Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
video card requires additional power to operate.
If the display has two or more input ports, make sure the correct port is selected.
Jittery picture quality
Solution
For LCD monitors, use display-adjustment software or onscreen menus to reduce or eliminate pixel
jitter and pixel swim caused by running the digital LCD display with an analog (VGA) video source.
Use a digital connection (DVI, HDMI, or DisplayPort) instead of the VGA connection to avoid
digital-analog-digital conversion problems like these.
For all monitors, check cables for tightness at the video card and the monitor (if removable):
• Remove the extender cable and retest with the monitor plugged directly into the video card. If
the extender cable is bad, replace it.
• Check the cables for damage; replace as needed.
• If problems are intermittent, check for interference. (Microwave ovens near monitors can cause
severe picture distortion when turned on.)
For CRT monitors, check refresh-rate settings; reduce them until acceptable picture quality is
achieved:
• Use onscreen picture adjustments until an acceptable picture quality is achieved.
• If problems are intermittent and can be “fixed” by waiting or gently tapping the side of the
monitor, the monitor power supply is probably bad or has loose connections internally. Service
or replace the monitor.
Repairing Monitors
Although a display often is replaced as a whole unit, some larger displays might be cheaper to repair
than to replace. If you decide to repair the monitor, your best bet is to either contact the company from
which you purchased the display or contact one of the companies that specialize in monitor depot
repair.
Depot repair
means you send in your display to a repair specialist who either fixes your particular
unit or returns an identical unit it has already repaired. This usually is accomplished for a flat-rate
fee; in other words, the price is the same no matter what the company has done to repair your actual
unit.
Because you usually get a different (but identical) unit in return, the company can ship your repaired
display immediately upon receiving the one you sent in, or even in advance in some cases. This way,
you have the least amount of downtime and can receive the repaired display as quickly as possible. In
some cases, if your particular monitor is unique or one the company doesn't have in stock, you must
wait while your specific unit is repaired.
Troubleshooting a failed monitor is relatively simple. If your display goes out, for example, a swap
with another monitor can confirm that the display is the problem. If the problem disappears when you
change the display, the problem is almost certainly in the original display or the cable; if the problem
remains, it is likely in the video adapter or PC.
Many of the better quality, late-model monitors have built-in self-diagnostic circuitry. Check your
monitor's manual for details. Using this feature, if available, can help you determine whether the
problem is really in the monitor, in a cable, or somewhere else in the system. If self-diagnostics
