1024x768 is standard for 17" monitors... if you don't like it you're screwed because there isn't any resolutions between 1024x768 and 800x600 for a 4:3 monitor... just set it to 1024x768 and get used to it...
yah but 1440x980 isn't 4:3.... and 1280x960 is a higher res than what he already can't handle... of course if we are just naming ours reses mine is 1440x900... it's a 16:10 24" CRT...