Specifications

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Chapter 15 Video Hardware
models. Even factory service technicians often lack proper documentation and service information for
newer models; they usually exchange your unit for another and repair the defective one later. Never
buy a display for which no local factory repair depot is available.
If you have a problem with a display or an adapter, it pays to call the manufacturer, who might know
about the problem and make repairs available. Sometimes, when manufacturers encounter numerous
problems with a product, they might offer free repair, replacements, or another generous offer that
you would never know about if you did not call.
Remember, also, that many of the problems you might encounter with modern video adapters and
displays are related to the drivers that control these devices rather than to the hardware. Be sure you
have the latest and proper drivers before you attempt to have the hardware repaired; a solution might
already be available.
Troubleshooting Monitors
Problem
No picture.
Solution
If the LED on the front of the monitor is yellow or flashing green, the monitor is in power-saving
mode. Move the mouse or press Alt+Tab on the keyboard and wait up to 1 minute to wake up the sys-
tem if the system is turned on.
If the LED on the front of the monitor is green, the monitor is in normal mode (receiving a signal),
but the brightness and contrast are set incorrectly; adjust them.
If no lights are lit on the monitor, check the power and power switch. Check the surge protector or
power director to ensure that power is going to the monitor. Replace the power cord with a known-
working spare if necessary. Retest. Replace the monitor with a known-working spare to ensure that the
monitor is the problem.
Check data cables at the monitor and video card end.
Problem
Jittery picture quality.
Solution
LCD monitors. Use display-adjustment software or onscreen menus to reduce or eliminate pixel jitter
and pixel swim.
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 extended 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.)
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.
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