How to See a Computer Screen Outside

Most laptop computers have built-in glare reduction filters that automatically adjust their display for outdoor use, much the way photochromic eyeglass lenses do. However, there are several things you can do to make it easier to see the screen when outdoors.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Move into a shady area, if possible.
2. Position the computer so that the sun is at your back or create artificial shade by placing an object between the screen and the sun if you can't move into the shade. You can make a simple computer hood by taping several sheets of cardboard together.
3. Adjust the brightness and the contrast for the display to compensate for outside conditions. Consult your computer manual or online help for instructions.
4. Replace your cursors with higher-contrast cursors, such as yellow or orange, if you have trouble seeing them. You also may wish to use larger cursors that you can see better.
5. Enlarge the program display if you have trouble seeing it. Look for a percentage display on the toolbar and make it greater than 100 percent.
6. Lower your screen resolution if you have trouble seeing the overall monitor display. For example, if your normal display is 1024 x 768 pixels, reduce it to 800 x 600.

Tips & Warnings

• At a minimum, in Windows you should replace the "Normal Select," "Working in Background," and "Busy" cursors. Replace the "Text Select" cursor if you do a lot of writing outdoors and replace the resizing cursors if you work with a number of windows on screen and regularly move or resize them.
• Take care of your eyes. Visit the "All About Vision" website for instructions on how to reduce computer eyestrain.

Who Can Help:

• Find Computer, Electrical and Telephone Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.
• Find Electrical Services Here. Compare Up to 4 Quotes, Free Service & No Obligation.