Without displays, computers are worthless.This guide for computer monitor repair explains how a flat-screen or tube-type computer monitor works, what commonly goes wrong, how to diagnose a computer monitor problem, and what components and tools you’ll need to repair it.Both flat-screen and older tube-type computer displays can benefit from the advice in this Fix-It Guide.
It also contains detailed directions for testing and replacing a monitor fuse.When necessary, this guide will direct you to electrical receptacle repair, electrical cord repair, and computer repair. Miniature circuit boards in flat-screen computer monitors should only be fixed by electronic technicians.Replaceable fuses are generally the first item to go out on older CRT computer monitors with analog VGA data connection.
How Does a Computer Monitor Work?
A computer monitor is similar to a tube-type television monitor in that it shows data from a computer on a screen.The monitor creates a stream of electrons that light up phosphors on the inside of the screen using digital values given by a computer processor.Each of the three fundamental colors is represented by a signal, which is merged into multiple color signals that appear to move around the screen.
Instead of phosphors, portable computers have a screen made up of liquid crystal display (LCD) cells.Computer displays are powered by a separate electrical line and get their signal from a monitor cable connected to the computer.
Flat screen or flat panel monitors are connected to computers and other devices using Display Port (DP), Digital Video Interface (DVI), High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI), or older-style analog Video Graphics Array (VGA) data connections.
What Can Go Wrong with a Computer Monitor?
Computer display issues aren’t necessarily caused by the monitor itself.The computer must be used to test the monitor.It’s possible that the image on the monitor won’t show up.
It’s possible that the image on the screen isn’t clear and bright. How Can I Identify a Computer Monitor Problem?
If a computer display does not turn on, ensure sure the electrical outlet is turned on.
Examine the power cord.
Make that the monitor and computer are connected and that the computer is turned on.
Replace the data wire as well (DP, DVI, HDMI, VGA; see above).
Computer Monitor Repair
If the image on the computer monitor screen is not clear and bright, check your owner’s manual for instructions on adjusting the monitor. Typically there are adjustment buttons on the monitor face below the screen.
What Do I Need for Computer Monitor Repair?
Replacement cables and fuses are available from the manufacturer as well as from local computer shops. Tools you may need to access, test, and fix a computer monitor include these:
Screwdrivers
Multimeter
Steps to Computer Monitor Repair?
Repair Tips
A computer monitor gets its instructions from a video controller card in the computer. The card may be an add-on expansion card or it may be built into the main circuit board, called the motherboard. If it is a separate card, you may need to open the computer and make sure the card is firmly connected. Also check the flat data cable that runs between the video card and the motherboard, if so equipped.
Computer Monitor Repair
Locate, remove, and test the line fuse, typically located near the power cord entry.
Test and replace a computer monitor fuse:
Disconnect the computer monitor from the electrical receptacle and from the computer processor.
Lay the monitor on a padded surface and remove the housing screws (some may be under pop-out tabs).
Slide the rear housing off.
Locate the line fuse typically near the power cord entrance. Remove the fuse from its holder and test it with a multimeter. Replace the fuse if it is faulty.