How to Fix Your Computer Screen at Home

Are you tired of calling the company every time there is a little problem with your computer screen? You often have to wait for days on end only to be told by the technicians that it was but a minor problem that bugged the computer screen. While counting the bills, all of us wish we had only thought of tweaking this or that and fixed the problem ourselves. Here is a small guide to fix some common problems.

Dead pixels

If you have been using the monitor for years, you may find some tiny ‘black dots’ spattered over the display. These are called dead pixels; they are virtually undetectable in high res screens. But once you spot them, it is extremely annoying. If it is a new monitor within the warranty period, you can easily return it. But as it happens, dead pixels usually show up in old monitors. It can be fixed using certain software which run it through a cycle of colors. Some YouTube videos work too.

Flickering Display

Flickering display can indicate a wide range of problems from a loose cord to an irreparable problem with the screen. Check the refresh rate; if it is 50 or 60Hz (it depends on the country you are using the device in), it can be due to interference from different electrical power signals. Increase the refresh rate to 72Hz. If problem persists, change the position of the monitor so that interference from heavy machinery, UPS and power tools will be reduced.

Color error and freeze

If your monitor shows purple instead of blue, pink instead of red, or if color freezes, there may be several reasons behind this. Check the video cables and connectors to see if anything is broken or twisted. Sometimes, video cards overheat and distort display; switch off the computer for some time and switch it back on. If there is some other problem with the video card, re-tune it with the software you can get from any monitor technician. Update the card to the latest drivers.

Blank screen

For starters, check if all the connections are secure; a loose cord may well be the root of the problem. Sometimes, problem with the video card makes the screen go blank. Try and check it with another monitor. Set the screen resolution to native pixels; it is different for CRT and LCD screens.

Some general tips

• Install good antivirus software; sometimes viruses cause display distortions. Remove or quarantine corrupt files.
• The display pixels should be set according to software requirements; some software must be run on higher resolution.
• Keep USB modem, phones and such magnetic devices away from monitors; they make the display flicker.
• If the display works fine and then disappears, it could mean the copper windings of the CRT monitor are getting overheated. In this case, it’s best to replace the monitor.

These are some general problems we often encounter while using a computer. Usually these small procedures resolve the problems. But if they persist, you must call a technician and get professional help.

Image Credit: refillplanet.eu