Common Monitor Problems
My Computer Monitor won't Switch On
There are a number of possibilities that could be the cause for your monitor failing firstly you would have to established what type of monitor you have as different monitors can have different problems.
If it's a standard CRT monitor then there are a few possible causes firstly check the basics such as is the monitor plugged in correctly? Has the brightness level of the screen been reduced since last being used? If it is either of these simply ensure the cable is secured and the brightness set at the right level. If it proves to be a more technical problem then it may well be a fault in the internal circuitry of the monitor meaning it will require a professional to complete the work to save any problems reoccurring.
However, if you have an LCD monitor and the monitor is completely dead then there is a chance it is the back light meaning the bulb will need changing, below are some simple instructions on how to do so but ensure to take extreme care as the bulbs hold a harmful chemical called Mercury Vapour so it is best to be done in a well ventilated area to save you breathing any in if the bulb were to be broken.
- First you need to ensure you have the right tools this equipment consists of a new bulb (obviously checking at the shop it is the correct one), screwdrivers, pliers, soldering iron and wire cutters also a dremel style tool (it is not recommended to use electric powered tools for this work).
- Then you will need to fully remove the stand from your monitor using the correct sized screwdriver, and also remove the back off the monitor to reveal the bulb lying usually along the bottom of the monitor's internal frame.
- Then the old bulb must be removed from its plastic casing this is used to protect the bulb and also helps diffuse the light. To do this you will have to be very careful to cause as little damage as possible to the casing, this is where your dremel style tool comes in ensuring it has the correct type of cutting fixture on the end you will have to use it very slowly mainly using the heat from the drill to prise open the base end (where the wires are hanging down), then to loosen the glue you can use a blow dryer to slightly soften it making it easier to remove.
- Once removed you will have to splice the wires so to leave enough space for the new bulb to be attached. Then carefully remove the bulb from its case and dispose of it correctly.
- When this is removed take out the reflector that holds the bulb and its case in place there should be some plastic circles that hold it there, if these get damaged in the process of removing the old bulb then simply use some high quality sticky tape to hold it in place.
- Then all that's left to do is place the new bulb in the holding securely being careful not to damage it in any way, then secure the wire to the inverter and attach the back again.
- Once everything is back in its correct place the screen should light up once again.
Your CRT Monitor Image is Squashed Vertically
Well there could be a number of things causing this firstly check the settings of the screen adjuster making sure it hasn't been adjusted accidentally. Once you have established it is nothing to do with these controls then it may well be if the image ends up reduced to one single line that the entire vertical out put has failed in this case you will need to seek the advise of a professional.
The Image on the Screen of your Monitor Rolls off the Screen Vertically
This means your computer is not able to lock on to the vertical signals from the graphics adaptor. In order to check this is the case your best trying the computer with a different monitor, if the new monitor is fine then you know it's a fault with the monitor and therefore are best sending it for repair as it is classed as high voltage equipment. However, if the testing monitor shows the same problem then its most likely a problem with the video cable or graphics card either which can be easily replaced.
It is simple to fix some problems with monitors yourself but remember they are classed as high voltage equipment so if you aren't entirely sure how to carry out the work take your monitor to a professional.