From what you say it appears that no tabs are available to be selected.
Try going here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
Read directions at top of page.
Then go to go to line 285 -- right side and select "Restore all display
tabs."


"kkys" <kkys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:A03DD9DA-9EBD-4352-8B46-6EC0809AC164@microsoft.com...
> Thanks for replying Heirloom,
>
> I have already tried that, and it doesn't work either, it is bizarre! the
> only way I can change my desktop picture at the moment is by selecting a
> picture and right clicking and "setting as desktop". I can't change the
> background colours or change it to a theme, because I can't get to it! It
> is
> like the link has gone?
>
> Anyone else ?? TIA
>
> kkys
>
> "Heirloom" wrote:
>
>> Try right clicking a vacant area of the Desktop and select Properties.
>> Heirloom, old and works for me
>>
>>
>> "kkys" <kkys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
>> news:F496EB78-F2FB-488B-A17C-944D79470382@microsoft.com...
>> >I have always had a customised desktop display, usually of a personal
>> >picture
>> > from my files and a matching colour background. I have recently gone
>> > to
>> > change this and I can't seem to get to the display properties dialogue
>> > boxes.
>> > I click on Control Panel from the Start menu and then when I double
>> > click
>> > the Display icon as per usual in Control Panel, nothing
>> > happens...nothing.
>> > Have I inadvertently switched something off that prevents me from
>> > accessing
>> > this area? I am so not a tech head and I am so confused!
>> >
>> > HELP and TIA to any helpers
>> >
>>
>>
>>