First Steps

First Steps Guide for Custom Resolution Utility (CRU)

Custom Resolution Utility (CRU) is a powerful tool that allows you to create and manage custom resolutions for your monitor by modifying the Extended Display Identification Data (EDID). This guide will walk you through the basic steps to get started with CRU, especially for first-time users. Follow these instructions carefully to avoid issues with your display.

Step 1: Download and Set Up CRU

  1. Download CRU: Download ZIP file containing the application.
  2. Extract the Files: Once downloaded, extract the ZIP file to a folder of your choice. CRU is a portable app, so no installation is required.
  3. Launch CRU: Double-click CRU.exe to start the application.

Step 2: Understand the Interface

When you first open CRU, you’ll see a list of your monitor’s current resolutions and detailed resolutions. Here’s what each section means:

  • Detailed Resolutions: These are the main resolutions supported by your monitor. You can add or edit these resolutions to customize your display.
  • Standard Resolutions: These are basic resolutions, mainly for older CRT monitors.
  • Extension Blocks: This section defines additional features like audio or FreeSync, and is where HDMI/DisplayPort-specific features are managed.

Step 3: Backup Your Current Configuration

Before making any changes, it’s essential to back up your current display configuration in case something goes wrong.

  1. Export Settings: Click on the drop-down arrow next to the monitor name in the CRU interface.
  2. Select Export, and save the configuration file somewhere safe. This backup will allow you to restore your original settings if needed.

Step 4: Adding a Custom Resolution

Now that you’re familiar with the layout, you can start creating a custom resolution.

  1. Add a New Resolution:
    • Under Detailed Resolutions, click the Add button.
    • In the dialog box that appears, enter your desired resolution settings, including the horizontal and vertical pixels, refresh rate, and timing options.
    • Tip: Use the preset timing options (LCD Standard, LCD Reduced, CRT, etc.) if you’re unsure about the timing details.
  2. Test for Compatibility:
    • Ensure the resolution and refresh rate you enter are supported by both your monitor and graphics card to avoid display issues.

Step 5: Apply the New Resolution

After adding the new resolution, you’ll need to restart your display driver for the changes to take effect.

  1. Restart the Graphics Driver:
    • You can do this manually by restarting your computer, or you can use the included tool restart.exe (found in the same folder as CRU) to restart the graphics driver without rebooting.

Step 6: Verify the New Resolution

Once your system restarts:

  1. Check Display Settings:
    • Right-click on your desktop and go to Display Settings.
    • Under Resolution, check if the new custom resolution appears in the dropdown list.
    • Select the custom resolution and apply the changes to verify it works correctly.

Step 7: Troubleshooting Display Issues

If you encounter problems after applying a new resolution (such as a blank screen), you can:

  1. Use Safe Mode: Boot into safe mode by restarting your computer and interrupting the boot process twice to trigger recovery options. From here, you can remove the problematic resolution using CRU or restore your original settings.
  2. Restore Your Backup:
    • Open CRU, click the drop-down arrow, and select Import.
    • Choose the backup configuration file you saved earlier to revert to your original display settings.

Step 8: Explore Advanced Features (Optional)

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can explore more advanced features such as:

  • Modifying Extension Blocks: Add support for FreeSync, HDMI audio, or additional resolutions.
  • Overclocking Your Monitor: Some users overclock their display by increasing the refresh rate above the manufacturer’s specifications.
  • Defining Standard Resolutions: For CRT monitors, you can define standard resolutions using specific settings.

Step 9: Keep Your Setup Safe

Always be cautious when experimenting with resolutions and refresh rates. Incorrect settings can lead to display issues. If you’re ever unsure, refer to your monitor’s manual or research the supported resolutions for your specific display model.

With this guide, you should have a good grasp of how to use Custom Resolution Utility (CRU) to create and apply custom resolutions for your monitor. As you gain more experience, you can dive deeper into the tool’s advanced capabilities, but always remember to back up your settings before making significant changes!