Basic question re video cards

[JohnAf]

Hi,
please help me understand video card vs monitor resolution.

I currently use an NVIDIA GeForce 6800 and a 20" Dell Ultrasharp monitor.

In the settings tab of display properties, the maximum resolution allowed is 1280X1024.

Is this the maximum possible output by this video card, or the maximum supported by the current monitor?

I'm trying to understand this since I'm considering upgrading my monitor (to a 26"NEC LCD2690WUXi or the 30" Dell) and am wondering if that'll mean I need a new video card too.
Thanks

 

[Harvey]

Go to your Display Properties settings:

Right click on an open place your desktop (not over an icon), click Settings > Properties > Advanced > Monitor.

Uncheck Hide modes that this monitor cannot display.

That will show you all available modes for your vid card.

nVidia's specs for the GF6 series spec display resolutions up to and including 2048 × 1536 at 85Hz.