Aspect ratio issue with New LG L226WTG-BF monitor(s)

[JeffD]

I just replaced my 2 ailing CRT monitors with identical LG L226WTG-BF (22" widescreen) displays. Though I installed the LG drivers, I don't have the option of choosing the optimal 1680x1050 screen size in Properties / Setting / Screen Area on my Win2k system.

The monitors are connected to my Dell PC with analog cables, as the displays did not come with the DVI-D cables, although they have DVI-D outputs and my Dell's video adapter (4+ year-old ATI Fire GL X1) supports DVI-D.

My screen settings are at 1280x1024 because the only available screen area option close to the 16:10 native aspect ratio of the monitors (1600x1024) looks crappy (text blurred).

As a result, everything is distored horizontally with my 1280x1024 setting.

I'll call LG tomorrow morning when their Customer Service operation opens, but I'm wondering if anyone here has advice.

Is this likely a problem with the video adapter or its drivers? Might I see the 1680x1050 screen setting option if I were to (buy DVI-D cables and) connect with DVI-D? Is my best bet to get a new video adapter?

TIA,
Jeff

[Soopafresh]

You should use the DVI connections - the quality difference is considerable. Also, update to later video drivers if you haven't yet. And it might be possible that your video card isn't powerful enough to send that much resolution to 2 high res monitors.

[JeffD]

You should use the DVI connections - the quality difference is considerable.

Thanks. I do plan to do that (was surprised the cables didn't come with the monitors.

Also, update to later video drivers if you haven't yet.

Hmmm... my graphics card has been discontinued; I'll see about that.

And it might be possible that your video card isn't powerful enough to send that much resolution to 2 high res monitors.

I'll call Dell to ask about that.

Thanks!

[jagabo]

A driver update may be enough.

[JeffD]

UPDATE: I got it working!

I downloaded and installed driver update, and now I'm set at 1680x1050 as desired. Things are looking nice, and I'm surprised these old eyes can read things at that size. But the brightness and sharpness help.

Thanks again for the sugg.

(Tomorrow I'm getting the DVI cables...)

JeffD