(SOLVED) NVIDIA Driver Installation Confusion

I kindly request guidance in relation to installing the correct NVIDIA driver suitable for my operating system. During my research I read somewhere that the use of "Additional Drivers" may not always bring the desired result.
I came across so many methods and am now truly confused which one to apply.
If special authorization (permission) is required to complete certain task please advise on this also, I am most definitely no computer whiz - please help me.

Details of my system:-
Zorin OS 6.2 64-bit
Memory: 3.3 GiB
Processor: Intel Core 2Duo CPU E6550 @ 2.33GHz x 2

karl@karl-System-Product-Name:~$ sudo lspci | grep -i vga
[sudo] password for karl:
04:00.0 VGA compatible controller: NVIDIA Corporation GT218 [GeForce 210] (rev a2)

karl@karl-System-Product-Name:~$ uname -a
Linux karl-System-Product-Name 3.2.0-41-generic #66-Ubuntu SMP Thu Apr 25 03:27:11 UTC 2013 x86_64 x86_64 x86_64 GNU/Linux

karl@karl-System-Product-Name:~$ lspci
00:00.0 Host bridge: Intel Corporation 82945G/GZ/P/PL Memory Controller Hub (rev 02)
00:01.0 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation 82945G/GZ/P/PL PCI Express Root Port (rev 02)
00:1b.0 Audio device: Intel Corporation N10/ICH 7 Family High Definition Audio Controller (rev 01)
00:1c.0 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation N10/ICH 7 Family PCI Express Port 1 (rev 01)
00:1c.1 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation N10/ICH 7 Family PCI Express Port 2 (rev 01)
00:1d.0 USB controller: Intel Corporation N10/ICH 7 Family USB UHCI Controller #1 (rev 01)
00:1d.1 USB controller: Intel Corporation N10/ICH 7 Family USB UHCI Controller #2 (rev 01)
00:1d.2 USB controller: Intel Corporation N10/ICH 7 Family USB UHCI Controller #3 (rev 01)
00:1d.3 USB controller: Intel Corporation N10/ICH 7 Family USB UHCI Controller #4 (rev 01)
00:1d.7 USB controller: Intel Corporation N10/ICH 7 Family USB2 EHCI Controller (rev 01)
00:1e.0 PCI bridge: Intel Corporation 82801 PCI Bridge (rev e1)
00:1f.0 ISA bridge: Intel Corporation 82801GB/GR (ICH7 Family) LPC Interface Bridge (rev 01)
00:1f.1 IDE interface: Intel Corporation 82801G (ICH7 Family) IDE Controller (rev 01)
00:1f.2 IDE interface: Intel Corporation N10/ICH7 Family SATA Controller [IDE mode] (rev 01)
00:1f.3 SMBus: Intel Corporation N10/ICH 7 Family SMBus Controller (rev 01)
01:01.0 Communication controller: Conexant Systems, Inc. HSF 56k HSFi Modem (rev 01)
02:00.0 Ethernet controller: Atheros Communications Inc. L2 Fast Ethernet (rev a0)
04:00.0 VGA compatible controller: NVIDIA Corporation GT218 [GeForce 210] (rev a2)
04:00.1 Audio device: NVIDIA Corporation High Definition Audio Controller (rev a1)

karl@karl-System-Product-Name:~$ /usr/lib/nux/unity_support_test -p
OpenGL vendor string: nouveau
OpenGL renderer string: Gallium 0.4 on NVA8
OpenGL version string: 2.1 Mesa 8.0.4
Not software rendered: yes
Not blacklisted: yes
GLX fbconfig: yes
GLX texture from pixmap: yes
GL npot or rect textures: yes
GL vertex program: yes
GL fragment program: yes
GL vertex buffer object: yes
GL framebuffer object: yes
GL version is 1.4+: yes
Unity 3D supported: yes
===
Many thanks in advance,

[Last edited 23.5.2013 by swarfendor437 as fundamentally, it does not appear to be [SOLVED] ]

Hi,

use the PPA from this link:

viewtopic.php?f=5&t=2490

Regards Wolfman

Thanks for responding, Wolfman.

I followed your advice to the letter!

My main reason for installing the NVIDIA driver is because of bad eye-sight (I am not a gamer). I am using a 32" LCD TV as a monitor and require a monitor custom resolution of 1366x768 for optimal display but 1360x768 is adequate.

