[CentOS] CentOS 5.3 - changing display settings

From: Andrew <andy.allen at virgin.net>
> I've just installed CentOS 5.3 on my desktop and need to change the
> installed display setting from 1280x1024 to 1024x768 (more suitable for
> my monitor). When I try this on the Display Settings tab, I get the
> message:
> "Display settings changed
> You need to log out and restart the X server for the changes to take
> effect.
> Configuration was written to /etc/X11/xorg.conf, original configuration
> saved as /etc/X11/xorg.conf.backup."
> Trouble is, I don't know how to restart the X server apart from
> rebooting the computer, but that has no effect and the display settings
> remain unchanged! Any help appreciated,

Checked the /etc/X11/xorg.conf file...?
Maybe you could try to add:

  Section "Screen"
      ...
      SubSection "Display"
          Modes        "1024x768"
      EndSubSection
  EndSection

JD