Custom Resolution Utility - CRU

Custom Resolution Utility (CRU) enables the definition of custom resolutions for both AMD/ATI and NVIDIA GPUs by establishing EDID overrides directly in the registry, eliminating the need for.inf files. It may now read extension blocks from monitors equipped with AMD/ATI and NVIDIA. Workarounds are no longer needed for NVIDIA. 

It will automatically add a blank extension block to the registry and.inf files if necessary to work around NVIDIA driver difficulties. Custom Resolution Utility (CRU) adds monitor resolutions, not scaled resolutions. If GPU scaling is enabled, lower resolutions will be scaled up; however, higher resolutions will not be scaled down. Higher resolutions will only work if your monitor supports them. 

ToastyX designed the program, which is both lightweight and advanced. It allows users to create and configure display resolutions and refresh rates in addition to the operating system's default options. CRU is mostly used to add custom resolutions, adjust timing factors, and fine-tune display settings for peak performance and visual quality.

Getting started

• Run CRU.exe. 
• Select a monitor from the dropdown list. 
• "(active)" indicates that the monitor is connected and recognized by the graphics driver. 
• "*" indicates that changes were made, and an override was saved in the registry. 
• Adjust the configuration as needed. Please see the sections below for more information. 
• Repeat steps 2-3 for any additional displays. 
• The "Copy" and "Paste" buttons at the top can be used to copy the resolutions, extension blocks, and range limits, if any. It will not duplicate the name or serial number, but it will include these items based on the monitor's information. Import uses the same logic unless "Import complete EDID" is selected. 
• Click "OK" to save your changes. 
• To restart the graphics driver, run restart.exe. 
• If the display does not reappear after 15 seconds, press F8 to enter recovery mode. This will temporarily unload all of the EDID overrides without removing them. Restart the driver again to apply any changes. 
• Set the resolution in Windows' display settings. To specify the refresh rate:  Windows 11/10: right-click the desktop > Display settings > Advanced display settings > Display adapter properties > Monitor tab. 
• Windows Vista/7/8/8.1: right-click on the desktop, then select Screen resolution, Advanced options, and Monitor tab.

To restore a display to its default configuration, click the "Delete" button at the top, delete the override from the registry, and reboot. To reset all displays, start reset-all.exe and reboot. This can be done in safe mode if needed.

Requirements

• OS: Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 10 or 11
• AMD/ATI or NVIDIA GPU with the appropriate driver installed (Microsoft Basic Display Adapter driver does not support EDID overrides)
• Some Intel GPUs and laptops with switchable graphics are supported with one of these drivers:
• 6th/7th generation (Skylake/Kaby Lake): Intel Graphics Driver for Windows 
• 4th/5th generation (Haswell/Broadwell): Intel Graphics Driver for Windows 
• 4th generation (Haswell) for Windows 7/8.1: Intel Graphics Driver for Windows 7/8.1 

Standard resolutions

• Standard resolutions are mostly helpful for CRT monitors and for incorporating lesser resolutions into LCD monitors. Don't include the native resolution as a standard resolution. 
• AMD/ATI only supports the resolutions shown in the drop-down list. The driver will ignore other resolutions. These will be listed in grey. 
• NVIDIA doesn't support more than eight common resolutions. 
• Standard resolution is restricted to 60-123 Hz. Add additional refresh rates using specified resolutions.

Features

Custom Resolution Creation: It enables users to generate custom resolutions and refresh rates that are not normally supported by default settings. This functionality is very handy for users looking to improve their gaming experience or work with specialist programs. 

Detailed Timing settings: The tool allows you to accurately control several timing settings, including horizontal and vertical sync, front and back porch, and pixel clock. This amount of customisation ensures compatibility and stability while pushing the display's capabilities. 

EDID Management: The software allows users to change the Extended Display Identification Data (EDID), which includes information about the monitor's capabilities. By modifying the EDID, you can get around these constraints and have access to more resolution and refresh rate possibilities. 

Backup and Restore Profiles: It enables you to save and load custom profiles, making it simple to move between display setups. This capability is particularly useful for multi-monitor configurations or users who regularly switch between different usage scenarios. 

Hotkey Support: The software includes hotkeys for swiftly switching between multiple resolutions and refresh rates, making it easy to change display settings on the go.

User Interface

It has a simple and minimalist user interface that focuses on utility rather than looks. The main window has an orderly layout, with tabs for managing display profiles, setting custom resolutions, and changing EDID. While the UI may appear sophisticated to new users, it provides rich documentation and tooltips to help users navigate the different choices and settings.

Installation and Setup

CRU installation is a basic affair. After downloading the software from the official website or Filesalad, the installation wizard walks you through the process, ensuring a smooth setup. Once installed, it effortlessly integrates with the system and is ready to use.

FAQ

Can Custom Resolution Utility - CRU damage my monitor? 
No, the app is intended to function within the limitations of your monitor. However, it is critical to use caution when adjusting timing parameters beyond the prescribed limitations. 

Are the custom resolutions generated by CRU compatible with all applications and games? 
While most applications and games should operate fine with custom resolutions, there may be certain cases where some programs do not support non-standard resolutions. Before making large modifications, it is recommended that you test compatibility. 

Can I change back to the default display settings after using CRU? 
Yes, you can restore the default settings or move between custom profiles, allowing for greater flexibility and easy restoration of previous sets. 

Does CRU support multiple monitor setups? 
Yes, it supports multi-monitor configurations, allowing you to choose unique resolutions and refresh rates for each connected display separately. 

Can I use CRU with any operating system? 
The application is primarily intended for Windows-based platforms. While it may work on other systems using compatibility layers or virtualization, it is designed for Windows environments.

System Requirements

• Requirements: Windows 7 or later, an Intel or AMD processor, and 512 MB RAM. 
• 10 megabytes of spare disk space.

PROS

• Allows users to generate custom resolutions and refresh rates beyond the usual ones. 
• Precise timing parameter control for maximum compatibility and stability 
• EDID administration enables extra resolution and refresh rate options. 
• Easy backup and restore of bespoke profiles. 
• Hotkey support for fast resolution switching

CONS

• The interface may appear technical to beginner users. 
• Modifying timing parameters without consideration can cause display difficulties. 
• Certain applications may not fully support custom resolutions.

Conclusion

Custom Resolution Utility (CRU) is a powerful software that provides comprehensive display modification options for customers who want more control over their resolutions and refresh rates. Whether you're a gamer, a content maker, or just someone who appreciates individualized visual experiences, the app allows you to test the limits of your monitor's capabilities. 

While the software may require some technical knowledge, the thorough documentation and tooltips help users traverse the many settings. CRU is a powerful tool that improves your display experience with its range of functions, including the ability to unlock custom resolutions and refresh rates.

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