Desktop for WM6, I think I've downloaded it in the Wizard forum. Or use PocketVNC, that is the pda version for VNC. I am successfully using that with TightVNC on my computer. I just have to be in range of my WLAN and can turn on my computer by sending a wake on lan signal (not with vnc) and then access my computer through pocketvnc or access the files on my computer.
neilhhardy said:
Why dont we support Tom and all off his hard work and all the other wizards here, and stop complaining or asking for more.
like a bunch of kids in a sweet shop.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thread is: Ideas for B&B version 4.2, nothing to do with sweet shop
brainstorming said:
Thread is: Ideas for B&B version 4.2, nothing to do with sweet shop
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think he had a point though. In the whole thread there is not one message of Tom Codon himself. Did you ask what he thinks? Maybe he has a few ideas of his own? After all, it will be his ROM...
Who says it will be B&B v4.2? Why not 4.3 or 5.0? If there will be another version let him take care of the numbers.
I'm not at all technical, and therfore nervous about completely changing the ROM on my HD. I'm also paranoid about touching the registery, because I don't know what I'm doing.
There are 2 things i'd like to do:
1) modify the tabs at the bottom of the screen to get rid of all the garbage that my carrier put there, and customise it to what i want.
2) have the ability to change the functionality of the soft keys below the screen
Is there a utility or program that does either or both of these things.
Many thanks
Lost too!
Hi
im new here too! still wondering n lost about the terms and acronyms used here.
Whats TF3D? wats Manila? how do i normalise back a certain add-ons which i dun like? do i need a certain additional program to install certain add-ons? gosh, im so lost!
juz bought the phone but nothing has been done yet..
any BASIC/MUST-HAVE applications or add-ons as a start as a base?
Many thanks!
You can always flash a new ROM (thats the core.. the OS and basic apps.. and on your phone all that stuff you operator added) theres a wiki how to do it. Flashing a rom is similar to flashing the bios on your PC. Most things are editable. You can get "Cooked" ROMs those are Cores that people have modified, added to, customized and tweaked.
manila is the the tab interface you see on touch phones there's Manila 2d and newer TF3D - (TouchFlo 3d)
There's tons of freeware and opensource available and what is "must" have is largely opinion and what you do with your phone. it's good to browse here for apps and in Blackstone/ROMs for ROMs.
things to be aware of your phone is WVGA.. big screen not all apps will fill it if they are qvga or vga. also you have almost no buttons so everything is touch... this can be a problem with some apps as they expect/require buttons. But newer apps are improving to support purely touch base control.
hope this helps you can always msg me if u have questions.
sophian84 said:
Hi
im new here too! still wondering n lost about the terms and acronyms used here.
Whats TF3D? wats Manila? how do i normalise back a certain add-ons which i dun like? do i need a certain additional program to install certain add-ons? gosh, im so lost!
juz bought the phone but nothing has been done yet..
any BASIC/MUST-HAVE applications or add-ons as a start as a base?
Many thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Most addons come as .cab files you copy them to your phone and execute then.. run them and theyll install.. theyll ask phone memory or card storage. i put most things on the card and only install key things for the phone to run in its memory. to uninstall any cab or some programs that are exe and you run from desktop they install to phone. you can uninstall them either from activesync remove programs, or from your phone settings/system/ remove program and they uninstall.
bfi2906 said:
I'm not at all technical, and therfore nervous about completely changing the ROM on my HD. I'm also paranoid about touching the registery, because I don't know what I'm doing.
There are 2 things i'd like to do:
1) modify the tabs at the bottom of the screen to get rid of all the garbage that my carrier put there, and customise it to what i want.
2) have the ability to change the functionality of the soft keys below the screen
Is there a utility or program that does either or both of these things.
Many thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please don't try to change the ROM now, I would recommend you play first with the HD and learn it.
Answers:
1. There are many options - one is:
Stevedpl7 TF3D Tab Icon Theme 5 http://forum.xda-developers.com/show...ight=stevedpl7
2. You can program the soft keys in many of the config tools - one is:
JS Advanced Configuration Tool 3.3 http://www.touchxperience.com/en/adv...tion-tool.html
Finally, while the application list is always personal, I suggest reviewing mine at:
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?p=3117017&highlight=secondtoday#post3117017
Good luck !
Thank you sooo much guys - that's about the level of tech-ness I can cope with right now. I think I'll shy away from loading a new ROM for a while, as suggested. I just sounds like it'd too risky for a dunce like me, and the consequences appear to be potentially quite dire.
