Technology computers-hardware

Common Problems With Computer Screens

By Technology Last updated Saturday, May/11/2024

The "Blue Screen of Death" is not a welcome sight.computer monitor with padlock image by patrimonio designs from Fotolia.com

Problems with a computer screen range from simple to vexing. The trick, especially if you are a newcomer to using technology, is to not panic or get mad. Neither state of mind will get your screen working again. This is the time to put on your sleuthing hat and follow a basic troubleshooting plan to get to the root of the problem. Replacing the monitor is a possibility, but you may not need to take that step just yet.

Blank Screen

The most noticeable computer screen problem is when you sit down to find absolutely nothing. No flickering lights and no picture. The first thing to check is the power supply and PC connection. Simply follow these two cords from the back of the computer screen (monitor) and make sure both are snug at either end. If they are, borrow another monitor and hook it up to your system. If it works fine, then you have a dead computer screen.

A blank screen may also occur when the computer monitor "burns out." Monitors use a backlight that degenerates over a period of time--they will dim by about 50 percent over 50,000 hours, according to computing.net.

The problem may also be caused by a faulty video card--if you have a desktop, the monitor cable is connected to the computer through the VGA (video graphics adapter) port, says the Microsoft Small Business Center website. If the video card is separate (not part of the motherboard) a new one may fix the screen problem.

Not so affectionately dubbed the "Blue Screen of Death" by computer technicians and users around the world, this error is characterized by a (you guessed) solid blue screen with a message in white letters. Make a note of the message and any error numbers it mentions. You can surf the Internet or browse the Microsoft Support or Apple Support databases to see if a fix has been found for it. Often, this screen issue suggests a random access memory (RAM) problem in the computer, according to the Microsoft Small Business Center website. If you have a moderate level of skill, open the PC box and swap memory sticks. Otherwise, take your computer into a computer repair shop and have them test it. They should be able to advise you on how to resolve the Blue Screen of Death.

Other computer screen problems you might encounter are fuzzy graphics, horizontal lines, oddly alternating colors, or a warped image. If you are using really cheap speakers, try moving them farther away, because the cables may not be properly shielded or may be too long. According to waterwheel.com, cables should be no longer than 5 feet, as longer cables weaken the signal.

There is a chance your settings might have become skewed from other electromagnetic devices such as telephones. Look at the row of buttons at the bottom of the screen. One should say "menu." Through it you can access other monitor adjustments. If the adjustments do not help, consider taking it to the repair shop.

Monitors are normally not worth repairing. Your best bet may be to buy another one, says the Microsoft Small Business Center website.

One bit of advice: do not try to open the monitor on your own. The electricity pinging around inside could kill you. This is a job for a qualified technician only.