After completion of installation and rebooting the system, I was expecting a NVIDIA configuration window/panel. But I cannot find this window/panel icon anywhere in the Zorin Menu (I searched every available item displayed in the Zorin Menu).

When clicking on the 'Administration' icon the entire menu panel turns completely blank/white (no icons displayed).

In 'Startup Application Preference' Additional startup programs: 'NVIDIA X Server Settings - Configure NVIDIA X Server' is shown and its checkbox is ticked.

In 'System Tools' ==> 'Preferemces' ==> 'Main Menu' ==> 'System Tools' ==> 'Administration' the NVIDIA X Server Settings is shown and its checkbox ticked.

I installed the package "sysinfo" and the NVIDIA X Server Settings is shown and its checkbox ticked.

I performed:
sudo apt-get update
and
sudo apt-get dist-upgrade

I rebooted several times and opened the NVIDIA X Server Settings using 'Sysinfo' application. I was able to set the monitor resolution to 1360x768 and require assistance how to save this setting to the X Configuration File - I tried but there is no existing file listed.
I also require assistance how to proceed in selecting the X configuration file.

The 'Preview' displays the following information:-
# nvidia-settings: X configuration file generated by nvidia-settings
# nvidia-settings: version 304.88 (buildd@allspice) Tue Apr 9 12:16:11 UTC 2013
Section "ServerLayout"
Identifier "Layout0"
Screen 0 "Screen0" 0 0
InputDevice "Keyboard0" "CoreKeyboard"
InputDevice "Mouse0" "CorePointer"
Option "Xinerama" "0"
EndSection
Section "Files"
EndSection
Section "InputDevice"
# generated from default
Identifier "Mouse0"
Driver "mouse"
Option "Protocol" "auto"
Option "Device" "/dev/psaux"
Option "Emulate3Buttons" "no"
Option "ZAxisMapping" "4 5"
EndSection
Section "InputDevice"
# generated from default
Identifier "Keyboard0"
Driver "kbd"
EndSection
Section "Monitor"
# HorizSync source: builtin, VertRefresh source: builtin
Identifier "Monitor0"
VendorName "Unknown"
ModelName "CRT-1"
HorizSync 28.0 - 55.0
VertRefresh 43.0 - 72.0
Option "DPMS"
EndSection
Section "Device"
Identifier "Device0"
Driver "nvidia"
VendorName "NVIDIA Corporation"
BoardName "GeForce 210"
EndSection
Section "Screen"
Identifier "Screen0"
Device "Device0"
Monitor "Monitor0"
DefaultDepth 24
Option "Stereo" "0"
Option "nvidiaXineramaInfoOrder" "CRT-1"
Option "metamodes" "1360x768 +0+0; nvidia-auto-select +0+0"
SubSection "Display"
Depth 24
EndSubSection
EndSection

I checked the monitor resolution in 'Displays' and it was set to 1360x768 (16:9).

All seems okay for now but need additional assistance on how to reinstate all the Icons displayed under the 'Administration' icon in the Zorin Menu.

Now, as I was going to post the above message the entire system crashed - black monitor screen - no display whatsoever.

I manually rebooted and a very lengthy error message popped up "the display settings could not be saved" (the content could not be copied or saved).

Also, in the bottom panel a round red icon with a with a horizontal white bar appeared which disappeared after I performed an update.

I 'Displays' the monitor resolution is back to 1680x1959 (16:10) and setting 1360x768 is not offered in drop-down menu.

The icons in Zorin Menu under 'Administration' are still missing.

Opening the NVIDIA X Server Settings in Sysinfo: The resolution is set to Auto and the drop-down menu does not offer resolution 1360x768.

Sorry for throwing a curve ball; I wish I could report better news!

Hi,

restart your PC and run "DPKG" in Recovery mode using a network cable, see this guide about updating:

viewtopic.php?f=5&t=2247

I have just updated the Nvidia thread so you might want to read it again, let us know if this helps.

I will get back to you on the Nvidia settings thing later; I have to go out now!!. (Or anybody else can help!!)

Regards Wolfman

Hi,

for "xorg" info, see this guide and the part "Prepare Configuration Files".

https://help.ubuntu.com/community/NvidiaManual

I hope it helps you further, please do what I said about a restart and run "DPKG" in the revised Nvidia guide!!.

