Question : Problem: How do I change settings in my XP home system for a new 25" monitor?

I have two computers, both running XP Pro. I use a KVM switch, which works just fine, so that I have just one monitor, keyboard and mouse to use either computer.

One is a brand new Dell Inspiron 530 and the other is a 5-year-old Micro Spec computer from Micro Center, which also works just fine.

A couple of days ago, I bought a new 25" monitor, a Hannspree, and hooked it up using the existing connections.

After I turned it on and selected the Dell computer, it was compatible and I was able to choose from a wide variety of screen settings by using the usual Properties-->Settings-->DIsplay Properties procedure from the desktop. I set the size as 1280x720 and went to work.

I decided to use the same resolution with the Micro Spec computer but have run into what I think is a small problem. I went through Properties-->Settings-->DIsplay  Properties routine but when I arrive at the Settings screen to change the resolution, I am presented with a graphic of two monitors and the caption "Drag the monitor icons to match the physical arrangement of your monitors."

1. Do I need to be concerned with this or is this just another Microsoft quirk?

Next,  the default (#1) monitor option offers a number of choices of resolution but not as many as is offered on the Dell computer. I'd like to set the Micro Spec computer to 1280x720 as well, but the closest option is 1280x768 and there's enough of a noticeable difference to be annoying to me.

2. Is there an easy way to force the setting I want somehow, is this a driver issue, is this due to the video card's limitations, or something else, and what are the possible solutions?

Note: if I was an expert, obviously, I wouldn't be asking this. So when you reply, assume I am a novice. I've had some replies on a few other questions here on EE that have been so technical for very simple inquiries that the information was unusable.

Thanks for your time and help.

Answer : Problem: How do I change settings in my XP home system for a new 25" monitor?

According to the PC specs:
http://www.powerspec.com/systems/archives/system_archive.phtml?selection=6245

You have a Biostar M7viz motherboard. According to those specs:
http://www.biostar-usa.com/mbdetails.asp?model=m7viz

You should have a free AGP 8x slot, in addition to probably at least one PCI slot free.

You can get the manual for the board from this page:
http://www.biostar-usa.com/mbdownloads.asp?model=M7VIZ

AGP is an older technology, but you should be able to find something for it. Here's a list on newegg of AGP 8X cards:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=2010380048%201069609639&name=AGP%204X%2f8X

Note that you'll have to double check whatever card you choose to make sure it supports the resolution you want.