I know what you mean about cataloging Mike.
I use Canon File Viewer Utility to view my Raws and if I want, to convert to JPEG for viewing on other programs. I find converting them to Jpeg and then viewing in windows picture and fax viewer very convenient for weeding out those images that aren't worth processing. I find it quicker than viewing the Raws. Also if I want to have a quick look at an image I can do it directly from Windows Explorer rather than view the Raw in Canon FVU.
As for other conversions, ImagesPlus for conversion to TIFF or FITS or you can open your raws directly into PS CS and convert to TIFF there.