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Common Monitor Problems

Noah Staum Avatar

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Updated Jun 27, 2022 11:11 PM

Some of the most common computer monitor problems include blank screens, the monitor not turning on, and images being displayed in the wrong size or blurry. This happens even if you have a high-end monitor for your Macbook Pro or PC. Luckily, there are several easy steps you can take to troubleshoot these and other issues that will generally solve the problem.

Key Takeaways:

  • The most common cause of monitor problems is in the connections.
  • Adjusting display settings can fix images appearing improperly.
  • Some monitors require software to function properly.

Troubleshooting Common Monitor Problems

1. Restart Monitor

Restarting your electronics is always the best place to start when troubleshooting a problem. If there is an issue with your favorite computer monitor, turn it off completely and then back on again. Most displays have a power indicator light that will light up when it is on. If this light does not turn on after pressing the on/off button, your display is either dead or is not receiving power. If your display does turn on but is still experiencing issues, go through the same reboot process with the computer you’re connecting it to.

Tip: Restarting your electronics is always the best place to start when troubleshooting a problem

Warning: If this light does not turn on after pressing the on/off button, your display is either dead or is not receiving power

2. Check Connections

The next step in fixing any screen and operational issues with your display is to check all of your connections. You want to make sure that the electrical cable and the computer connection cable are both securely in place. The easiest way to do this is to unplug the display from the power source and from the monitor completely. Do the same with the cord to the computer. Then, resecure both cords tightly in the correct input ports.

Tip: You want to make sure that the electrical cable and the computer connection cable are both securely in place

3. Inspect For Physical Damage

If problems persist, check the screen, wires, and inputs for any signs of physical damage. For the display, look for any cracks in the body of the monitor or the screen. When inspecting the cables, look for any crimps in the wire, cuts, or fraying. Check the corresponding inputs to make sure that they aren’t loose or damaged.

Consequently, if there’s physical damage present your warranty should cover it. If you don’t have one yet, you’ll need to decide if the Asurion Amazon protection plan is worth it.

4. Adjust Settings

If images on your display appear but are the wrong size or blurry, you should go into your computer’s display settings to make adjustments. If your desktop image is either too small or too big for the monitor size, adjust the display’s resolution settings until you get a clear picture that fits the full size of your display. Here, you can also make sure that the computer is properly recognizing the monitor.

Tip: If images on your display appear but are the wrong size or blurry, you should go into your computer’s display settings to make adjustments

5. Install Updates

Some monitors require a driver installed on your computer to function properly. In some cases, installing or updating your monitor’s driver could solve connection and picture issues. To find out more about your display’s driver and download the latest version, go to the manufacturer’s website for your monitor and search for your display model. The user manual that came included with the screen should have instructions on proper driver installation as well.

Warning: Some monitors require a driver installed on your computer to function properly

Sources:

https://www.wikihow.com/Repair-LCD-Monitors

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer_monitor

https://www.consumerreports.org/computer-monitors/how-to-choose-a-computer-monitor/

*https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rgXBl30srk

https://store.hp.com/us/en/tech-takes/top-3-ways-computer-screen-repair

How to Fix Monitor Display Problems FAQ

How do I connect a monitor to a PC?

Most modern monitors have two cable connections: one for power and another that connects to your computer. Plug the power cord into a reliable power source like a surge protector. Then, identify the correct input port for the video cable. This will likely be an HDMI port or, on older models, a VGA port.

What would cause a computer monitor to not work?

The most common problem people have with their computer screens is with the connection. Always test that all cords and display cables are securely in place. Also, make sure that they are in the correct input. Always check cables for damage. Beyond that, a screen display could be experiencing issues from improper settings, damage, missing device drivers, or problems with internal components. It’s best to keep monitors in an environment with a humidity level between 35 and 50%.

What do I do if my monitor works well for a few minutes and then powers off?

This could be a cable issue or an internal issue with the monitor. Test the monitor with a different cable if possible to isolate the issue. If you determine that the cable is not the issue, then you’ll likely need to repair or replace the actual monitor.

What do I do if my monitor says “power saving mode”?

It is standard for computer monitors to have a standby or power-saving mode that activates when the machine is sitting idle for a period of time. At this point, a screensaver will appear or a black screen that says “power-saving mode.” This is adjustable in your computer settings.

How do I repair my LCD monitor if it displays “no input detected”?

When a “no input detected” message appears on your screen there is generally a connection issue. Remove and reconnect all lines into their inputs securely. Make sure they are in the correct input and pushed in all the way.

Noah Staum Avatar

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