How to Set Custom Resolution on a Cracked Screen: Utilizing Only the Working Area

Dealing with a cracked screen can be frustrating, especially when it hinders your productivity. Setting a custom resolution allows you to make the most of the usable area, enhancing your user experience. This guide provides steps to set custom resolution on both Windows and macOS, aiming to maximize the working area on your damaged screen. Additionally, it offers tips to further streamline your working conditions.

Steps to Set Custom Resolution on a Cracked Screen in Windows

The first step is to adjust the display resolution manually to fit the functional area of your cracked screen. Here’s how to do it:

Right-click on the Desktop and choose Display settings. Scroll down to find the Display resolution dropdown. Select a lower resolution that matches the working area of your screen. For more customized settings, scroll down and click on Advanced display settings. Next, click on Display adapter properties for Display 1 (or the relevant display if you have multiple). Go to the Monitor tab and click on List All Modes. This will show you different resolutions and refresh rates. To create a custom resolution, use a third-party application such as Custom Resolution Utility (CRU). This tool allows you to set resolutions that aren’t available by default.

Steps to Set Custom Resolution on a Cracked Screen in macOS

For macOS users, the process is slightly different yet still effective:

Click on the Apple logo in the top left corner and select System Preferences. Click on Displays. To see more resolution options, hold down the Option key and click on Scaled. Select a resolution that fits the working area. If you need a custom resolution, consider using third-party applications like SwitchResX.

Additional Tips for Handling a Cracked Screen

Utilizing the tips below can further improve your working conditions:

Connect to an External Monitor

If feasible, connect your cracked screen device to an external monitor. This can offer a better working area while you address the screen issue. External monitors often provide better color accuracy and higher resolutions, enhancing productivity.

Screen Calibration

Another useful step is to calibrate your screen settings. Calibration can help adjust how the display is rendered, making text and images more readable and consistent.

Advanced Windows Registry Adjustments (Advanced Option)

In some cases, modifying the Windows Registry to force a custom resolution might be necessary. However, this should be considered a last resort and is not generally recommended unless you are comfortable with advanced settings.

Important Notes:

Remember, any cracked screen should be replaced as soon as possible. Attempting to 'use only the working area' of a cracked screen is not advised as it can cause further damage and may hinder your work more than help it.

Always back up your data, especially if you are using third-party software or making significant system changes. This can prevent data loss in case something goes wrong.