False Dual Monitor Detection
I've run into recent Dell's where the Desktop has dual monitor outputs (HDMI + VGA) and somehow, when only VGA is plugged in, the system thinks there are dual screens and puts the Windows main stuff on a non existing screen. Leaving only Mouse cursor on screen you see.
Blindly reset the monitor outputs - press Windows + P.
On both Win7 and Win10 "Home" sets the highlighted option to "PC Screen Only" which I think will work for every situation. Then press enter to make a change. To switch from dual monitor "extended" to mirror mode or whatever. (Try on a working computer to see the UI).
(Or on Win7: left or right, on Win10: up or down)
Safe Mode
Unfortunately, in Windows XP's Safe Mode, you can not make changes to the "normal" refresh rate and resolution.
Fortunately, there's an easier way to boot Windows XP with a lower resolution for older monitors. Instead of going into Safe Mode, use the "Enable VGA Mode" at boot time.
Moving Program From an "Off" Screen to Current Screen
Win 10: Shift+Right Click on program in Task Bar. Select "Move". Windows will jump the mouse cursor to the application bar of the program. IMMEDIATELY hold down the left mouse button to drag the window onto the screen you can see. On one machine where I have a TV on an HDMI output, the computer doesn't detect when the TV turns itself off.
Custom Resolutions for Intel GPU
I'm running into a lot of Intel integrated GPUs that I want to connect to new monitors or TV's. Often there are resolution issues.
Remember to uncheck the "hide options my monitor can't display" option.
Intel IGP notes - REM: 82865G was sold as "865G"
Hack the Intel graphics driver:
http://w0rst-hardware.blogspot.ca/2008/02/make-1680x1050-and-1440x900-resolution.html
http://www.komku.org/2009/10/how-to-get-1920x1080-full-hd-resolution.html#sthash.PfKaCIf8.dpbs
DTDCalculator - There are many references to this. It is for GMA900 aka 915G/GM and newer ONLY.
http://www.avsforum.com/t/947830/custom-resolution-tool-for-intel-graphics-easier-overscan-correction
TOTRY:
- custom monitor.inf file if EDID is missing? - Vista + I think.
- http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/7947-force-dvi-hdmi-resolutions-refresh-rates.html
Tags: windows, screen, monitor, resolution, trick, 1080p, TV