How to Diagnose Computer Monitor Problems

It can be upsetting when the computer monitor doesn't seen to work properly. After all, if you can't see what is on the screen or if what you see looks funny, your time on the computer is going to be more frustrating than enjoyable.

Things You'll Need

• Second monitor or computer
• Spare monitor cables

Instructions

1. Check both of the cables for the monitor if you are having problems getting a signal to it from the computer. Make sure that they are securely plugged in.

2. Use a spare cable for the monitor to see if the original cable is no longer working.

3. Swap the monitor with a different monitor and see if the second one works any better. If it does, the first monitor is probably broken.

4. Swap the monitor onto a different computer to see if it works there. If it does, the problem is either with the computer or the video card on the first computer system.

5. Ground yourself first by touching metal (you can wear latex gloves as a safety precaution) and reseat the memory and video card in the computer case. If either of these had shifted, it could explain the problems.

6. Boot up in Safe Mode and see if the monitor works properly. If it does, then you should update the video card, defrag the computer, and clean the registry to resolve the problem with the monitor.

Tips & Warnings

• Use caution when working on an open computer case or tower.