How to Know if your CRT Monitor Should Be Replaced

Don't take that computer monitor in for repair! Often, it is no longer cost-effective to do so. While you or your budget may or may not agree with these tips, it could give you more peace of mind. And help with deciding if and when that old CRT (tube) computer monitor should be retired. You may be surprised to know, a CRT type of computer screen is a more durable option if children or schools will be using it. They often have more life in them.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer monitor (CRT type)
• computer
• Scissors
• Time
• Fountain pen
• Cable

How to Decide When to Replace Your Computer Monitor

1. Push the button on the front of the monitor to turn on the monitor if it is not powered on. You might hear a slight buzz sound and see the screen flicker.
   
   Wait for Microsoft Windows to load.
2. In the case you do not see a picture, repeat the process. If it is flashing in any color other than green you may have a problem. Otherwise, give it time to warm up.
3. Typical CRT monitor cable If you have another monitor available, unhook this one by detaching the thick cable with the blue end on it and reattaching the replacement monitor in the same slot.
4. If the replacement monitor is powered on but slowly, then you know the monitor is on its way out.
   
   If it does not work, it is possible there is a problem with the computer hardware, such as the video card. If this is the case, try to restart the computer. If it still fails, you may want to have it looked at by a computer business.
5. You can safely and easily replace a CRT monitor with another CRT or a newer display. Be cautious in some cases, older PC models cannot accommodate LCD or a plasma screen, but this is rare.
   
   Keep your receipt until you verify that newly purchased monitor will work with your existing computer.
6. Another sign a monitor is going is it will go dark unexpectedly or even flicker. Sometimes there is a date by the model number, if this is an older model, consider replacing and/or an upgrade.
7. If you would like a replacement CRT monitor, check the newspaper ads, thrift stores, Craigslist or eBay. They often have good deals.
8. If all else fails, use your scissors to cut out the ads in your local paper or a pen to write down good deals on monitors.

Tips & Warnings

• Check to see the cable is securely fastened into the plug and the pins are not bent. If not, you will get a lighter, fading screen. Twist the 2 pins in so they are securely fastened. Refasten the cable if it comes loose. You will not harm the computer by doing this.
• Transport a monitor by securing it tightly behind a car seat on the floor or tightly in a space in your trunk.
• Use caution and pull cord out slowly so you do not bend any pins, otherwise this will cause headaches when you go to reattach a monitor.
• Make sure the power cord to the monitor is plugged in on the monitor and on your power strip. This is often overlooked.
• For safety reasons, never open up a monitor even if it has been sitting for a great length of time. They hold their charge well.
• Dispose of any monitor that is not working at a computer recycling station.

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