How to Fix Hz Out of Range

The "Hz Out of Range" error is a common issue faced by many computer users, especially when connecting their PCs to an external monitor or TV. This message typically appears during startup or when adjusting display settings, indicating a mismatch between the graphics card's output frequency and the monitor's supported refresh rates. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to resolve this problem. In this guide, we'll explore step-by-step solutions to fix the "Hz Out of Range" error and restore your display to normal operation.

How to Fix Hz Out of Range

Understanding the "Hz Out of Range" Error

The "Hz Out of Range" message is generated when your monitor cannot display the current refresh rate set by your computer. Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), determines how many times per second the display updates. If the rate exceeds what your monitor supports, the monitor cannot synchronize with the graphics card, resulting in this error.

This issue may occur due to:

• Incorrect display settings after changing resolution or refresh rate
• Driver updates or conflicts
• Faulty or incompatible graphics hardware
• Using an unsupported resolution or refresh rate combination

To fix this problem, you need to revert the display settings to a supported configuration or update your drivers. Below are the most effective methods.

Method 1: Boot into Safe Mode

Safe Mode loads Windows with minimal drivers and default settings, making it easier to change display configurations that cause errors. Here's how to boot into Safe Mode:

1. Restart your computer.
2. During startup, press the F8 key repeatedly (on some systems, it might be Shift + F8 or another key) before Windows loads.
3. From the Advanced Boot Options menu, select "Safe Mode" and press Enter.
4. Once in Safe Mode, your display should default to a basic resolution and refresh rate.

In Safe Mode, you can now adjust your display settings safely to resolve the "Hz Out of Range" issue.

Method 2: Reset Display Settings to Default

Once in Safe Mode, follow these steps to reset your display settings:

• Right-click on the desktop and select "Display settings" (Windows 10/11) or "Screen resolution".
• Click on "Advanced display settings".
• Choose your display device, then click on "Display adapter properties".
• Navigate to the "Adapter" tab, then click "List All Modes".
• Select a resolution and refresh rate combination supported by your monitor (commonly 1920x1080 at 60Hz).
• Click "OK" to apply the settings and restart your computer normally.

If you cannot access settings normally, you can also modify configuration files or use display driver tools to reset to safe defaults.

Method 3: Use Display Driver Uninstallation and Reinstallation

Corrupted or incompatible drivers can cause display errors. Reinstalling drivers can often fix the problem:

1. Boot into Safe Mode (see previous method).
2. Open Device Manager by pressing Windows key + X and selecting "Device Manager".
3. Expand "Display adapters".
4. Right-click your graphics card and select "Uninstall device".
5. Check "Delete the driver software for this device" if available, then click "Uninstall".
6. Restart your computer, and Windows will attempt to reinstall generic drivers automatically.
7. Alternatively, visit the manufacturer's website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download and install the latest drivers manually.

This process ensures that your display drivers are clean and up to date, reducing the likelihood of errors related to display settings.

Method 4: Adjust Refresh Rate via Display Settings in Safe Mode

If your display is working in Safe Mode, you can manually set a supported refresh rate:

• Navigate to "Display settings" > "Advanced display settings".
• Select your monitor, then click "Display adapter properties".
• Go to the "Monitor" tab.
• In the "Monitor Settings" section, choose a refresh rate supported by your monitor (typically 60Hz).
• Click "Apply" then "OK".
• Restart your computer normally to see if the error is resolved.

Method 5: Use Windows Recovery or System Restore

If the error started after recent changes, restoring your system to a previous restore point can fix the issue:

1. Boot into Safe Mode (see earlier steps).
2. Press Windows key + R, type "rstrui.exe", and press Enter to open System Restore.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to select a restore point before the problem occurred.
4. Complete the restoration process and restart your PC normally.

This can undo recent configuration changes that caused the "Hz Out of Range" error.

Method 6: Check Hardware Connections and Compatibility

Sometimes, the problem is hardware-related:

• Ensure all cables connecting your monitor and graphics card are secure and undamaged.
• Test with a different monitor or cable to rule out faulty hardware.
• Verify that your monitor supports the resolution and refresh rate you are trying to set.
• If using a graphics card that is incompatible or outdated, consider upgrading or replacing it.

Hardware issues can cause the display to malfunction, resulting in "Hz Out of Range" errors.

Additional Tips and Precautions

• Always set your display to a supported resolution and refresh rate, especially after updating drivers.
• Consult your monitor's manual or manufacturer's website for supported display modes.
• Keep your graphics drivers updated to prevent compatibility issues.
• Use the Windows "Troubleshoot" feature if available, to identify and fix display problems.
• Regularly back up your system to prevent data loss during troubleshooting.

Summary of Key Points

Experiencing the "Hz Out of Range" error can be frustrating, but with a systematic approach, it can be resolved effectively. The key steps include booting into Safe Mode to reset display settings, updating or reinstalling graphics drivers, adjusting refresh rates to supported values, and checking hardware connections. Remember to always use supported resolution and refresh rate combinations for your monitor. If issues persist, consulting your monitor's specifications or seeking professional help may be necessary. By following these methods, you can restore your display to normal operation and prevent future occurrences of this error.