display adapter settings won't take effect

I have a system that when I try to change the display settings (screen area
size) and click ok or enter It closes the window and tells me I hav to
restart the computer for the settings to take effect. (even though I have
the apply settings without restarting the computer checked)
When I restart the computer the settings have not taken effect.
Does anyone have any ideas?
Thanks in advance
Marc
marc@marc3rd.com