Member Avatar for Y2A

I tried searching the forum but could'nt find anything on this topic.

I just got a new laptop, and the time is in 24 hour format. I cannot seem to find the option to change it to 12 hour.

Im using XP (home edition)

Thanks

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by Stavarachi

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nailed the simple fix in post #2 — the taskbar clock uses your user regional time format, so switching that format to a 12‑hour style makes the clock show AM/PM (as confirmed).

If the GUI method works, nothing else is needed. If it does not stick or the clock still shows 24‑hour time, check these common causes and remedies:

  • The per‑user time format is stored under the registry key HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\International (the sShortTime / sTimeFormat values are what the system reads). Back up the registry before editing; changing those values will force the user format to your desired display. (renenyffenegger.ch)
  • To make the change apply for brand‑new user profiles, the default profile hive at HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\International can be adjusted. For managed fleets use Group Policy or an MDM script rather than manual edits. (learn.microsoft.com)
  • Some corporate policies or OEM utilities can override user settings. If the device is domain‑joined, an administrator may have enforced a format via Group Policy (there is a policy that controls abbreviated vs. classic tray time/date). (learn.microsoft.com)
  • After changing registry/locale settings some apps (and Explorer) cache the old format. Either sign out/in or restart Explorer; system code that updates locale settings expects a WM_SETTINGCHANGE broadcast, so a logoff or restart ensures all processes pick up the new format. (learn.microsoft.com)

Caution: editing the registry affects only the signed‑in user unless you change the default hive; always export the key first and reboot if changes don’t show immediately. If the GUI approach worked for you (as it did for and ), that is the safest route.

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Member Avatar for UberAAZ

Here's how to fix that:

Switch to 'classic' view on Control Panel and open up Regional and Language options. Click Customize.

Then, under Time, change time format from HH:mm:ss to 'h:mm:ss tt'. Click OK, then again. Glance down at your notification bar, and you'll see the twelve hour time!

Member Avatar for Y2A

Thank you so much :)

Worked a charm

Member Avatar for iceberg66

Here's how to fix that:

Switch to 'classic' view on Control Panel and open up Regional and Language options. Click Customize.

Then, under Time, change time format from HH:mm:ss to 'h:mm:ss tt'. Click OK, then again. Glance down at your notification bar, and you'll see the twelve hour time!

Nice :)
Thanks dude :cool:

Edited by iceberg66 because: n/a
Member Avatar for Stavarachi

My problem was i what to change from 12 h format in 24 h format.buy with your help i did a lot:)

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