1.3 Basic Features of Windows
1.3.5 Desktop settings
To adjust the desktop setting, access the Display Properties window as explained in the previous section. In the Settings tab, adjust the number of colors and the number of pixels that will be displayed. Pixels are the tiny dots that make up the light on the screen and determine the intensity of a screen image. Lower values, for example, tend to display cartoon-like color images, which are grainy with few details. Higher values display more realistic color images, approaching a "true color" of 16.7 million colors, and superb detail. Once the color or number of pixels has been selected, click Apply. The message in Figure will popup. Click on OK. The message in Figure will popup. Choose Yes to reconfigure the desktop. The screen display may go blank or the desktop screen may jump around. Do not worry. Windows is adjusting the desktop to match the new settings.

Note: When first installing a video card, Windows will default to the lowest settings of 640x480 resolution and possibly even eight colors. When a video card driver is installed with driver software that is supplied by the manufacturer, then more colors and resolutions can be displayed. More on this topic will be discussed under monitors and video cards (adapters) in the next chapter.