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Adjusting the Screen Size (Resolution), Font or Icon Size, Color Depth, and Refresh Rate on a Dell™ Computer

Journal ID:   0932721368
Article ID:  134483
Date Published:  10/2/2008
Last Revised:  5/19/2009

Table of Contents
 Summary
 Discussion
 Adjusting the Screen Size (Resolution), Font or Icon Size, Color Depth, and Refresh Rate on a Dell Computer
 Additional Information
» Summary

Article Summary: This article provides instructions for adjusting common display settings in Microsoft® Windows® XP and Windows Vista® to correct display quality problems.

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» Discussion

Many display problems can be corrected by adjusting the following display settings:

  • Screen Size (Resolution)An improperly set screen resolution can result in all items on the screen appearing too large or small. The screen can also appear blocky, distorted, stretched, or fuzzy.

  • Color DepthIf the color depth is set too low, the screen can appear washed out or pixellated. It is recommended to set the color depth at the highest setting that your computer and display can support.

  • Refresh RateAn incorrectly set refresh rate can cause the screen to flicker, blink, or appear distorted or stretched.

  • Font and Icon SizeWhile pictures and most other objects are displayed correctly, fonts and icons may be either to large or small to see properly, or may appear blocky or distorted. The font and icon sizes can be adjusted separately from the screen resolution.


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» Adjusting the Screen Size (Resolution), Font or Icon Size, Color Depth, and Refresh Rate on a Dell Computer

Answer the following question to proceed with this step. Before You Begin
Are you using Microsoft Windows XP or Windows Vista?
How can I tell?
I am using Microsoft Windows XP
I am using Microsoft Windows Vista

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» Additional Information

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How do I Enlarge the Text in Internet Explorer? Article ID: 122233
This article provides instructions for adjusting the font size specifically for Internet Explorer®.

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This is a step-by-step flat panel monitor troubleshooting wizard.

Problems With Laptop LCD Screen  Wizard ID: 295655
This is a step-by-step laptop screen troubleshooting wizard.

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