Safe to turn off computer

[lastrider04]

I was wondering how, if possible can I gat my computer to turn off after I shut down as I need to press and hold the power button to turn off my computer.

Previously when I had a dual boot, Windows 98 would turn the PC off after shut down and Windows XP never. It hadn't bothered my as I was using 98. Now that I have Windows XP pro only it is annoying that I have to press and hold the power button for 5-7 secs to turn the power off.

Is it possible to make XP turn the PC off after it shuts down without it being stuck at "It is safe now to turn off your computer" screem?

 

[lastrider04]

Also another thing that has been bugging me. I have Windows XP Home, on my laptop and on the start menu > all programs, it expands accross the screen. Whereas on my desktop, Windows XP Pro, it does not expand and stays a list which has to be scrolled, up or down.

Is there a way to change this. I've had a look but cant seem to find anything to do with that.

Thanks in advance

 

[bcastner]

A1: My guess is BIOS upgraade is needed:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;810903

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;Q308029

A2: Right-click the Start button, Properties, Customize, Advanced, and under "Start Menu items:" is a checkbox for "Scroll programs" that determines the All Programs menu display option.

 

[lastrider04]

Thanks bcastner,

I'll get back to you on the shutdown problem.

 

[lastrider04]

Turns out all I had to do was go onto Power Options Properties in the Control Panel and enable Advanced Power Managment support in the APM tab.

Thanks Again.