Need help! T43 has trouble with external 22" LCD

[nivekz]

I recently purchased a new samsung 22" LCD (1680x1050) hoping to work with my T43 (2668). Unfortunately, they don't work well. I notice that each pixel has "shadow" to the right direction, which is quite annoying and make the quality of picture poor. I am pretty sure it only happens with this T43, as I have tested extensively with other machines and LCDs. Also I have set the refreshing rate to 60 and tried different OS (XP, linux, Vista), even tried to view the screen in BIOS (but still shadows).




I had a hard time asking lenovo to have it returned and examed. But when it is sent back from lenovo, I learned that they just updated the bios for me. Hell, that's very irresponsible.. Later I tried with some friend's T43 which is the same model as mine. The same problem shows! I became very frustrated. And in fact, I planned to buy a desktop for my new LCD..

But before I buy the redundant desktop, I come across this forum and found that some people are doing fine with large external LCDs. I feel that maybe I can be saved. Do you think using something like DOCK II or ThinkPad Port Replicator II can work? I know my LCD works pretty well with DVI port with desktops.

[frankiepankie]

How is your LCD screen connected?

Trough DVI, or trough VGA ?

You should lookup the native resolution of the LCD, and change the settings on your T43, so that your T43 is putting signal out on the correct resolution.


If the resolution is too low, or too high your image on the LCD screen can get fuzzy, or you will see things like you are experiencing right now.

[pianowizard]

Try pressing the "AUTO" button on the Samsung monitor.

[nivekz]

I am using VGA cable right now as it is the only way without getting a dock. It is the right resolution for my external LCD and I have used the AUTO button every time.

The awful shadow always appears. : (

[ulrich.von.lich]

Could it be a bad VGA connector? The best way to test it is to hook up the LCD via Port Replicator or Mini Dock and see if the problem persists. They cost almost nothing on eBay now.

Best of luck

[nivekz]

Ok. I guess I must try the docks, though they don't cost nothing.. Around $20.. Anyway it worths a try.

I will update the result.. best luck to myself : )

Could it be a bad VGA connector? The best way to test it is to hook up the LCD via Port Replicator or Mini Dock and see if the problem persists. They cost almost nothing on eBay now.

Best of luck

[davidspalding]

What model Samsung? I bought a 21" 205BW (which Consumer Reports rated well) at Costco, $199 or so, and loved it. Then a month later, they got in a 22" with a sexy glossy black frame, and I took it home to try it. Visibly worse picture. Both connected with DVI out of a MiniDock and Dock II. I took back the 22" back pronto.

Be aware that a digital connection will be better, as the monitor will self-calibrate some settings, so a docking station is a Good Idea. I like the MiniDock as you get 4 USB ports (not the 1 the PR offers), and a key lock (handy for public/work environments). I'm guessing the USB hub is powered, too, since the MiniDock uses a big-a** power supply.

[nivekz]

What model Samsung? I bought a 21" 205BW (which Consumer Reports rated well) at Costco, $199 or so, and loved it. Then a month later, they got in a 22" with a sexy glossy black frame, and I took it home to try it. Visibly worse picture. Both connected with DVI out of a MiniDock and Dock II. I took back the 22" back pronto.

Be aware that a digital connection will be better, as the monitor will self-calibrate some settings, so a docking station is a Good Idea. I like the MiniDock as you get 4 USB ports (not the 1 the PR offers), and a key lock (handy for public/work environments). I'm guessing the USB hub is powered, too, since the MiniDock uses a big-a** power supply.

I have this problem solved as I get a Port Replicator II from ebay. I like them now very much!

It is a Samsung 2200WM. Your advice is very helpful. I wonder maybe it is the one you mean ... I got it on sale so maybe I should stick to it....

Nonetheless the problem is solved. it is much better than VGA connection.. Thank you..