Using an Insignia TV as a monitor in Windows 7

I had the same problem. Here is your solution:

The problem is the scan rate and resolution offered by your video card may not match what the TV can handle. The TV doesn't have the driver to adjust to the monitor's settings. The default driver doesn't have the range. Here's how you get around this issue:

1. Boot Windows into low resolution mode. You do this by rebooting the computer and tapping the F8 key. The computer will boot into a menu. You'll need to use the arrow keys to select low resolution mode. Hit enter. (Safe Mode may also work)
2. This will allow you to see the screen while you make adjustments. Right click on the desktop and select "Adjust the resolution" on the pop up menu. I'm running from memory here, so it might say something else relating to the graphic adjustments.
3. In the next screen you might have to click on "more settings" to get to the mode you need. Here are some I found that worked on my Insignia TV:

1600 x 1200

1280 x 1024

1280 x 960

1152 x 864

1024 x 768

Some might be more distorted than others. The aspect ratio is different for TV than computers. I'm using the VGA connector. DVI settings may also be different.

One more thing:

You need to be aware of the refresh rate. The TV can handle 60 or maybe 70hz. Usually nothing faster.  This control might show up under "More Settings" on the graphics interface box.

The error message on my TV is "No Signal" the same as if I tried to switch to VGA mode with nothing plugged in to the VGA port. I will try a clean boot but it is odd that I can boot with one monitor just fine but another one I need to disable my video card in order to get signal.

Hi,

What is the complete and exact error message?

Let’s check if the issue persists in clean boot state.

Putting your system in clean boot state helps in identifying if any third party applications or startup items are causing the issue.

Try the steps provided under Step 1 in the below article to put your computer in clean boot mode.

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929135

Connect your computer to a TVhttp://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows7/Connect-your-computer-to-a-TV

HDTV: frequently asked questions

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-vista/HDTV-frequently-asked-questions

Thanks and Regards

Umesh P - Microsoft Support. Visit our Microsoft Answers Feedback Forum and let us know what you think.

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