The [Appearance] dialog (Fig. UI-49) packs more potential customizations into one area than any other in Windows XP. Some truly stunning schemes may be created between the [Windows and Buttons:], [Color Scheme:], and [Fonts:] sections. So they are coupled with the [Effects...] and [Advanced] buttons on this dialog. Altogether, you are able to do some serious damage to usability and readability of the interface. But you don‘t have to go into a detailed description of each of the screens that is accessible in the [Appearance] dialog. In order to get you going on creating your layout a few notes with screens captures will serve.

There are only two options in [Windows and Buttons]. They are [Windows XP Style] and [Windows Classic] style. In case you download and install additional [Themes] they are going to be listed here as well. However, read the next warning regarding how they are being effected by the [Advanced] button.
The [Advanced] button (Fig. UI-50) can be accessed without regard to the [Windows and Buttons], [Color Scheme], and [Font Size] settings. In addition, you are eager to make modifications, but heed the warning. In case you select a windows and button setting other than Windows Classic, it is going to override the following settings, except in some older programs. To be sure that the changes you make are going to be visible, you have to select [Windows Classic Style] from the [Windows and Buttons] drop down.

The [Effects] button (Fig. UI-51) does not depend on other selections. And all effects are going to be available and functional in both XP Style and Classic Style. So here are two specific features that appear under [Effects].

1) The first mention is what XP terms [Transition Effects for Menus and Tooltips], better known as the [Scroll] or [Fade] effect. As there are users who find these effects delightful. However, when aiming to something you wish it to open quickly and without delay. So in this case you have to edit the registry to speed up these effects. Although, when you do they become a moot point. So, if you think they annoy, you may disable them.

2) The second mention refers to how the edges of screen fonts are smoothed. Windows XP involves the [ClearType] technology for font smoothing. Microsoft states, ClearType is intended for display on flat screen monitors. Consequently, it is ideal for portable computers and other flat screen devices. ClearType can appear slightly blurry on desktop computer monitors not having a flat screen. Altogether, they go on to add. Further, you must have a video card and monitor which support a color setting of at least 256 colors, whether you select Standard or ClearType from the list. You may achieve the best results with High color (24-bit) or Highest color (32-bit) support. The suggestion is to enable ClearType then give it a try not paying attention to the type of monitor you use.

Displaying Properties - The [Slide Show] Tab

There are five tabs on the [Display Properties] property sheet. However, sometimes the sixth tab may appear from called [Slide Show]. It's part of the Power Toys. If you want to change the desktop background on a specified interval without user intervention the [Slide Show] (Fig. UI-52) option is of use. So click [Turn On Desktop Slide Show] and use the [Browse] button in order to navigate to the folder containing the images you wish to use for the slide show. Further, the [Frequency] section of the dialog box (Fig. UI-53) sets the interval for how often the images rotate. Finally, click [Apply] and [OK] to finish the setting.