See also:

http://wiki.debian.org/NvidiaGraphicsDrivers

Regards Wolfman

Wolfman wrote:Hi,
restart your PC and run "DPKG" in Recovery mode using a network cable, see this guide about updating:
viewtopic.php?f=5&t=2247
I have just updated the Nvidia thread so you might want to read it again, let us know if this helps.

Since installing the NVIDIA driver the splash screen (the blue one with "Z" in the centre and 2 counter rotating wheels) has disappeared. When restarting the PC the splash screen is pitch black displaying dark/light blue and white running bars on the bottom of the screen. As soon as the running bars stop the log-in screen appears requesting for my password... I can not find reference on how to start in Recovery Mode.
I request assistance on how to start in Recovery Mode and on reinstating the Zorin splash screen.

I will get back to you on the Nvidia settings thing later; I have to go out now!!. (Or anybody else can help!!)

I edited my Software Sources Settings in update manager and synaptic package manager and performed another sudo apt-get update and sudo apt-get dist-upgrade.

However all icons under 'Administration' are still missing.

I decided to change the Zorin Menu from Windows7 to Windows XP desktop look. Strangely, under 'Administration' the NVIDIA X Server Settings icon is shown as are Network Tools, GParted and Firewall Configuration icons.

I request assistance on reinstating the 'Administration' icons in Windows7 desktop look.

It seems that the monitor setting (1360x768) has stabilized but the setting still cannot be saved/merged to the NVIDIA X Server Settings X Configuration File since there is no existing file shown. This may correct itself after I do the start-up in Recovery Mode.

Interesting to note that one item of 'Preview' display' has changed from:
[Option "metamodes" "1360x768 +0+0; nvidia-auto-select +0+0"] to
[Option "metamodes" "1360x768 +0+0"]

I would have thought that with all the updating/upgrading performed that the installed Zorin OS 6.2 would upgrade to 6.3. However the General system information shows only "Release Zorin 6 (precise) and confirmed by:
karl@karl-System-Product-Name:~$ cat /etc/lsb-release
DISTRIB_ID=Zorin
DISTRIB_RELEASE=6
DISTRIB_CODENAME=precise
DISTRIB_DESCRIPTION="Zorin OS 6"

How can I determine which version of Zorin OS is installed?
Cheers... Karl.

Hi,

to boot into recovery mode; start your PC and select the line ending with '(recovery mode)', probably the second line, something like:

Ubuntu, kernel 3.2.00-41-generic (recovery mode)

and then (once it has booted into recovery mode) select "Network" (cable connection only!) then after you done that, select "DPKG", once that is done and you are taken back to the recovery menu, restart with Ctrl + Alt + Del.

Right click on the Zorin start Menu and on Edit > System Tools > Administration (to stop the menu blanking) and take the tick out of "Nvidia X server settings", once done, open your home folder > File > usr > share > application > NVIDIA X Settings, once Nvidia Settings Manager is running; you can make your changes. I cannot find out where the icon for Nvidia is and that is why I have taken this route!!.

To find out what version you have installed, enter this command in a terminal:

lsb_release -a

or:

cat /etc/issue

The above command(s) will only give you basic info about the base system installed, nothing related to updates etc!!.

You can also try opening System Settings > System > Details > Overview and look there!.

Also; you can install "Sysinfo" with the following command, which you will find under System Settings in the main menu once installed:

sudo apt-get install sysinfo

Let us know if this solves your problem(s)!!.

Regards Wolfman

Wolfman wrote:Hi,
to boot into recovery mode; start your PC and select the line ending with '(recovery mode)', probably the second line, something like:
Ubuntu, kernel 3.2.00-41-generic (recovery mode)
and then (once it has booted into recovery mode) select "Network" (cable connection only!) then after you done that, select "DPKG", once that is done and you are taken back to the recovery menu, restart with Ctrl + Alt + Del.

Done, completed and nailed down as instructed. The screen resolution (1360x768) appears to be stable. But I still am not able saving or merging the setting to the NVIDIA X Server Settings X Configuration File because there is no existing file shown. When clicking onto the 'Browse...' button there are 4 Files to choose from viz: 'monitor.xml' - 'Trolltech.conf' - 'user-dirs.dirs' and 'user-dirs.locale'. Would you know which is the right one to select (the first one seems obvious to me) or, should I leave things as they are and worry about later if the monitor resolution setting play up again?

