Expert: Chris Morrison - 6/29/2008

Question
I have an almost brand new Samsung LCD 22" monitor. The coumputer is also almost brand new. However, every time the computer is turned on, the screen seems to almost "constantly refresh" and have a black screen, with odd coloured bars that slowly run down it - these have no pattern. Also, I just bought Counter-Strike, and whenever I try to open the game, the same thing happens. I am almost 100% sure this is a monitor issue, because if I click I can hear the game's sound effects. I've tried blowing air into the connection cable and the dock for it in the CPU...Any ideas?

Answer
Get some canned air - 2 cans
unplug the monitor and computer.
Use canned air to blow out all the vent holes of the monitor.
Leave it unplugged for about 1 day.
Open the computer case. Use the canned air to blow out the computer. pay special attention to fans and the power supply - actuall blow the air through the power supply vents on both sides.
If you have an add on video card (not on the motherboard), remove the screw at the back of the case, and remove the video card. Reinsert the card and make sure it is tight. replace the screw.
After the day is up plug the monitor back in and use the buttons on the front to enter the monitor menu. Choose to reset or factory settings.
Hook it back up to the computer and boot the computer.
If the problem still occurs try the monitor on another computer or laptop.
If the problem goes away by hooking it up elsewhere - replace the video card.If you are not sure what type to purchase just post back model and serial of the computer.
If the problem is still there after hooking the monitor up elsewhere, seek rpelacement through warranty or purchase a new one. Check newegg.com for best prices.