Troubleshoot Your Monitor

What are some basic monitor troubleshooting steps?

There are several basic steps to help determine if the monitor is causing a video problem you may be experiencing. After each step, determine if the video problem is still apparent.

Reseat the monitor video cable:

1. Turn off the computer and the monitor.
2. Disconnect and then reconnect the monitor video cable from the back of the monitor.
3. Check for bent pins on the connectors.
4. Turn on the monitor, and then turn on the computer.

If that does not resolve the issue try the following steps:

1. Plug the monitor and computer power cables directly into a known good outlet.
2. Connect the monitor to a different computer.
3. Connect another monitor to the current computer.
4. Refer to the self-test section of the specific monitor.
   Note: When running the self-test, follow the instructions listed for that monitor.
5. Test to see if a video issue is present in the BIOS. Refer to your computers manual on how to enter the BIOS.
6. Test to see if a video issue is present in Windows Safe mode. You can enter Safe Mode by pressing F8 on start up and selecting Safe Mode, then following the prompts.
7. Confirm that the brightness, contrast, and all other monitor controls are set for optimum viewing.
8. Review all other applicable troubleshooting steps, issues, and frequently asked questions before replacing a monitor.

Some causes of video problems may originate with the video card, video driver, or an incorrect display setting. If these basic troubleshooting steps do not resolve the issue, refer to your model monitor's Users Guide and product information for specific support documents, driver installations and frequently asked questions.