Video and Monitor Problems
CAUTION:
Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE:
If your computer came with a PCI graphics card installed, removal of the card is not necessary when installing additional graphics cards;
however, the card is required for troubleshooting purposes. If you remove the card, store it in a safe and secure location. For information about your
graphics card, go to support.dell.com.
The screen is blank
NOTE:
For troubleshooting procedures, see the monitor's documentation.
The screen is difficult to read
Check the monitor cable connection —
Ensure that the monitor cable is connected to the correct graphics card (for dual graphics card configurations).
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If you are using the optional DVI-to-VGA adapter, ensure that the adapter is correctly attached to the graphics card and monitor.
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Ensure that the monitor cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your computer.
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Remove any video extension cables and connect the monitor directly to the computer.
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Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the monitor's power cable is defective.
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Check the connectors for bent or broken pins (it is normal for monitor cable connectors to have missing pins).
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Check the monitor power light —
If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power.
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If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that the monitor is turned on.
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If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse to resume normal operation.
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Test the electrical outlet —
Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
Check the diagnostic lights —
See
Diagnostic
Lights.
Check the monitor settings —
See the monitor documentation for instructions on adjusting the contrast and brightness, demagnetizing (degaussing) the
monitor, and running the monitor self-test.
Move the subwoofer away from the monitor —
(2 feet) away from the monitor.
Move the monitor away from external power sources —
appear shaky. Turn off nearby devices to check for interference.
Rotate the monitor to eliminate sunlight glare and possible interference
Adjust the Windows display settings —
Windows XP:
1. Click Start® Control Panel® Appearance and Themes.
2. Click the area you want to change or click the Display icon.
3. Try different settings for Color quality and Screen resolution.
Windows Vista:
1. Click Start
® Control Panel® Hardware and Sound® Personalization® Display Settings.
2. Adjust Resolution and Colors settings, as needed.
3D image quality is poor
If your speaker system includes a subwoofer, ensure that the subwoofer is positioned at least 60 centimeters
Fans, fluorescent lights, halogen lamps, and other electrical devices can cause the screen image to