system tray size is fixed

The system tray (notification area) is permanently fixed to show a few icons. I have tried the taskbar property area and selected the setting that hides inactive icons but I never get the circle < icon to show that allows one to show or hide icons. I have set several icons to always show but I don't see them, only a few show and the section seems to be stuck. The programs related to the icons that don't show are running, I just can't access them to change their settings or anything. I hate to reinstall XP and reload all of the service patches just to get this to work. It happened after installing a program that put an icon in the task bar and it seemed to stick. I deleted that program but the fixed tray size remains. Suggestions appreciated.

 

What program? Somebody else may have already dealt with the thing and have a fix.

Meanwhile, a couple of things that may fix you right up (or may not but aren't harmful).

1. start~run~cmd followed by chkdsk x: /f (where 'x' is any drive on your system). Do the system drive for sure.

2. start~run~sfc /scannow and it's a good idea to have your XP install CD in the drive when it runs.

3. Get, install, update, and run the two spyware killer apps listed/linked in my signature.