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How to Fix a Flickering Monitor Screen on PC and Laptops

Flickering monitor screens can be quite distracting and disruptive, especially when you're in the middle of an important task. This issue can occur on both desktops and laptops, and it may have various causes. In this post, we will discuss some effective methods to fix a flickering monitor screen on PC and laptops.

Check Power Sources

Before attempting any complicated troubleshooting steps, make sure the power sources are stable. Try the following:

  1. Unplug your monitor from the power outlet and wait for a few minutes before plugging it back in.
  2. Ensure that your PC or laptop is properly connected to a reliable power source.
  3. If you're using an extension cord, try connecting your devices directly to the wall outlet instead.

Adjust Monitor Settings

Sometimes, flickering may be due to incorrect monitor settings. Follow these steps:

  1. Press Win + P on your keyboard to open the Project menu and then select "PC screen only" or "Duplicate" (for laptops with built-in displays).
  2. Right-click an empty space on your desktop, choose "Display settings."
  3. Click on your monitor in the list, go to the "Advanced display settings," and click on "Display adapter properties."
  4. In the Properties window, select the "Monitor" tab and check the "Test for problems" option. The system will perform a series of tests and report any issues it finds.
  5. Apply any recommended solutions or adjust the monitor settings according to the instructions provided.

Update Drivers

Outdated drivers can cause various display-related issues, including flickering. Here's how to update your graphics driver:

  1. Press Win + X and select "Device Manager" from the list.
  2. Expand the "Display adapters" category.
  3. Right-click on your graphics card and choose "Update driver."
  4. Select "Search automatically for updated driver software."
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the update process.

Check Monitor Cables

Faulty cables can also lead to a flickering monitor screen. Ensure that all the cables are securely connected, and try using different ones if available. If you're using an HDMI cable, ensure it is properly seated in both your laptop/PC and monitor.

Perform a System Restore

If none of the above methods work, you can try performing a system restore to a point before the issue began. This will roll back your operating system to an earlier state, which might help resolve the flickering problem. Make sure you have a system restore point available before attempting this step.

Seek Professional Help

If none of the above methods work and your monitor is still flickering, it might be best to consult a professional technician for assistance. The issue could be due to hardware problems with your monitor or graphics card, requiring replacement or repair.

Published February, 2015