DRuger

New Member
Joined
Dec 3, 2009
Messages
6
I've searched several forums, but can't find an answer, so I'll ask here.
I like the auto-dim feature in Windows 7 when the computer is idle, however I'd like it to dim more than it does. I can adjust the brightness while I'm using it, but I can't find a setting to allow me adjust the level the display dims when inactive. Have I missed it, or is it missing?
 

Solution
This may only be for Dells, but I have that option under Control Panel, Power Options, Change Plan Settings, Change advanced power settings, Display, Dimmed display brightness. Please note, however, that even though the setting allows you to enter a value from 0-100%, 0% is not actually completely black, but rather just is the dimmest end of the available range, which may not actually seem that dim to you (it doesn't to me). I know of no way to modify the lower limit of the range.

moz-screenshot.png

That was exactly what I was looking for! The path was a bit different, Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, Power Options, Change Plan Settings, Change advanced power settings...

kemical

Essential Member
Joined
Aug 28, 2007
Messages
36,176
Hi, have you checked the advanced power settings? (see screenshot)
 

DRuger

New Member
Joined
Dec 3, 2009
Messages
6
Advanced settings allow me to set the level it dims while using the computer, not while it's "resting".
 

keyesc

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Joined
Dec 3, 2009
Messages
8
This may only be for Dells, but I have that option under Control Panel, Power Options, Change Plan Settings, Change advanced power settings, Display, Dimmed display brightness. Please note, however, that even though the setting allows you to enter a value from 0-100%, 0% is not actually completely black, but rather just is the dimmest end of the available range, which may not actually seem that dim to you (it doesn't to me). I know of no way to modify the lower limit of the range.

moz-screenshot.png
 

keyesc

New Member
Joined
Dec 3, 2009
Messages
8
Sorry, I don't know what "OP" is (Original Problem, maybe?), but I believe he's talking about the "Dim the display" feature, whereas it sounds like you're talking about the "Put the computer to sleep" feature. Both have intervals you can set under Power Options. When my computer goes to sleep, it does indeed go black, but that is quite different from dimming the display (see screenshot).

moz-screenshot-2.png
 

DRuger

New Member
Joined
Dec 3, 2009
Messages
6
This may only be for Dells, but I have that option under Control Panel, Power Options, Change Plan Settings, Change advanced power settings, Display, Dimmed display brightness. Please note, however, that even though the setting allows you to enter a value from 0-100%, 0% is not actually completely black, but rather just is the dimmest end of the available range, which may not actually seem that dim to you (it doesn't to me). I know of no way to modify the lower limit of the range.

moz-screenshot.png

That was exactly what I was looking for! The path was a bit different, Control Panel, Hardware and Sound, Power Options, Change Plan Settings, Change advanced power settings, Display, Dimmed display brightness. You're right, 0% is far from Black, but it's far better than it was, and hopefully saves some power.
 

Solution

Phred

Senior Member
Joined
Aug 12, 2011
Messages
3
I've found F.lux (or Flux) that uses the time of day and your place on the Earth to determine suitable screen levels, but it changes the screen colour, not the brightness. It would be nice if it worked the other way around. F.lux: software to make your life better
BTW, the 'Dimmed display brightness' setting isn't here on this Windows 7 Pro.