My Gateway laptop -Windows 7- screen became too dark a few days ago after I finished installing Windows automatic update. I can see nothing unless I use a flashlight. Windows login screen is the only bright screen for few seconds. What should I do to resolve this issue?

I checked power-saving/ Power Options settings and rebooting in Safe Mode. I tried to lower the refresh rate but it did not allow me. The laptop adapter type is ATI Radeon Xpress series. I uninstalled and reinstalled the driver. And the driver is up to-date. Any help would be appreciated.