Right click on the Zorin start Menu and on Edit > System Tools > Administration (to stop the menu blanking) and take the tick out of "Nvidia X server settings", once done, open your home folder > File > usr > share > application > NVIDIA X Settings, once Nvidia Settings Manager is running; you can make your changes. I cannot find out where the icon for Nvidia is and that is why I have taken this route!!.

Re: Zorin Menu - Windows 7.
There are no icons visible (blank panel) when clicking onto the 'Administration' icon.
Edit > System Tools > Administration - there are 9 items listed in the panel viz: Firewall Configuration, GParted Partition Editor, Network Tools, NVIDIA X Server Settings, Synaptic Package Manager, System Testing, Ubuntu Software Centre, Update Manager and Window Wireless Drivers. All checkboxes are ticked.
Once the tick of "Nvidia X Server settings" is removed in the Main Menu, closing the Main Menu and clicking onto the 'Administration' icon there are now 7 icons visible in the panel, the Ubuntu Software Centre icon is missing also.

Re: Zorin Menu - Windows XP (all icon check boxes are ticked).
There are 4 icons visible when mousing over the 'Administration' icon viz: Firewall Configuration, GParted Partition Editor, Network Tools and NVIDIA X Server Settings although 9 items are listed and check boxes ticked in the Main Menu.

Re: Zorin Menu - Gnome 2 (all icon check boxes are ticked).
All 9 icons visible when mousing over the 'Administration' icon.
No problems here!

Note: With the exception of "Sysinfo" the propriety icon for the NVIDIA driver is not displayed in any of the 3 desktop settings.

There seem to be issues with the Windows 7 and Windows XP desktop looks and would be happy providing additional information if you wish me to do so. In the meantime I am happy to use the Gnome 2 desktop look.

To find out what version you have installed, enter this command in a terminal:
lsb_release -a
or:
cat /etc/issue
The above command(s) will only give you basic info about the base system installed, nothing related to updates etc!!.
You can also try opening System Settings > System > Details > Overview and look there!.
Also; you can install "Sysinfo" with the following command, which you will find under System Settings in the main menu once installed:
sudo apt-get install sysinfo

I did all this which confirmed that Zorin OS 6 is installed.
So, there is no way checking if my original installed version 6.2 is now 6.3?

Thanks again for your assistance.
Cheers... Karl.

swarfendor437 wrote:Just to add, this is a known 'nVidia' issue and it affects other 'splash screens' on other 'buntu based distros - at home what happens if you install the proprietary driver is the monitor goes into 'power save mode' then comes back to life with the login screen.

So, there is no 'tweak' available to apply replacing the "running-bar" splash screen?

I much prefer the GNU/Linux drivers but appreciate I don't have a recent card!

Well, since I am not a gamer I would prefer the GNU/Linux drivers also as the installation of NVIDIA drivers to Linux distros/OSs causing me considerable headache. I really wonder why the developer of GNU/Linux drivers couldn't include some more monitor settings, it couldn't be that difficult to do... I understand that 1360x768 is quite common and popular.
I never experienced any problems with NVIDIA in Windows XP, it even allows me to customize the monitor setting to 1366x768. But since the support for WinXP is going to cease in April 2014 I am looking for a suitable Linux replacement.

Cheers... Karl.

H Karl,

you don't have to install the Nvidia drivers if you don't want to, the only reason to install them really is if you want full 3D support, that is assuming your card has 3D.

A quick way to call up Nvidia settings is with the terminal if you need to do so, I have never touched any settings with my Nvidia card!!.

sudo nvidia-settings

Read the help tips on each of the pages if you want info about what things do!!.

Running in "Gnome Look" is okay if you are happy!!.

To check your monitor, you can look in System Settings > Hardware > Displays, this which allow you to adjust your monitor within limited parameters!!.

To edit what shows in the main menu, simply right click the Start Button > Edit > and you can add or edit the menu's to your hearts content!!.

I hope you are sorted for now.

Let us know if you have any questions.

Regards Wolfman

Hi Karl,

can we mark this as solved??.

Regards Wolfman

swarfendor437 wrote:When you say running bar is it like dark blue (well mid-blue) pale blue, and white? (Just like Microsoft Windows NT in slow boot mode!) then this is no detriment to the OS (I have not got round to updating the youngest's rig that has Zorin OS 4 64-bit which is what it does with an nVidia 7100 GS (258 Mb) AGP card!
What you need to understand is that nVidia is a 'proprietary' card and only they can write the drivers for it!

