Comments on: An LCD monitor for retro computing

By: Dave Farquhar

Dave Farquhar — Sat, 26 May 2018 01:17:11 +0000

In reply to Doug. Thank you. I expect many people will find your observations incredibly helpful.

By: Doug

Doug — Wed, 23 May 2018 15:47:47 +0000

I have some new information that may be of use to the next person to find this blog. I recently purchased a Dell 2001FP. I was initially told that it was a 2004 model, but they sent me a July 2005 model by mistake. They exchanged the unit once I told them of the mistake. As a result I had an opportunity to test both the 2004 and 2005 back-to-back.

With respect to the differences, I made two observations. The 2004 model had a crisper image. This was especially noticeable when increasing the “Sharpness” setting. A checkerboard pattern, which was visible on both monitors was also more noticeable on the 2005 model. Perhaps this has something to do with the 15 kHz synchronization you mentioned above.

Secondly, and more importantly, the “Scaling” setting (Settings > Image Setting > Scaling) on the 2005 model did not properly display the image when using either “1:1” or “Aspect” mode. In both cases, those options stretched the image into a panoramic view, in the latter case the full width of the screen.

On the 2004 model, the “Aspect” displayed the C64 image in a perfect 4:3 ratio, with black bands at the top and bottom. It’s possible that there may have been some defect with this pre-owned monitor that accounts for the discrepancies, but I think it’s more likely the result of the changes to the internal components.

By: Dave Farquhar

Dave Farquhar — Wed, 16 May 2018 00:34:38 +0000

In reply to Doug.

Hi Doug,

From what I understand, the later model just doesn’t give as sharp of a picture. It’s been a while since I’ve seen a picture of a 64 with the later model so I can’t really describe the difference. I hope that helps?

Dave

By: Doug

Doug — Wed, 16 May 2018 00:21:02 +0000

I realize this is an old post, but I have a clarifying question for you. What do you mean by this comment:

“Post-June 2005 Dell 2001fp monitors will still work with a 64, but the results aren’t as good.”

I purchased what I thought was a 2004 model and the seller sent me a July 2005 model. What differences might I see with respect to using this monitor with a C64?

Regards,

Doug