Configuration file info is in blue.

Terminal code is in red and you should be root to make changes.

Not root? Type su and enter your root password in terminal.

Here is a tip to open another session.

Press Control Alt 7 (I use mepis your miles may vary try different numbers if 7 doesn't work for you)

This is how I start from scratch to get a config file setup.

root@mepis# XFree86 -configure

You should see a grey test screen with X pointer.

Move the cursor around to test the mouse

If all went well press:

Control Alt and Backspace

To get back to prompt.

Then do:

root@mepis# cp XF86Config.new /etc/X11/XF86Config

An other option is this command.

root@mepis# dpkg-reconfigure xserver-xfree86

Please Google your monitors specs to make sure you know what it can handle!!

How I change my monitor resolution.

Edit /etc/X11/XF86Config-4 using vi if you're a unix geek or whatever editor you're comfortable with.

I like vi.

root@mepis# vi /etc/X11/XF86Config-4

I Added Load "ati" to my file because im using stock ati card

My monitor can handle HorizSync up to 90.

This is my monitor setup.

Changing the default Depth and Modes

DefaultColorDepth is usually 24 so check to see if yours is set for 24 by default and then scroll down and edit that line.

If you're using vi :wq to save your file and write the changes

Restart X to see your changes. Wanna see your current resolution? In a terminal type

xdpyinfo | less

Scroll down until you see your resolution. Hit q to quit less and get back to prompt.