Why Does My Screen Flicker When I Turn On My Computer and How to Fix It?
If your screen flickers or blinks when you turn on your computer, it could be due to various issues, ranging from simple settings problems to more serious hardware faults. Let’s explore the main causes and look at ways to resolve this issue.
1. Issues with Video Drivers
Video drivers control how your graphics card and monitor function. If drivers are outdated or corrupted, they can cause screen flickering. Try updating your video drivers by visiting the website of your graphics card manufacturer (for instance, NVIDIA or AMD) and downloading the latest version.
2. Screen Refresh Rate Settings
Flickering might be caused by an incorrect screen refresh rate. To check your settings, follow these steps:
- Open Display Settings on your computer.
- Go to the Advanced display settings section.
- Find the Monitor tab and ensure the refresh rate is set to the recommended value (usually 60 or 75 Hz).
3. Loose or Damaged Cables
Screen flickering may be due to a loose or damaged cable connection. Check the cable that connects your monitor to your computer. Try reconnecting it or replacing it with a new one to rule out this issue. If possible, connect your monitor to a different device to ensure that the monitor itself is functioning correctly.
4. Power Supply Issues
Unstable power supply can cause screen flickering. Ensure your computer and monitor are connected to a surge protector or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to protect against voltage fluctuations.
5. Problems with the Monitor
If the other solutions don’t work, the issue may lie with the monitor itself. Try connecting a different monitor to your computer. If the flickering stops, your old monitor may need repair or replacement.
6. Hardware Problems with the Graphics Card
Sometimes, screen issues can be caused by a faulty graphics card. If you suspect this is the case, consider having a specialist diagnose the issue, or temporarily install another graphics card if available.