default monitor settings

millsmum

right I do not know what I am doing!! so could anyone help me.
I want to change the default setting on my monitor. I am stuck on 600x800 and can't change the resolution as it the screen goes blank and is out of range!
when i go into my properties for the monitor the buttons are grey and I can't gain access to any info. what does this mean?

PierceUK

Sounds like the graphics driver is not installed so windows is doing its best at trying to guess the resolution.

Try getting the latest graphics card drivers for your PC (sometimes a windows update will sort this out for you)

If you need any more help just say

millsmum

yes please need help, how do i find the graphics driver?

PierceUK

Well first run a "custom" windows update. which is in "Start - > All Programs - > Windows Update"
the windows update is right at the top!
This will open internet explorer, select custom scan/update. then when it finishes scanning select "hardware" on the right hand side, if there are any updates install them.
After they have installed and restarted check to see if you can change the resolution.

If that fails then you need to manually download drivers for your graphics card. The main trouble with this option is finding out what graphics card you have! the two main graphics card creators are nvidia or ati. Although if you have a cheaper/low end laptop/desktop then you may have an on-board card (poss Intel G.....)
In which case you may have to contact the creator of the machine.

Try the windows update first (it sorted out my parents PC!) and its a great help if there is any other hardware that is having trouble.

millsmum

thanks, i have been and looked in my device manager and found that the multi media audio controller and the video controller have a problem is this my graphic card?

PierceUK

video controller is your graphics. audio is your sound.

If you double click on each one and then go to the driver tab you may be able to either update the driver or roll it back to when it worked.

But the easiest way to get drivers for hardware with problems is windows update.

millsmum

thanks I am running it as we speak, I have also repped you as you have been so helpful. I hope this works as I am fed up of having to scroll around on my screen

PierceUK

I can imagine! Thanks for the Rep.
Hopefully this will fix your video and audio problems!

millsmum

hi I've run the windows update and it hasn't helped I am still unable to find the drivers

any advice now?

albertross_2

if this has just started happening, try a system restore.

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/helpandsupport/learnmore/systemrestore.mspx

millsmum

no I think its always been this way!