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General discussion

VGA Connectivity Problem on LN40A500

Dec 19, 2008 3:44AM PST

I've been really happy with this set (my first LCD), but ran into the following problem recently.

I attempted to connect my laptop via the VGA connection on the set and then selected it from the list of sources. Initially, the TV didn't detect a signal from the laptop - I tweaked the video settings on the laptop and got the TV to at least acknowledge the signal, however the TV displayed a "Mode not supported" message.

I've tried multiple laptops, different cables, and a whole bunch of video settings in Windows.

Any ideas?

Discussion is locked

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How is the TV detected?
Dec 19, 2008 4:58AM PST

First, did you read through this previous thread? http://forums.cnet.com/5208-13973_102-0.html?forumID=146&threadID=319407&messageID=2923093#2923093

How is the TV recognized by the computer? Does it list it as "SAMSUNG" or just a generic PnP monitor? I'm going to guess it's the later, which is a sign of a poor VGA cable.

Anyway, what resolution and refresh rate are you trying? 1920x1080p @ something approximating 60Hz should work -- I say approximating because, on my Mac, 60Hz doesn't work but 59.9Hz does work as a refresh rate.

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Detected as "Samsung"
Dec 21, 2008 9:05AM PST

The laptop detects the TV as a second monitor and labels it "Samsung" in the drop down menu.

When the VGA cable is connected to the TV, the message on the TV screen changes from "Check Signal Cable" to "Mode Not Supported."

On the laptop, the refresh rate is set at 60Hz, and max resolution is 1280x800.

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What resolutions?
Dec 21, 2008 12:05PM PST

What resolutions have you tried? Have you tried going down to 640x480?

Also, are you using cloning or do you have windows set to extend the desktop onto the 2nd monitor?

Do you have the latest drivers for your video chipset?

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Video Settings
Dec 21, 2008 11:07PM PST

I've tried 1024x768 in addition to 1280x1024. With a second laptop I've tried 1366x768.

I do have the laptop set up for cloning. I've also tried extending the desktop - neither works.

I'll check the drivers this evening & update the thread.

Thanks a bunch for your help!!!!

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BIOS
Dec 22, 2008 6:09AM PST

sailormatt,

This may sound strange, but check with your computers manufacturer's website and download the latest BIOS update if there is one.

--HDTech