How to Force a Resolution in a Registry

The Windows operating system comes with specific, pre-installed resolution settings. Users who wish to create custom resolutions, often when using multiple monitors, are required to change the Windows registry. The registry is a repository for system settings -- ranging from hardware communications to visual settings. Changing the registry is performed through the Windows registry editing utility that comes standard with all versions of the Windows operating system.

Instructions

1. Type "regedit" into the Start menu run/search box. The registry editor dialog box appears.

2. Open the "Mon12345678" folder by following the navigation tree in the left frame through the following path:

   HKEY_CURRENT_CONFIG/System/CurrentControlSet/Control/VIDEO.

3. Double-click the "DefaultSettings.XResolution" heading, and select the "Decimal" radio button in the dialog box.

4. Type the horizontal resolution of your choice in the "Value data:" text box.

5. Double-click the "DefaultSettings.YResolution" heading and select the "Decimal" radio button in the dialog box.

6. Repeat the process in Step 4 to change the vertical resolution.

7. Close the registry editor.

8. Reboot the computer for the settings to take effect.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are unsure of your ability to edit registry values, it is important that you back up the registry prior to any alterations.

References

• Windows 7 Themes: How to Change Screen Resolution in Windows 7 (via Shortcut or Registry); S. Oliver; 2010