Reinstall the display drivers. That should fix it in most cases.
Standby Problems:
http://www.rickrogers.org/standby.htm
How To Verify Unsigned Device Drivers in Windows XP:
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=308514
--
Ramesh, Microsoft MVP
Windows XP Shell/User
Windows XP Troubleshooting
http://www.winhelponline.com
"Evagoras" <Evagoras.TakeThisOut@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:4CEDBE97-900E-471C-90AC-5C55C011B768@microsoft.com...
>I have a compaq laptop & win xp sp1. When i choose turn off from the start
> menu the stand by option is gray and i cannot press it, how can i fix
> this?