How to Correct Monitor Resolution on PCs
The monitor is your window on the virtual world. Make sure you've got the best view possible in Windows. Your eyes will thank you.
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Instructions
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Go to Start, Settings, then Control Panel.
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In the Control Panel window, double-click on the Display icon.
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Click on the Settings tab.
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In the Desktop or Screen Area, adjust the slider control higher or lower with your mouse to reach the setting you want. Then click on Apply.
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The Display Properties dialog box will appear and explain that your monitor might flicker. Some combinations of video cards and Windows versions will require that the computer reboot and will ask if you wish to do so. In either case, click on OK to proceed.
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If you're happy with the new settings, click on Yes to keep them. If not, click on No and your old settings will return, or click on Cancel to readjust the settings.
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Tips & Warnings
Higher resolutions are usually easier on the eyes because images appear sharper and more finely detailed.
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Comments
View all 16 Comments-
Nov 22, 2005
On an LCD Monitor, you should only ever set the resolution to the same resolution that is native to the monitor. Read the specs that came with your monitor and set that resolution. Any other resolution will result in a drastically degenerated picture quality. At the least you should try that resolution first and compare it with any other resolution, you will find it much sharper and clearer. -
Nov 22, 2005
While you're adjusting your resolution, check your refresh rate. By default, it is set at 60Hz, which can cause an annoying flicker, especially under fluorescent lights. Click the "Advanced" button on the Settings tab, then select the "Monitor" tab. Bump up the screen refresh rate a notch until the flicker disappears. Setting it higher than necessary can allegedly shorten the life of your monitor. Do not uncheck the "Hide modes that this monitor cannot display" box. Setting an incorrect refresh rate can destroy your monitor, especially on older models.
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Nov 22, 2005
Along with resolution, screen refresh rate is important. A refresh rate of at least 75 hertz is best on the eyes. At 60 or lower, the monitor may appear to be flickering rapidly, and you will probably notice more of a strain on your eyes.
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Nov 22, 2005
You want to set your resolution to the exact resolution of your LCD panel. That way each pixel is addressed exactly the way your OS intends. If you have a very nice (high resolution with fine granularity) screen and your items appear too small, then you can set your Icon size to large (display properties, appearance, advanced) and windows fonts to large (display properties, appearance). You can change these setting in Linux as well; but if you run Linux you should know where to look. Macs are set up right to begin with. Don't muck around with them.
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Nov 22, 2005
You can also right click on your desktop and click "Properties" to access the display properties.
