I have these squiggly lines on my monitor when I run externally off my laptop. I have a 19" KDS CRT monitor. The problem happens when i try to run with a 1600 x 1200 resolution. The lines go away when I drop to a lower resolution. I know that this is not a refresh rate problem, and it's not an interference problem either. I'm running with a Dell Inspiron 500m, and I was mostly wondering a. Is this a problem with my video card, perhaps relating to overdriving or something like that, or is this a problem with my monitor. b. How can I find out which device is causing the problem. c. What can I do to fix it, considering the video is integrated into the laptop (perhaps I could get a video card for the pcmcia slot?)

The fact that the lines go away when you drop the resolution suggests tome that the problem lies with the monitor. It is never a good idea to run a CRT monitor at the highest resolution it is capable off as it does stress the components of the monitor. 1280 x 1024 should be fine on a 17" monitor. Stuart

I have a desktop cpu with the same problem, it does the squiggly thing with two monitors. I think the video (built in) has bad (low sync) and those monitors need a stronger sync signal. The monitor work fine with other computers. You choice is the lower resolution or another monitor. Did you try another monitor?

No, I haven't tried another monitor, mostly because the only other ones I have are 17" and can't reach 1600 x 1200 capability. I tried the 1600 x 1200 settings with my roomates laptop, and the lines were still there but not as bad. However he has a dell 600m which isn't much different than a 500m so its hard to tell from that if it has anything to do with video card. Shouldn't a 19" CRT monitor be able to reach 1600 x 1200 pretty easily though? This is frustrating because the monitor is only a year and a half old. I think you are right, probably another monitor is the best call, any other suggestions?.....