I removed Zorin OS 6.2, downloaded Zorin OS 6.3 and installed it. After following the update instructions by Wolfman, I downloaded/installed NVIDIA as per edited instruction by Wolfman also.

The running bar has disappeared and the Zorin splash screen somehow reinstated itself. NVIDIA is now working as well.

(It would be nice if the developers of Zorin could come up with a progam (code) to determine the version (after the decimal point) installed).

Wolfman wrote:H Karl,
you don't have to install the Nvidia drivers if you don't want to, the only reason to install them really is if you want full 3D support, that is assuming your card has 3D.
To check your monitor, you can look in System Settings > Hardware > Displays, this which allow you to adjust your monitor within limited parameters!!.

As mentioned in one of my previous posts, because of poor eyesight I need to have a monitor resolution of ideally 1366x768 on my 32" LCD TV monitor but 1360x768 is adequate.

A quick way to call up Nvidia settings is with the terminal if you need to do so, I have never touched any settings with my Nvidia card!!.
sudo nvidia-settings
Read the help tips on each of the pages if you want info about what things do!!.

Thanks.

Running in "Gnome Look" is okay if you are happy!!.

I am happy with any of the "Looks". I would have thought that the all three looks would perform equally...

I hope you are sorted for now.

Yes, after removing 6.2 and installing 6.3 all is okay as far as NVIDIA is concerned, the desktop look option may resolve itself after next upgrade.
Cheers... Karl.

Wolfman wrote:Hi Karl,
can we mark this as solved??.
Regards Wolfman

Yes, after removing 6.2 and downloading/installing 6.3 using your updating/upgrading instruction the system appears to be more stable. The new installation of NVIDIA also went well after using your suggested (edited) update/upgrade instructions. You may wish to add that the file has to be saved in /etc/X11/xorg.conf which is not obvious after installation.
Cheers... Karl.

Hi Karl,

I have marked as solved but am a little confused about your remarks about the X11 files as the Nvidia installer should do that automatically for you, or do you mean if you make any changes using the Nvidia Settings Tool?.

Regards Wolfman

Wolfman wrote:Hi Karl,
I have marked as solved but am a little confused about your remarks about the X11 files as the Nvidia installer should do that automatically for you, or do you mean if you make any changes using the Nvidia Settings Tool?.
Regards Wolfman

Okay Wildman, here is my experience with NVIDIA in chronological sequence (I had most of this mentioned in previous posts). Please read slowly!

After downloading, installing rebooting and updating (according to your edited instructions) in 'NVIDIA X Server Settings' ==> 'X Server Display Configuration' I changed the Resolution setting to 1360x768.

I then clicked onto the 'Save to X Configuration' button.

In the 'Save X Configuration' window the rectangular 'file box' was empty (did not contain any file name) and the 'Merge with existing file' checkbox was not ticked.

When clicking onto the 'Browse...' button there were only 4 Files to choose from viz: 'monitor.xml' - 'Trolltech.conf' - 'user-dirs.dirs' and 'user-dirs.locale', no other files or folders were displayed.

I chose 'monitor.xml', rebooted the system and discovered that the monitor resolution had changed.

I reopened 'NVIDIA X Server Settings' ==> 'X Server Display Configuration' revealed monitor resolution had changed to 'Auto' (1680x1050).

I tried to change the resolution but the NVIDIA settings did not respond in any way - the monitor screen dimmed somewhat and NVIDIA closed itself.

I then went to 'System Settings' ==> 'Displays' and was able to change back the monitor resolution setting to 1360x768 (16:9).

I then reopened 'NVIDIA X Server Settings' ==> 'X Server Display Configuration' in which resolution setting 1360x768 was "magically" displayed.

I then clicked onto the 'Save to X Configuration' button.

A window popped-up 'Layout Inconsistencie(s)' stating "The current layout has some inconsistencies".

I clicked then on the 'Auto Fix' button' and another window popped-up 'Save X Configuration' - the rectangular 'file box' now contained '/etc/X11/xorg.conf' and the 'Merge with existing file' checkbox was ticked.

I clicked onto the 'Save' button and a new window popped-up 'Authenticate' - I entered my Password and clicked the 'Authenticate' button.

I cross finger and balls that the monitor resolution setting 1366x768 will now 'stick' once and for all!

