How to Adjust Refresh Rate on an HDTV

Adjust the refresh rate of your HDTV with the remote control.

The refresh rate of an HDTV is the number of times per second the screen renews its information. Not all HDTV models allow refresh rate adjustments, but LCD HDTVs are more likely to provide adjustments. Depending on the model, choices may include 60 Hz, 120 Hz or 240 Hz. Hz is hertz, or cycles per second. The difference in refresh rates don't appear the same to all eyes, so adjustment may be a personal decision in many situations. Faster motion of sporting events or video games may look best at high refresh rates, but some movie special effects may get distorted.

Things You'll Need

• remote control for your HDTV

Instructions

1. Check the remote control of your HDTV for batteries. Turn on the HDTV.

2. Press the "Menu" button. A drop-down list should appear on the screen.

3. 

   A higher refresh rate may produce clearer video games.

   Use the up and down arrows on the remote control to highlight a "Tools" menu. The actual label may vary, but many HDTVs use a symbol such as a small tool box, a wrench or a gear. When the selection is highlighted, press "OK." If you have selected the correct symbol, the drop-down list should include "Refresh Rate."

4. Use the up and down arrows to highlight "Refresh Rate." Click on "OK." The screen display should show the choices.

5. Highlight the refresh rate you want to use, and click "OK." Press the "Return" or "Menu" button until the information display disappears.

Tips & Warnings

• Problems that a refresh rate adjustment may solve include blurred colors at the edges of fast-moving pictures, "judder" or jerking on the edges of slow moving pictures or the appearance of unrealistic images on movie special effects.

References

• Tweakguides: Refresh Rates
• LDCTV Buying Guide: 60Hz vs. 120Hz vs. 240Hz vs. 480Hz - LCD Response Rate