Inspiron 9300 WUXGA non-native resolutions

I'm considering the Inspiron 9300. I've read up and think I've got a pretty firm grasp on the pros and cons of getting the WXGA+ vs the WUXGA. What I haven't been able to find out from my research is what non-native resolutions are supported by the display drivers for the WUXGA. I'm asking b/c of issues I'm currently having with an Inspiron 9100 (1920x1200). For some of the non-native resolutions supported by my system's display driver, I have the option of stretching the desktop resolution to fit the screen resolution (i.e., supporting 1280 x 1024 with no "black bars" on the side of my screen). Unfortunately, for some reason unbeknownst to me, my display driver will let me set my screen resolution to 1680x1050, BUT, upon choosing this resolution it ceases to give me the option to choose to have my desktop stretched to the full size of the screen. Thus, if I choose this resolution, I am stuck with black bars on BOTH the top AND the sides of the screen, rendering 1680x1050 as both a worthless and completely useless option. This is really sad because 1680x1050 is the only resolution other than 1280x800 that maintains a consistant 16:10 aspect ratio (key to making full use of your screen w/o causing distortion). So basically I'm left with choosing between 1920x1200 and 1280x800.

So, I'm wondering, could someone who owns a 9300 list for me the resolutions supported by the (hopefully most current display drivers? and which, if any, of these resolutions do not have the capability to make full use of the screen real-estate? (i.e., which ones don't have any black bars).

 

I can't say as far as the 9300, sorry! But regarding the 9100: I had an i8000 which would do the same thing when I dropped the resolution, but I found if I set the resolution to the lower setting and then reset the notebook it would stretch it full screen. Anyway, maybe something to try!

G.

 

LCD panels are meant to be used in their native resolution, you'll lose quality any anything else, unless it's a perfect half.

 

have u tried checking your BIOS for an option to stretch?

 

The Bios option only effects the bootup screens...but not games (Im not sure if they help WindowsXP's 2D GUI)
The 9300 (with Nvidia 6800Go) gives you just about every resolution in the book (under 1920x1200). You then have the option for:

"fixed aspect ratio" - the screen goes to maximum height...but places black bars on the sides. Lower quality at anything lower than 1920x1200.

"adapter scaling" - ..or full screen. The screen is completely filled (but will be distorted unless the resolution matches the 1920x1200 aspect ratio). Lower quality and distortion.

"centered output" - no stretching occurs. Black bars on all 4 sides. Gives the best image quality.

 

Does x300 have the same options?

 

Im not sure....
...but I would be VERY surprised if ATI did not.

ATI's Catalyst drivers seem just as "full featured" as Nvidia's Forceware.