Hi Karl,

thanks for the explanation, I have never had to do any of the above but it is worth noting for other users, I will look later at the Nvidia site for some info.

And I read it as slowly as I could Karl; honest!!. Lol!

Regards Wolfman

The saga continues...

Just fired up Zorin; The screen resolution had changed again to 'Auto' (1680x1050)!

The monitor setting 1360x768 weren't even displayed anymore in both 'NVIDIA X Server Display Configuration' and 'Displays'. Hitting the the 'Detect Display' buttons didn't produce anything positive either - swell!

I found a possible solution to my monitor resolution problem in <http://www.kubuntuforums.net/archive/index.php/t-61451.html> and did this in 'NVIDIA X Server Display Configuration' | 'Save X Configuration' ==> clicked 'Show preview...' and changed:

'Option "metamodes" "1152x864_60 +0+0; nvidia-auto-select +0+0"
To:
Option "metamodes" "1360x768_60 +0+0; nvidia-auto-select +0+0"
and closed the preview window.

I had to authenticate this change - password etc..

(Note: I wish I knew what or how the 'Option' setting in 'preview' changed from 1360x768 to Auto.)

I then opened Terminal and entered: "cvt 1360 768 60" (without the quotation quotes)
and after completion closed the terminal.

I then rebooted and the Zorin splash-screen with the counter rotating wheels was shown.

The log-in screen briefly showed the colour Zorin blue but changed after a few seconds to black though I was still able to log in.

The screen resolution is now back to 1360x768 and the 'NVIDIA X Server Display Configuration' is showing now a wide range of additional monitor resolution options.

I checked in 'Displays' and found that the resolution setting had not changed and the drop-down menu still didn't offer setting 1360x768. I was able to rectify this by hitting the 'Detect Display' button a few times.

I hope that this is the end of it because I haven't got anything else to 'cross' anymore!
Cheers... Karl.

Hi Karl,

according to this page:

http://manpages.ubuntu.com/manpages/nat ... ngs.1.html

Nvidia doesn't retain the settings and you need to create a file per user, see the section "User Gude point 3" and it should help you solve the problem.

Hope it helps.

Regards Wolfman

Wolfman wrote:Hi Karl,
according to this page:
http://manpages.ubuntu.com/manpages/nat ... ngs.1.html

Whooosh - this went right over my head!

Nvidia doesn't retain the settings and you need to create a file per user, see the section "User Gude point 3" and it should help you solve the problem.

Thanks for the link, Wildman.

Hope it helps.

Unfortunately it didn't.

These instructions are for experts!

I wrote on Wed May 15, 2013 12:27 am
"I kindly request guidance... I am most definitely no computer whiz - please help me."

Anyway, the monitor resolution had reset itself to 'Auto'.

I made another attempt to fix this (do I demonstrate perseverance or what!).

I pasted again "metamodes" "1360x768_60 +0+0; nvidia-auto-select +0+0" to X Configuration File but this time I removed the tick in check-box beside 'Merge with existing file.'

====
# nvidia-settings: X configuration file generated by nvidia-settings
# nvidia-settings: version 304.88 (buildd@allspice) Tue Apr 9 12:16:11 UTC 2013

Section "ServerLayout"
Identifier "Layout0"
Screen 0 "Screen0" 0 0
InputDevice "Keyboard0" "CoreKeyboard"
InputDevice "Mouse0" "CorePointer"
Option "Xinerama" "0"
EndSection

Section "Files"
EndSection

Section "InputDevice"

# generated from default
Identifier "Mouse0"
Driver "mouse"
Option "Protocol" "auto"
Option "Device" "/dev/psaux"
Option "Emulate3Buttons" "no"
Option "ZAxisMapping" "4 5"
EndSection

Section "InputDevice"

# generated from default
Identifier "Keyboard0"
Driver "kbd"
EndSection

Section "Monitor"

# HorizSync source: edid, VertRefresh source: edid
Identifier "Monitor0"
VendorName "Unknown"
ModelName "CRT-1"
HorizSync 30.0 - 83.0
VertRefresh 56.0 - 76.0
Option "DPMS"
EndSection

Section "Device"
Identifier "Device0"
Driver "nvidia"
VendorName "NVIDIA Corporation"
BoardName "GeForce 210"
EndSection

Section "Screen"

