Screen flickering is a common computer problem. It is distracting and inconvenient and can harm your productivity. If your monitor screen display is flickering on and off, you should immediately look into it, as it may be a sign of a more severe problem.
Fixing such an issue does not always mean you need to spend too much money. Before you start considering replacing your monitor, we suggest you look through the possible causes behind this problem. Why is your monitor flickering on and off? Can this problem be fixed at home? Our guide answers all of these questions in detail. So read on; you may save yourself from a hefty bill and the inconvenience of a trip to the repair shop!
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Why is my Monitor Flickering On and Off?
There are several reasons your screen display could be flickering. It is necessary first to determine the cause behind the problem so that you can fix it. In this article, we will explore possible reasons why your monitor may be experiencing this issue.
Reason#1: Interrupted Power Supply
An interrupted power supply is among the most common causes of a monitor screen flickering. The issue, in this case, could be either the power cord or the power supply unit itself.
Reason#2: Faulty Cables
A loose or damaged signal cable may be another reason for a flickering monitor screen. As the monitor is an output device, a break in connection can cause the display to flicker.
Reason#3: Low Screen Refresh Rate
The refresh rate is the number of times the images on your screen are refreshed per second. This value is measured in hertz (Hz). A low screen refresh rate may be why your monitor is flickering on and off.
Reason#4: Issue with Graphics Card
A graphics card or video card generates a feed of output images for a display device. In the case of a flickering monitor, the GPU components of the graphics card may have failed. This may occur due to manufacturing defects, incorrect installation, overheating etc.
Reason#5: Faulty Graphics Drivers
The signs of a bad graphics card driver are very similar to those of a bad graphics card. This may make it difficult to know which of the two is causing the problem. If your monitor screen is flickering on and off, there may be an issue with the graphics drivers installed on your computer.
Reason#6: Faulty Monitor
A flickering screen display can also be a sign of a faulty monitor. This may be because the monitor is old or there are faults in the circuits. In either case, you will need to schedule a repair or replacement.
Monitor Flickering On and Off: How to Fix
You are now aware of the possible reasons why your computer screen is flickering on and off. Wondering how you can fix this issue? Then, you’re in the right place!
Below we’ve compiled a list of simple solutions for this problem that you can try at home and save yourself a lot of money.
Method#1: Check that the Power and Signal Cables are properly connected
A flickering screen display can be the result of a break in connection. Check that the power cord and signal cable are firmly plugged in. Inspect the cables for any visible damage. Old cables sometimes need replacement as they degrade due to years of use.
Method#2: Check the Power Supply
If the power cord is securely connected, the issue may be with the power supply unit (PSU) instead.
You can do the following steps to test a power supply unit:
- Turn off your PSU.
- Unplug all cables except the main AC cable and the 24-pin cable.
- Find pin 16 and pin 17 on your 24-pin cable. (To do this, count from the left with the clip facing up and the pins facing toward you).
- Bend a paperclip so the ends can be inserted into pin 16 and pin 17. If using a PSU jumper, insert the ends into pin 16 and pin 17.
- Turn on the PSU.
- If the PSU fan turns on, the PSU is functioning normally.
It is important that you jump the correct pins when performing this test. Jumping the incorrect pins can damage the PSU.
Method#3: Screen Refresh Rate
The industry standard refresh rate for desktop monitors is 60Hz. A low refresh rate can cause your screen display to flicker.
To change the screen refresh rate:
- Go to Settings.
- Go to System > Display > Advanced Display Settings.
- Your screen will show you the option to choose a refresh rate. The options shown depend on the model of your display and what it supports.
Method#4: Check Display Software
Old or faulty display drivers may also be why your monitor screen is flickering. Thankfully, the process to fix such an issue is quite simple.
To manually update a display driver in Windows 10:
- Open the Device Manager.
- In the Device Manager window, open the Display adapters section.
- Right-click on the display driver that needs to be updated and choose Update Driver.
- Select Search automatically for drivers. Windows will scan for available driver updates and download them for you.
- Restart your computer to apply the changes.
To a faulty display driver in Windows 10:
- Go to Settings.
- Click on Device Manager.
- Double-click on Display adapters.
- Right-click on the graphics card and click Uninstall.
- Select the check button which says delete the driver software.
- Reinstall the updated version of the driver.
- Restart your computer so it can apply the changes.
Method#5: Check Graphics Card is properly seated
Screen flickering issues can occur due to a loose graphics card. To ensure that your graphics card is seated correctly:
- Turn off your computer.
- Open the monitor case.
- Remove the motherboard.
- Remove the graphics card from the motherboard.
- Clean the card. Ensure there is no dust on the card
- Slowly place the card back onto the motherboard. Ensure it is firmly fixed.
- Place the motherboard back into the monitor and cover the case.
- Turn on your computer again to check if the problem is resolved.
Method#6: Replace Graphics Card
If the flickering issues persist, it is possible that the graphics card itself is the problem.
The GPU components of a graphics card may fail due to the following:
- Manufacturing faults
- Installation errors
- Overheating
- Moisture buildup on the card
In such cases, the graphics card will need to be replaced. Try to rule out the other options first, as replacing a graphics card can be pretty expensive. You should also make sure that the monitor is not faulty.
Method#7: Replace Monitor
If none of the above solutions have worked for you, it is possible that your monitor has simply reached the end of its lifecycle. In this case, it may be time to schedule a replacement. Contact a trusted PC repair shop, and they can guide you further. The technician can also check if there is any other reason your monitor screen may be experiencing this issue.
Conclusion
In this guide, we have outlined all the possible reasons your monitor screen may be flickering on and off. A flickering screen display typically signals an interrupted power supply, loose or faulty equipment or an issue with the graphics software.
The solution for each of these issues has been explained in detail. We highly recommend that you read through this article closely. If any of our solutions work for you, you might end up saving yourself a lot of time and money.