S3 Driver Doesn't Correctly Support 72Hz on Some IBM PS/2 Models

 Last reviewed: March 21, 1997
Article ID: Q139207

The information in this article applies to:
  • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation version 3.51
  • Microsoft Windows NT Server version 3.51

SYMPTOMS

The S3 video driver included with Windows NT version 3.51 does not correctly implement the 72Hz refresh rate when used with the onboard S3 based video on IBM PS/2 Model 76i and Model 77i computers.

Attempting to install the driver and invoking the "Test" option in the Display section of Control Panel results in the test bitmap appearing for a short time, after which the image degrades and the screen turns black.

The driver functions correctly when a 60Hz refresh rate is selected.

Depending on the capabilities of your monitor, you may or may not see this behavior.

CAUSE

When Windows NT attempts to set the video mode to 72hz, it incorrectly sets it to 97hz Vertical and 75mhz Horizontal. The standard for 72hz is 72hz Vertical and 48mhz Horizontal.

RESOLUTION

A new version of the S3.SYS driver is available which corrects this problem. It is available in the latest Service Pack for Windows NT version 3.51.

STATUS

Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Windows NT version 3.51. This problem was corrected in the latest Windows NT 3.51 U.S. Service Pack. For information on obtaining the Service Pack, query on the following word in the Microsoft Knowledge Base (without the spaces): 

   S E R V P A C K

Additional query words: prodnt display
Keywords : kbbug3.51 kbdisplay kbfix3.51.sp4 ntdriver
Version : 3.51
Platform : WinNT

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Last reviewed: March 21, 1997
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