CPU Meter

Keeping an eye on system resource usage can be a crucial step in testing, and developing different types of computer applications, or video games. This operation can easily be done through intuitive meters with real time updating status reports. For Yahoo! Widget Engine, lightweight gadgets like CPU Meter are suitable examples.

Since it’s dedicated to this particular engine, Yahoo! Widget Engine is a mandatory requirement on any computer it needs to run on. On the other hand, it can be stored, and distributed on a thumb drive along with an entire collection of gadgets, especially since it comes in a lightweight package.

Positioning on the desktop is done through the regular drag method, which makes it possible to place the gadget anywhere on the desktop. Standard gadget options can be used to set window level priority to either below, normal, or on top of every other window. It can be fixed into position to prevent accidental dragging, or to completely ignore mouse interaction to be able to use other elements on the desktop.

The meter itself is fitted with indicators at every ten percent of usage level, while the numerical indicator updates every second for more details. As the CPU is used, the meter fills up with a color gradient starting from green to indicate low usage, and up to critical levels emphasized in red.