How to Troubleshoot an LCD Monitor That Goes Blank After 30 Seconds
Computer monitors can go blank for a variety of reasons, such as going into standby mode, not having an adequate or functioning power supply, or a bent pin inside the VGA adapter plug. Monitors can also be defective, or there could a problem with the computer's video output. Troubleshooting the monitor for these symptoms will help to determine if it is defective. Having a secondary monitor to test the computer's video output will rule out the monitor as a cause. The average computer technician can troubleshoot an LED monitor going blank in about 20 minutes.
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Instructions
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Check the video output from the computer by plugging in a secondary monitor. Unscrew the twin VGA port posts by turning them counterclockwise, then pull the adapter away from the plug. Replace it with the second monitor's adapter plug and turn the screws clockwise to lock it down. Monitors have a standby feature that shuts down the display if there is no video signal for a few seconds. This saves power and alerts a technician that the computer's video card may have a problem.
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Check the video cable adapter plug for bent pins by unplugging it from the computer and inspecting the plug. VGA adapter plugs have room for 25 male pins, and not all pin sockets may be used. The pins should be upright and parallel with one another. Pins that have become damaged or bent can be gently pried up with a pair of needlenose pliers. Extreme care should be taken because the pins are made of a brittle metal and break easily. After the pin has been returned to a straight, upright position, gently place it back into the VGA port on the computer and test it. Secure the adapter plug, which screws clockwise. If the cable is irreparably damaged, it can be replaced with a new unit on monitors with adapter plugs. Hardwired cables may need professional repair.
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Check the power cable for damage or loose plugs. Although not common, a loose power cable can cause the monitor to stop working if the power is intermittent. The three pronged standard computer socket end of the cable attaches to the rear of the monitor, sometimes in a vertical position that is subject to shock. When one or more of the large pins becomes disengaged, flickering power or sudden shutoffs can happen. The cable can also be damaged by rolling chair wheels or crimps. Open or bare wires can ground out, causing sudden power loss or making equipment go into standby mode. Cover exposed sections of wire with a liberal amount of electrical tape.
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Enter the monitor's menu system and turn off any energy saving software settings. Contemporary video displays have a series of buttons that give access to a rudimentary menu system. The same menu system that allows for changes to brightness and contrast could have settings for power and efficiency. On monitors with an Energy Star rating, this menu may also have settings for energy consumption and shutdown characteristics. Changing these settings may keep it from prematurely turning off.
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Tips & Warnings
Try the monitor on a different computer, if possible. This can rule out monitor issues quickly, and the problem may lie in the computer's video port.
Use extreme caution when working with the power cables; electric shock may occur.
