An “out of range” message on a computer monitor is a common issue, signifying the monitor is receiving a video signal it cannot process or show. While inconvenient, this problem is typically resolvable and does not indicate permanent hardware damage.
Understanding the “Out of Range” Display Message
The “out of range” message appears when the computer’s graphics card sends a video signal with a resolution or refresh rate that the connected monitor cannot support. Resolution refers to the number of pixels displayed, like 1920×1080, where higher numbers mean sharper images. Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), indicates how many times per second the monitor updates its image. A standard monitor often has a 60Hz refresh rate, while gaming monitors can reach much higher rates like 144Hz or 240Hz for smoother motion. When the signal exceeds the monitor’s capabilities, it cannot synchronize and displays the error.
Common Causes for the Error
Common causes for an “out of range” message include installing new hardware, such as a graphics card or monitor, which might default to incompatible display settings. Graphics card driver updates can also introduce issues if incorrect or corrupted drivers lead to a mismatch. Running certain games or applications can trigger this error if their display settings exceed the monitor’s capabilities. Connecting a computer to a different display, or manually changing display settings to unsupported values, are also direct causes.
Step-by-Step Solutions
Resolving an “out of range” error often requires adjusting display settings when the screen is not fully functional. Booting the computer into Safe Mode is a common starting point, as it loads Windows with a minimal set of drivers at a low resolution, making the display accessible. To enter Safe Mode, repeatedly interrupt the normal boot process until Windows enters Automatic Repair mode, then select Safe Mode. Once in Safe Mode, navigate to display settings to adjust the resolution to the monitor’s native or a lower, compatible setting, such as 1920×1080 for Full HD monitors, and set the refresh rate to 60Hz.
If accessing display settings remains difficult, consider updating or reinstalling graphics drivers. In Safe Mode, the graphics card driver can be uninstalled from Device Manager, allowing Windows to automatically install a basic, compatible driver upon restarting the system. After a successful restart, the correct, up-to-date drivers can be installed from the graphics card manufacturer’s website.
Physical checks are also important. Ensure that the display cable (HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI, or VGA) is securely connected at both the monitor and the computer ends, and try a different cable or port if available. Some monitors also offer an on-screen display (OSD) menu with an option to reset to factory defaults, which can sometimes resolve the issue.
Preventing Future “Out of Range” Issues
To prevent future “out of range” issues, always verify a monitor’s specifications, including its supported resolutions and refresh rates, before changing display settings or acquiring new hardware. This information is typically found in the monitor’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website. Regularly updating graphics drivers from official sources ensures compatibility and optimal performance. When connecting a computer to a new display, start with default or lower resolution settings before incrementally increasing them to find the highest compatible configuration. Exercise caution when modifying display settings within games or other applications, ensuring they align with your monitor’s capabilities to prevent unsupported signal outputs.