# Removed Option "metamodes" "1360x768 +0+0; nvidia-auto-select +0+0"
Identifier "Screen0"
Device "Device0"
Monitor "Monitor0"
DefaultDepth 24
Option "Stereo" "0"
Option "nvidiaXineramaInfoOrder" "CRT-1"
Option "metamodes" "1360x768 +0+0"
SubSection "Display"
Depth 24
EndSubSection
EndSection
====

As you can see Option "metamodes" "1360x768 +0+0; nvidia-auto-select +0+0" was again removed and changed to:
Option "metamodes" "1360x768 +0+0"

I rebooted a few times and all seems okay now - but I think it was too premature marking this thread as 'Solved' IMO.
Cheers... Karl.

Hi Karl,

like I told you, I have never used the Nvidia settings manager and I really don't have much of a clue about it, my graphics settings are set on boot (I assume) and have no need to change them, I appreciate that you have a problem with your eyesight as do I; sadly I can be of little or no more assistance to you as I am not an expert in this matter, maybe one of the other forum members can shed some light on the problem, if you would like; I will remove the solved comment or you can edit it yourself if you wish.

When I have more time, I will of course try and help resolve the issue.

Whilst here though, did you check out this section of the link I posted?:

After you have run nvidia-settings once and have generated a
configuration file, you can then run:

nvidia-settings --load-config-only

at any time in the future to upload these settings to the X server
again. For example, you might place the above command in your
~/.xinitrc file so that your settings are applied automatically when
you log in to X.

Your .xinitrc file, which controls what X applications should be
started when you log into X (or startx), might look something like
this:

nvidia-settings --load-config-only &
xterm &
evilwm

or:

nvidia-settings --load-config-only &
gnome-session

I will try this on my Nvidia rig later and get back to you should I find out how to do it myself, as you said; "This is for experts" and when I find one; I will let you know!!. Lol!!

Regards Wolfman

Hi Wildman,
Thanks for your researches, detailed response and patience!

Things have gotten worse - I lost my patience and removed NVIDIA. Unfortunately the 'Zorin splashscreen' disappeared during the NVIDIA removal process and hope it will somehow reinstate itself. The Zorin log-out screen is still operating ok.

Re: 'Zorin Look Changer'.
All but one (1) icon have reinstated themselves. In Windows 7 the 'Software icon' is still missing.

I previously installed Grub Costumizer 3.0.4 which opened with little delay prior the NVIDIA fiasco, now, when clicking onto the icon there is either a delay of about 5 -6 minutes or no response at all.

It's a shame, I quite like Zorin OS (it's grown on me - so to speak). If things don't improve I am going to remove Zorin and re-install one more time and try the 'Additional Drivers' option (I don't give up easy).

I have one more final question in relation to monitor resolutions.
In 'System Settings' ==> 'Displays' there are only 5 settings available. Since setting 1360x768 is not one of them wouldn't it be possible persuading the authors of this particular software adding this popular resolution setting? This couldn't be too difficult to do, could it?

As Microsoft will discontinue supporting WinXP April next year I should have plenty of time sorting things out. I'll let you know of the outcome.

Thanks again!
Cheers... Karl.

Hi Karl,

with regard to AWN (Avant Window Manager) in Win7 look, all you need to do is right click the panel > dock preferences > applets then add (or make sure) that the following applets are showing in the bottom section window (Active Applets), you should take it slow as some of the applets have similar names:

Zorin Menu ...Seperator...DockBarX...Expander...Seperator...Indicator 3 Applet



I advise you to install the full packages for the applets for AWN with this command:

sudo apt-get install awn-applets-all

should you want extra applets.


You can move the applets around in the window by simply clicking on them with a right mouse click and drag them to the desired position in the Active Applets window!!.

In case you haven't done it, I recommend (read my Zorin 6 post install guide) adding another panel and set it to "Intellihide" just in case you have further problems with the bottom panel.

To help with your boot problem, restart your PC in recovery mode and run "DPKG" per this guide viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2247 and see if that will help you!.

I haven't tried out the Nvidia thing yet as I have been busy testing Zorin 7 RC, I will try it over the weekend I promise!!.

Here's what I have thus far:


With regard to your eyesight, have you thought about the size of the fonts scale you use??, I use 1.1 but you can increase it to any size you want, I also like to use a grey (gray to the Yanks) or dark theme like Blackbird or Gnomishgray/Gnomishdark.

