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Windows 10 reset external monitors settings

Hello,

   When I connected my Laptop to a 4k TV with a HDMI cable I tried different resolutions for the TV. Of course I tried the 4k resolution just to see if there is any noticeable difference and thinking that if I don't like the performance I can always change it back to 1080p. Before I applied the 4k resolution I changed the settings to "Second screen only" ( really bad choice) and right after I changed it, my TV screen went white / a light grey. After I disconnect the hdmi cable my laptop monitor stays white for a few seconds than it goes into the lockscreen (fully usable after that).

   The problem is that because I changed the settings to second screen only, every time I connect my laptop to the TV it automatically changes the settings to that mode and the TV resolution to 4k, so I can't go in the display settings and change the resolution back.

   How can I reset the TV's settings so that windows will think that is the first time I'm connecting to it?

Thank you!

Answer
Answer

   I have found a solution for my problem but I had to delete three registry keys.

   Warning! This solution worked for me and I do not guarantee it will work for you. I am not responsible if anything happens to your PC.

  1.     Press Windows + R
  2.     Type regedit and hit ENTER.
  3.     If a message pops up saying "do you want to allow this app to make changes to your device" click YES.
  4.     A window called "Registry Editor" should show.
  5.     Locate this three registry keys:
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\GraphicsDrivers\Configuration
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\GraphicsDrivers\Connectivity
    • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\GraphicsDrivers\ScaleFactors
  6.     After finding them right click on each folder and select delete than yes.

    Basically what this did was to force windows forget the monitors (and their settings) that you used with this PC. After this when you connect your PC to a monitor, windows should "rediscover" it as if it was the first time and all the settings will be at their default values again.

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Question Info

Last updated May 7, 2024 Views 202,080 Applies to: