i have several machines here that run xp home that the printer and or fax
icons do not show up in the control panel, However, all the printers and
their drivers are listed in the registry. I am still able to use each printer
but i cant change any properties because i cant see them. it limits me using
a laser printer.

Sounds as if your Print Spooler has stopped.

http://www.coribright.com/windows/Article%20One.htm
--
Cari (MS-MVP)
Printing & Imaging

In Loving Memory of our dear friend Alex Nichol MVP

"SendTry" <(E-Mail Removed)> wrote in message
news:B5AB0DB7-F298-4328-BE4E-(E-Mail Removed)...
>i have several machines here that run xp home that the printer and or fax
> icons do not show up in the control panel, However, all the printers and
> their drivers are listed in the registry. I am still able to use each
> printer
> but i cant change any properties because i cant see them. it limits me
> using
> a laser printer.
>