I have found and installed HDTweaks, and that allowed me to configure the softkeys. Now all I have to do is find a way to change / reallocate / rearrange the tabs.
Thanks again for your "sympathy" and help.
Cheers.
I've been playing around with the Incite a good bit and discovered that M3D works a lot better on it than it did on the Tilt, but there is no WQVGA version of it, so that led me to search around a bit. After a bit of searching, I discovered that there is a version of M2D for the Omnia, and guess what! It works on the Incite too! And this is how to do it.
1. Install the M2D all in one cab file. (make sure you have 20mb in the phone storage and install directly to the phone, NOT the storage card or it will not work)
2. Install the Opera browser cab for the internet tab (works from the storage card)
3. Install the SECcontact cab (this is to view contacts in the contact list)
The only tab that doesn't work is the comm tab. Other than that, the Incite renders the program flawlessly. (no probs with standby, powering off, etc.) Enjoy!
Thanks to:
SztupY for Manila
NFSFAN for Opera
And black-DraGon for SECcontact
Download all the files here!
http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=56abdfd4acbdc933d1014a7a667fa2b4e04e75f6e8ebb871http://www.mediafire.com/?sharekey=56abdfd4acbdc933d1014a7a667fa2b4e04e75f6e8ebb871
Here is a fix for the Comm tab.You will also need the Comm Manager if you don't already have it.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=430468
Thank you very much, well, now we have a fully functional M2D! Another thing is that if you want to use one of the comm managers from that thread, it works just as well.
hi guys, i also have M2D on my incite and works fairly well. im also using the omnia m2d cab. i tried M3D for tilt but didnt work well.
Thats because the the M3D cab is QVGA, the Incite is WQVGA. If someone could port M3D to WQVGA our devices would run it better than the tilt, and not have the same issues.
So now I'm gonna work on some themes for M2D, will be posted them soon!
backspacepc
So that you're not doing unnecessary, modaco.com has a thread with lots of themes modified for the Omnia. Now get back to work on the ROM's!!
dustinmcd said:
backspacepc
So that you're not doing unnecessary, modaco.com has a thread with lots of themes modified for the Omnia. Now get back to work on the ROM's!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well, not everyone here is a member there, so I'll pick the best there, give credit, and post them here. thank you, and I already knew about them.
Is anyone else having the issue where scrolling side-wise through the tabs lags a bit?
It looks like it tries to load whatever tab my finger is over while scrolling ... and it slows down the phone considerably.
Help Please
I have installed the manila 2D and now I am not able to find the FM radio application. I listen to the radio a lot. can some one help me where i can find the FM radio applicaiton.
Thanks in advance.
I'm a noob at this whole thing. Can someone point me in to a step by step tutorial for installing this? (I'm sure i can figure it out if thier isn't one)
And once installed can you switch back to the original UI , and if so, how?
Thanks!
Just read the first post, and install in that order. To disable: start/settings/today/items and uncheck TouchFLO
ok, i have everything working. Thanks!
I have another question though. I installed M2DC in order to install some skins for M2D. The only ones i could find were Omnia skins. When i install them the scroll bar (the one with home, people, ect.) is not at the bottom resulting in about 3/8" of unused screen. Does anyone know how to fix this?
Those skins are WVGA and your phone is WQVGA, which is why it doesn't display properly. In order to fix it, open M2C and restore original layout and it should fix it.
ATT's Incite Windows Mobile 6.5?
Just wondering if anyone has heard if ATT is going to offer this upgrade?
jayray49 said:
Just wondering if anyone has heard if ATT is going to offer this upgrade?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
spocky is working on one now here is the kitchen
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=477104&page=99
WOW that was fast Imty_45
I sure hope this one is as good as the WM 6.5 I installed on my Hermes
Thanks everyone for all of your help
Jay
Magnificent !!!
Worked like a charm.... Stupendous, backspacepc!!
Just some minor questions:
1. How does one change the settings ? Or is this just a skin...
2. How do you move between items on the main screen (bottom)...right now I have to choose each one manually like weather, music etc....Is it possible to scroll with gesture?
Thanks !
LG Incite ROM Flash How to
Hey guys, reading through this, and seems like good stuff, but...after flashing my HTC with unlocking and all that, my question is, how do I initiate this program? Do I have to unlock the Incite first?