Regards Wolfman

Wolfman wrote:Hi Karl,
with regard to AWN (Avant Window Manager) in Win7 look, all you need to do is right click the panel > dock preferences > applets then add (or make sure) that the following applets are showing in the bottom section window (Active Applets), you should take it slow as some of the applets have similar names:
Zorin Menu ...Seperator...DockBarX...Expander...Seperator...Indicator 3 Applet

Awn Settings_001.jpg

I advise you to install the full packages for the applets for AWN with this command:
sudo apt-get install awn-applets-all
should you want extra applets.
You can move the applets around in the window by simply clicking on them with a right mouse click and drag them to the desired position in the Active Applets window!!.

This worked, many thanks for this!!

In case you haven't done it, I recommend (read my Zorin 6 post install guide) adding another panel and set it to "Intellihide" just in case you have further problems with the bottom panel.

I am going to read this guide, thanks.

To help with your boot problem, restart your PC in recovery mode and run "DPKG" per this guide viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2247 and see if that will help you!.

I did that and don't think that the Grub Customizer issue is a boot problem per se. There are many 'complains' to be found in this regard on the Internet. I am not really worried about it - after the NVIDIA monitor resolution problem is fixed I just remove and re-install and take it from there.

I haven't tried out the Nvidia thing yet as I have been busy testing Zorin 7 RC, I will try it over the weekend I promise!!.

I haven't tried out the Nvidia thing yet as I have been busy testing Zorin 7 RC, I will try it over the weekend I promise!!.

Two points here:
1. My "final question was related to the default settings as shown in 'System Settings' ==> 'Displays' and NOT to NVIDIA.

2. I am (cautiously) optimistic that I finally found a solution to the NVIDIA resolution settings problem.

Here's what I have done thus far:
1.
I re-installed NVIDIA Driver Version: 304.88 as per instructions found here:
http://www.howopensource.com/2012/10/in ... using-ppa/

2.
sudo reboot
2a.) Restart PC in "Recovery Mode" and select "Network" and then run "DPKG" and after completion, restart PC with Ctrl + Alt + Del, don't click on "Resume". (viewtopic.php?f=6&t=2490)

4. Note:
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php? ... st12304338

(Ensure you are 'root' or the 'change' is authenticated using your password).

4. reboot

Here is what my 'Device' modification looks like:

Section "Device"
Identifier "Device0"
Driver "nvidia"
VendorName "NVIDIA Corporation"
BoardName "GeForce 210"
Option "ModeValidation" "AllowNonEdidModes"
EndSection

Sofar so good, after several reboots the resolution setting is sticking!
Wish me luck!

Here's what I have thus far:

Desktop_002.jpg

Looking good...

With regard to your eyesight, have you thought about the size of the fonts scale you use??, I use 1.1 but you can increase it to any size you want, I also like to use a grey (gray to the Yanks) or dark theme like Blackbird or Gnomishgray/Gnomishdark.

Yes, I have all done this, thanks. The correct resolution eliminates any distortions of photos, pictures, movies etc..
Many thanks again!
Cheers... Karl.

Hi Karl,

good tip on the other PPA, I added it to the Nvidia thread for Zorin OS 7 users!!.

As you seem to have everything in order now, I will skip messing around with the Nvidia Settings Manager unless you want me to!!.

Regards Wolfman

Wolfman wrote:Hi Karl,
good tip on the other PPA, I added it to the Nvidia thread for Zorin OS 7 users!!.

You may wish to consider adding the thread as posted by 'nerd65536' in ( http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php? ... st12304338 ) also.

As you seem to have everything in order now, I will skip messing around with the Nvidia Settings Manager unless you want me to!!.

Yes, adding ==> Option "ModeValidation" "AllowNonEdidModes" <== to Section "Device" fixed up the monitor resolution setting and ended my "NVIDIA Driver Installation Confusion". There is no need to investigate this any further.

Many thanks again for prompt educational responses and your patience!
Cheers... Karl.

Hi Karl,

I wouldn't say educational as you basically solved your own problem!!.

Glad everything is up and running, I will add the link you posted as it may well help someone else!, thanks.

Will now mark as solved!!.

Regards Wolfman

Hi Karl,

I forget all the time about this function, you can adjust some of the view settings for people with poor eyesight globally:

Open Systems Settings > System > Universal Access and make any adjustments you want to:



Regards Wolfman