1. I installed Slackware 12.0 on my laptop, and the resolution is 1280x800 and how can I deal with it? When I log onto KDE, and if I go to the display setting the maximum it allows me is 1024x768.

2. How can I try other desktop environments? When I turn my laptop and log onto linux from lilo, it gives me the command line and if I type in startx it will automatically start KDE. how can I try other desktop environments?


thanks

I believe in Slackware X uses a xorg.conf instead of Xfree86 the config file is located at /etc/X11/xorg.conf on my Slackware (12) so it should be the same for you, somewhere in the file is the screen resolution not sure where it been a while. As far as other desktop environments executing a "xwmconfig" (without quotes) should do the trick.

If you'd like a graphical screen to select window managers from type kdm instead of startx. I haven't any ideas why KDE gives you a max resolution of 1024x768. I think KDE uses it's own stuff to determine and set resolutions. To elaborate on KrazyKanuk's suggestion, in Xorg.conf you'll find a section describing the monitor and it's details. In that section will be a set of lines beginning with Mode and a list of resolutions. The first one listed is the default. If you want to change your resolution I recommend making a backup copy of Xorg.conf and simply editing the Mode line.

It's probable that you are using the in built and most basic version of your graphics card driver and that is why your screen is at that resolution. Go to your graphics card manufacturers site to download (hopefully) a Linux version of your graphics card driver. They will also provide installation instructions.

It could also be that your monitor is misreporting it's limitations. Open xorg.conf and post up the monitor section, also provide us with the make and model and we can advise on the settings. Or go to your monitor manufacturers site and pick up the settings from there.