Cab files on Incite
I've tried to drop this on my phone. Sorry guys, I've been out of the archive for a long time. Trying to update to the M2D. What is a CAB file and how do i create one for dropping this program onto? THe original version of this phone is way to slow...looking to update..pls help
Hi, as the title suggests. I'm overwhelmed with all the choices and would like to know where to search/start if I would want to fully customize my Touch HD, I've downloaded the manilla editor so far, and i see a few pages full of icons, themes, clocks etc. new manilla/old manilla, which I'm actually unsure about. I'm currently using the latest official HTC EU Blackstone rom, and am not sure weather it is worthwile upgrading it to something better, any suggestions ?, stabilty is what would be the deciding factor, or do I just just customize the existing 6.1 operating system with pimped out clocks /menus and themes ?, I'd like to be able to open calender and other WM menus without it looking like I'm stepping back in time as far as page layout and presentation, do I need a custom rom for this or is this just done with my existing rom, with a cab file ?. Oh, and is there any chance of me bricking the phone with messing around with these themes or is that just with reflashing the rom ?. I realise that some of these questions may seem obvious though, I'm a total noob at this, not stupid just a first timer. Any help would be much appreciated !!, Thanks in advance !!, Nick.
first, let me say welcome to the forms. like you, we were once in your shoes. my response is probably not what you want to hear, but i will give my opinion/suggestion anyway (thanks for reading).
my suggestion is to educate yourself on the common terms used in the forums (e.g., Manila, CFC, ROM, bootloader), browse/read the links in my signature, read the threads that will help you achieve your goals, read the stickies, ROM threads, etc. the info is there and it will take a while to absorb and understand. it's a bit unrealistic to think that we'll guide you through an entire process via posts to your help request thread. if you're willing to do the homework it will pay benefits (e.g., you'll be able to pimp/customize your device to your desire)!
since you have to start somewhere, pick a feature you want to learn/customize, read the stickies, understand the methods and tools (the first post of each tool thread contains reasonably good instructions), try it, once you've successfully completed the task move to the next subject (e.g., create manila backgrounds & icons and then move to flashing your device). if you run into problems ask for help in an appropriate thread/sticky and you'll likely get a faster response/answer.
in my opinion (and i'm not implying this is your perspective) to do the things you want to do can be overwhelming if you want to do it right now and quick. this my friend is a sure way to get yourself in trouble. if you're patient, you'll get there. members will help where they can.
you should also know that the moderators are trying to reign in the "help me/what's the best ROM/what's the best theme/how do i flash my device" threads that occur on a daily basis. so don't be disappointed if your thread is closed.
good luck and i hope you have fun along the way!
naa77 said:
Hi, as the title suggests. I'm overwhelmed with all the choices and would like to know where to search/start if I would want to fully customize my Touch HD, I've downloaded the manilla editor so far, and i see a few pages full of icons, themes, clocks etc. new manilla/old manilla, which I'm actually unsure about. I'm currently using the latest official HTC EU Blackstone rom, and am not sure weather it is worthwile upgrading it to something better, any suggestions ?, stabilty is what would be the deciding factor, or do I just just customize the existing 6.1 operating system with pimped out clocks /menus and themes ?, I'd like to be able to open calender and other WM menus without it looking like I'm stepping back in time as far as page layout and presentation, do I need a custom rom for this or is this just done with my existing rom, with a cab file ?. Oh, and is there any chance of me bricking the phone with messing around with these themes or is that just with reflashing the rom ?. I realise that some of these questions may seem obvious though, I'm a total noob at this, not stupid just a first timer. Any help would be much appreciated !!, Thanks in advance !!, Nick.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The first limiting/deciding factor on what and how much you can "pimp" your phone, is the rom you are using. You need to check which version you have (if stock it should be wm6.1 and then you also need to know what manila version you have.) To get your manila version, go to the Settings Tab in your manila and at the bottom under About it should show you (again on stock it may only be 1.xx)
You may want to start out with a few simple tweaks, such as adding taskbars and slider icons and a few wallpapers and clocks (most of which you can do via cabs available (these are then uninstallable). There are also some complete themes you can apply (even to stock) Dusk being one of them.
Taking a different slant, Id' probably spend a week flashing lots of different ROMs, to experience what's possible visually/program-wise. Try some 6.1s, some 6.5s, some Manilla 2.1s/2.5s/2.6(soon!) to see which types you favour, and many of the ROMs come with their own backgrounds/taskbars etc. etc.
You might find one that, with a little tweaking, is exactly what you want, or at least you might get some ideas for your own creation.
Good luck!
Hey Thanks !! , just needed a lil steering in the right direction. Will check out the links and have a go, (was just unsure about weather to go down the flash rom path first or change theme or touch flo first). I realised that there was a chance moderators could od deleted post but took the chance