How to adjust or change a monitor's refresh rate.

If you've ever used a CRT monitor, you know that fine-tuning your refresh rate is essential. The refresh rate of a display is measured in Hertz (abbreviated Hz) and specifies the number of times per second that a display is illuminated.

Setting the refresh rate to 60 Hz - a common default value - tells the monitor to redraw itself 60 times per second. For most people, that setting on a CRT monitor is too slow, resulting in an annoying flicker that can cause headaches, eyestrain, and fatigue. Bumping the refresh rate to a higher number can reduce that flicker, as long as the monitor itself can handle the faster rate.

If you're using an LCD monitor then a safe refresh rate lies in the 60Hz-75Hz range. A greater refresh rate when it comes to LCD's means greater performance.

How to adjust the refresh rate
Firstly you will need to right click on your desktop background and select Properties.

This will display the Display Properties window as show below.

You will need to click the Settings tab.

Once in the Settings tab you will need to click on the Advanced button.

Then click on the Monitor tab.

Here you can change the screen's refresh rate. Make sure the box next to Hide modes that this monitor cannot display is ticked. After you have selected the refresh rate you wish click OK. It would be a very good idea if you have the user's manual for the monitor handy just so that you can see what the manufacturer suggests the refresh rate should be set to.