Discus 4.x uses tables extensively throughout the user interface, including in the organization of the search screen, user self-registration form, moderator contact form, and profile form. The coloring for these tables is drawn from the selection of "Alternating Colors" as defined by the board administrator in the Appearance Manager interface.

Those upgrading from version 3.1 to 4.x, who never used alternating colors in version 3.1 and who are using the classic, updated classic, or tables1 skin, may notice that the backgrounds of the aforementioned interfaces will be black (or, sometimes, a different strange color depending on the browser being used). Since black is a common text color choice as well, this will make the interfaces unreadable. Those experiencing this situation should set up alternating colors as follows:

1. Log in to the board's administration program as the board administrator (typically username "admin"). Go to the Appearance Manager interface and click the "Colors" tab.

2. In the "Alternating Colors" section, define some alternating colors. Here is a screen shot of the alternating colors defined by default by the tables2 and tables3 skin, for new version 4.0 boards and boards that choose to apply that skin:

   

   DiscusWare recommends that you follow these examples first. If the need presents itself, you can return later to change some or all of your definitions.

3. If you are using a skin relying on alternating colors in the user interface (e.g., tables1, tables2, tables3, earthtones) you should regenerate your board through Appearance Manager - Regeneration. Regenerating your board is safe, yet is potentially time-consuming if you have a large board.

4. Return to the user interface of your board and navigate to the utility screen that was previously not displayed correctly. You should see that the background of that screen is now a series of alternating gray shades, and the text should be readable.