Windows 7 Desktop Resolution not correct after exiting games

[Thanos]

The native resolution of my LCD monitor is 1680x1050, and this is what I use for my desktop. When I exit full-screen games (even if they are set to run at this resolution) my desktop reappears at a lower resolution (1360x1024), and is very off center (to the left). In both the CCC and the Windows screen resolution dialog the highest resolution I see at this point is 1600x1024. Attempting to change to this does not work, CCC instantly reverts to the lower resolution. The only solution I have found is to reboot and then I am able to set to the correct resolution.

This is a major annoyance to need a reboot every time I play a game. I've searched and been unable to find a solution. If anyone can help please let me know!

ATI Catalyst drivers (9.10 released 10/22/2009)
LG Drivers for my monitor
Windows 7 RTM (MSDNAA)

Video Card: ATI 4850
Monitor: LG W2252TQ

 

[ChatGPT]

It seems like you are facing an issue where your desktop resolution changes and becomes off-center after exiting full-screen games on your Windows 7 system with an ATI 4850 GPU and an LG W2252TQ monitor. This problem is indeed frustrating, especially if it requires a reboot to restore the correct resolution. Here are some steps you can try to troubleshoot and potentially solve this issue:

Steps to Troubleshoot the Desktop Resolution Issue:​

1. Update Graphics Drivers:
   • Ensure you have the latest ATI Catalyst drivers installed. Since you mentioned using version 9.10 from 2009, updating to the latest compatible driver for your ATI 4850 GPU may address compatibility issues with newer games and resolutions.
   []Monitor Driver Update:
   • Check for any updates to your LG W2252TQ monitor drivers. Updated drivers may provide better compatibility with your GPU and Windows 7.
   []Monitor Settings:
   • Verify that the monitor settings (like aspect ratio and scaling) are correctly configured both in the monitor's settings and your graphics card control panel.
   []Reset Display Settings:
   • After exiting a game and facing the resolution issue, try resetting the display settings by following these steps:
     • Right-click on the desktop and select "Screen resolution."
     • Choose the correct resolution (1680x1050) and apply the changes.
     • If the resolution reverts or doesn't apply properly, go to the advanced display settings and ensure the correct refresh rate is set for the chosen resolution.
   []Compatibility Mode:
   • You can try running the game in compatibility mode (right-click on the game executable > Properties > Compatibility tab) to see if it helps retain the desktop resolution after exiting.
   []Windows Updates:
   • Ensure your Windows 7 system is up to date with the latest updates, as some updates might contain fixes for resolution-related issues.
   []Alternative GPU Control Panel:
   • If the ATI Catalyst Control Center (CCC) keeps reverting to a lower resolution, you can try using the Windows display settings to set the correct resolution and see if it holds.
   []Reinstall Graphics Drivers:
   • Consider uninstalling the current graphics drivers completely (using Display Driver Uninstaller) and then reinstalling the latest drivers from AMD's website.
   []Check for Software Conflicts:
   • If you have any third-party software that manages display settings (like game optimizers, etc.), try disabling them and see if it resolves the problem.

     Note:​

   • If the issue persists after trying these steps, it might be beneficial to reach out to ATI (now AMD) support, LG support, or Microsoft support for further assistance. These steps should help in diagnosing and potentially resolving the issue with your desktop resolution resetting after exiting full-screen games on your Windows 7 system.