Seems like a common problem based on my search online, but many causes. I updated my drivers using SlimDriver(supposed to be safe), and afterword my setting for 1280x800 resolution went disappeared. Could be wrong, but does this mean I need to use a different driver? How do I do that? What driver should I be using? I currently use an HP EliteBook 8730w.
Actually guys I got what I needed. I used this link How to Add Custom Resolution to ATI | eHow.com Though I have to warn you if you use it, windows seven is slightly different, but the base idea worked the same.
Please let me know if I did something horribly stupid. But the resolution is exactly how I want it.
When I first went to Win7 during an Windows update it added a chipset update which caused this problem. Until that happened I always had my update set to automatically update as I never had any problems before. Now I have it set to download all updates but to ask me before installing it. Whenever you see that particular chipset update don't allow it. I fixed my problem with a fresh install of Win7. You don't really need an update program as you can search for driver updates in Device Manager. I use to have one of those programs which I paid for but the more I learn about computers the more I realize that most of the time there is a free program out there that will do whatever you want. Also I've found that some of these work better than the purchased one.
Walt
It is interesting that you say a fresh install put your 1280x800 back on, because I reinstalled my 32bit and it still wasn't there, then I reinstalled my 64bit and again it still wasn't there. I wonder if it is your vista vs. my 7? Regardless I am happy your problem was solved.When I first went to Win7 during an Windows update it added a chipset update which caused this problem. Until that happened I always had my update set to automatically update as I never had any problems before. Now I have it set to download all updates but to ask me before installing it. Whenever you see that particular chipset update don't allow it. I fixed my problem with a fresh install of Win7. You don't really need an update program as you can search for driver updates in Device Manager. I use to have one of those programs which I paid for but the more I learn about computers the more I realize that most of the time there is a free program out there that will do whatever you want. Also I've found that some of these work better than the purchased one.
Walt
I would have to agree with you on the free programs part as well. It seems that there is a revolution upon us, where people seem to fervently believe that all programs should be free.very hippy.
I think you misunderstood me. When I was referring to Vista I was talking about Windows Update. My computer was running Win 7 and after the re-install it was restored back to factory condition before the Windows Update was installed that caused the problem. Now I set Update to down load all updates but to ask me before it installed them. If I saw the chipset update again I refused to install it therefore not causing the resolution problem again. Then I think when that update came up again I believe I had the option to hide that update so it never came back again. The last sentence I'm not 100% sure about because it's been awhile but I think that's what I did because I haven't seen the chipset update since.
Walt
My recommendation would be to download and install the drivers directly from HP's website if they are available. Those drivers are really the only ones that were specifically tested with your system configuration. I really don't recommend using any 3rd party tools to perform driver updates; there's no telling where they get the drivers from and some of those drivers may be incompatible with your setup. It never hurts to actually locate the drivers yourself if you are having an issue with a certain piece of hardware. Otherwise, as a PC technician, I would say "If it ain't broke, don't fix it"
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