Hi Saltglass.
Sorry for editing.
can't get image/similar of Control Panel in XP at the minute, hope this will do.
You can do the same in 7, just that one can't get the CP icon to open up at the top of the desktop window[a CP toolbar window] as it does in XP.
In XP[or 7], place cursor in [unlocked] taskbar...rt clk and choose> Toolbars > New Toolbar > ''Computer'' > Select Folder.
The Computer component list appears on the right side of the taskbar, expand/stretch this toolbar and the Control Panel icon is in there with the others.
Grab the CP icon and whooosh it up to the very top of the desktop and let go, the entire listing for the Control Panel will appear.
'Under' the Control Panel word or in a free space/area, rt click and you have choices[autohide-clear text and always on top amoung others].
Ur good to go...
I have tried to do this in RTM versions of Vista[was lucky once] but it just doesn't happen in 7 either
...
Thanks,
keeto