It seems that ever since Windows 2000 arrived gamers with a Nvidia based card were stuck at low 60Hz refresh rates at all resolutions. For windows 2000 there have been several non Nvidia fixes such as the "Windows 2000 Refresh Rate Fix" by Sten Uusvali, and even the popular powerstrip offered gamers the much needed fix. However, things have changed as with Windows XP RC1, these fixes namely Sten's very popular one have become almost useless as they would not run (unless in compatibility mode) on Windows XP.

Thankfully, there is still hope and we don't need to wait for Sten or even Nvidia to fix this problem as we can fix it ourselves. There is a small setting deep within the Windows XP registry that can fix this problem quickly and easily, that is if you know where to find it. This fix can be used with *almost* any version of Nvidia's drivers that you are having problems with, and any model of graphics card.

Ok, so what do I do?

Please remember that we are not responsible for any damage that you cause to your computer and that you should always keep a backup of your registry before proceeding. First once you have the Nvidia drivers installed (preferably the newest version 12.41). Second you will need to launch regedit which can be accomplished by going to Start > Run > then typing regedit. This fix is for OpenGL, an extremely simple fix for Direct 3D would be to enter the DirectX diagnostic tool > choose the "More Help" tab > override > then enter your desired minimum refresh rate.

Ok, now that we're in regedit you will need to navigate to certain keys by following these steps:

1. Double click on HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE
2. Open the "system" folder
3. Open the "CurrentControlSet" folder
4. Open the "Services" folder
5. Open the "nv4" folder
6. Open the "Device0" folder