Greetings Llyod,

If you've set the option there is no magic registry fix that's going to make it work.
Unfortunately narrowing down on this problem is intently hard, because a lot of applications
(from OEM apps to certain screensavers) have been known to break this functionality.

However, what you might try as a workaround is install Messenger Plus
(http://www.msgplus.net) and use its option for doing this (which may work differently).  The
option after installing Plus! is in the main Messenger window, clicking the Plus! menu, then
Preferences, General Options, then Miscellaneous and make use of the "Automatically change
status after a period of inactivity" option.  Take note that if you do try this option, be
sure to read through the installer ,as if you do not wish to install the sponsor program (ie.
advertising) that goes along with Plus!, be sure *not* to chose that option during the
installation.
____________________________________________
Jonathan Kay
Microsoft MVP - Windows Messenger/MSN Messenger
Associate Expert
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/
Messenger Resources - http://messenger.jonathankay.com
All posts unless otherwise specified are (c) 2004 Jonathan Kay.
You *must* contact me for redistribution rights.

"Lloyd S. Smith" <nx4w@cox.net> wrote in message news:s7EOc.268$73.47@lakeread04...