Maximum resolution for external monitor?

[alosito]

I have T420i (model 4177CTO, S/N r8mp0pp). I connected an external monitor which suggests that I should use resolution 1920x1080. When I go to Control Panel, the maximum resolution that I can choose is 1600x900. Is there any way for me to use a suggested 1920x1080 resolution with my machine?

[axur-delmeria]

Maybe Windows is set to "clone" the two displays (laptop LCD and external monitor).

With two monitors connected, the different modes are:

Clone --> the display is the same between the two screen. In this case, you can only set the resolution to the highest one that both screens support. I'm assuming that your T420i's screen is 1600x900.

Extend --> the 2nd monitor extends the first, so if you place them side by side, it would feel like you have 1 very wide screen.

LCD only --> uses only the laptop's LCD, obviously;

Monitor only --> self-explanatory.


If you have Lenovo's Hotkey program installed, try pressing Fn+F7 until the external monitor is active. Then try changing the resolution.