T41 native resolutions

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conniec · #1 Post by **conniec** » Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:27 am

I'm debating whether to exchange my 14.1" SGXA+ T41 for an XGA model. Although I've modified the display properties and am using custom large fonts, I still have trouble reading a lot of dialog boxes and some web pages.

Here is my question: the Access IBM config information states that this screen has two resolutions, SXGA+ and XGA (although I can also select SXGA under display properties). I understand that non-native resolutions don't display well. So when I select the XGA setting, is it still a "native" resolution and am I seeing exactly what I'd see on an XGA model, or is my display "fuzzier" because of the pixel interpolation on this SGXA+ model?

When I compared my screen with some friend's XGA 14" thinkpads, I didn't see much difference in sharpness. I'm trying to get a feel for how much less sharp the XGA display will be before I order another computer to try out. Has anyone here given up an SXGA+ for XGA?

Connie

JHEM · #2 Post by **JHEM** » Wed Sep 15, 2004 8:58 am

Connie,

I'm not quite sure that I understand your question but my XGA T40 is just as sharp and crisp as the SXGA+ client machines I've worked on, but the XGA display of course has less "real estate" available on the desktop and the fonts are larger and easier to read.

My soon-to-be 57YO working orb can use my XGA T40 without wearing my reading glasses, a feat that is hopeless on a 14" or 15" SXGA+ display.

Does that answer the question?

Regards,

James

conniec · #3 Post by **conniec** » Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:14 am

Thanks, that does answer my real question -- is the XGA as sharp as the SXGA+? I thought I could compare the two resolutions on my own laptop, but if the XGA is "non-native" on my SXGA+ screen then I'm not really seeing its true sharpness.

Since we share the same vision challenges (my 45 yo eyes don't focus so well anymore either!) let me ask you if there is anything you prefer in the SXGA+? What would I be giving up besides the extra real estate (which I am sort of loosing anyway since I bump everything up so large)?

I have 3 more days before my 30 day trial is up...

JHEM · #4 Post by **JHEM** » Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:34 am

The only thing I miss on my XGA T40 vs. an SXGA+ display is the added real estate.

All other things (resolution, sharpness, brightness, colors, etc., etc.) are equal IMHO.

You're correct WRT viewing XGA on your SXGA+ display. When XGA is selected and set to full screen the display is being "tricked" into showing that resolution and the result will be fuzzy, to say the least.

If you're ever close to Medford, I'd be happy to show you my XGA T40, but I doubt we have the time to let you A-B them before you have to return your's.

Regards,

James

conniec · #5 Post by **conniec** » Wed Sep 15, 2004 9:56 am

James,

Thanks so much for the quick response, that's exactly what I needed to know. I see that many on this forum are great advocates of hi-res screens, but I think I'm going to make the exchange.

Now the dilemma is: which Express T41/T42 14.1" XGA to get instead? I'll reread all the posts on this issue but would appreciate any advice you or others have -- my needs are pretty basic, combo drive and wifi is all I need.

(BTW, Medford from NW Montco is at least a 1.5 hr trip, but I appreciate the offer!)

Thanks,

Connie

sktn77a · #6 Post by **sktn77a** » Thu Sep 16, 2004 1:17 pm

Connie:

LCDs only have one "native" resolution - it's the number of horizontal and vertical pixels that the screen has. Anything else is an interpolated resolution. This is what makes text a little blurry. Try setting your resolution to XGA and then go into your screen properties and set "cleartype" . This is basically anti-aliasing for text (It's what I use for non-native resolutions). If that doesn't work, get a computer with an XGA screen that is at least 14". If you go this route, check with Bill Morrow for a good price or check the Ohio or Massachusetts educations pages on the IBM website.

Old age is the pits!!!

conniec · #7 Post by **conniec** » Thu Sep 16, 2004 1:38 pm

I thought that educational prices were only for bona fide students, and that IBM will eventually check and charge the difference?

Leon · #8 Post by **Leon** » Thu Sep 16, 2004 2:04 pm

like anything else, it's not always, but I know cases where they have.... you lose your warranty too.... it is fraud ant IBM has a lot ow lawyers...not worth the risk.. call Bill and get the best price that you can...

conniec · #9 Post by **conniec** » Thu Sep 16, 2004 3:36 pm

That's what I thought, just doing one last check on buying options. I considered buying from Bill but I want to use a credit card which decreases his discount.

plucky duck · #10 Post by **plucky duck** » Thu Sep 16, 2004 11:52 pm

People rave about the 15" UXGA+ display as well, but I've had the opportunity to try it over a few days and the text was too small for my tastes and gave me a lot of eye strain. I see a lot more empty real estate with shrunken paragraphs and form. Not the best way to utilize the space given.

I'd say go with what your eyes tell you is comfortable and not what others say. To determine what resolution suits you best, it's best that you see it in person and play around with it.

I'm happy with SXGA+ on the 14", though it did taking some used to. And very comfortable with XGA on the 12" X31.

T41 native resolutions

T41 native resolutions

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