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Most of the time when I'm working, I have 4 windows open (editor, browser, mail client, terminal), and I use the multiple virtual desktops feature to put one on each window. So instead of alt-tabbing, I move to a different desktop.

The issue is that when I have them arranged on the desktops correctly and then disconnect my external monitor, they're all moved to the same desktop. When I plug the external monitor back in, then some of them are moved to the external, whereas some are still on the laptop display. Either way, it makes being mobile a very jarring experience.

Is there some way to "fix" or configure this behaviour?

Amith KK
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nickf
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    This question should instead be filed as a bug report, and [as such](http://meta.askubuntu.com/questions/1317/what-to-do-with-questions-that-describe-known-bugs/) is off-topic, thanks! [Instructions on filing a bug report are here](http://askubuntu.com/questions/5121/how-do-i-report-a-bug). – Thomas Ward Mar 25 '13 at 23:15
  • I'm still having the exact same problem on 12.10, and the bug ticket on launchpas doesn't seem to be in progress. Has anyone found a solution to stop this? Of course I can always get my windows back manually after pluging/unpluging the monitor, but it's pretty boring when you plug your laptop twice a day. – Michael-A-D Mar 25 '13 at 23:13

2 Answers2

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This has been confirmed as a bug in Compiz and filed here: https://bugs.launchpad.net/compiz/+bug/763148

I agree it is very tedious. If you have any extra info to add, or to mark the bug as affecting you, use the link above.

justyn
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If you can Alt+Tab to the window you want to select, you should be able to move it even if you can't see it. Try typing Super+Ctrl+← or ↑, or →. That moves the window around.

Another thing to try is to alt-tab to the window you want, then press CTRL+ALT+Shift and an arrow. It should move the windows to the desktop you are on. But I think the first solution is more likely.

Zanna
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Frantumn
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  • Yeah, that's what I've been using to get them in the right place, but every time I (dis)connect the external monitor, it screws up all the placement. Very frustrating. – nickf May 15 '12 at 10:24
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    This happens in some Windows and Mac applications too. I'm not sure what component would be to blame. Video Driver, OS, The program, Gnome/Unity... But it's not just an Ubuntu thing, so it must be a fair bit tricky to come up with a consistent solution. – Frantumn May 15 '12 at 12:47
  • I don't think the video driver would be in charge of window placement... it's clearly something the OS *should* be in control of. – nickf May 15 '12 at 21:49