CRT monitor picture looks distorted, or behaving in other unusual ways
Summary:
CRT monitor picture looks distorted, or behaving in other unusual ways.
A distorted or otherwise unusual image on a CRT monitor rarely indicates a physical failure in the monitor itself. There are several troubleshooting options available to potentially solve the problem.
Check the following options to see if any solve the problem:
- Try a different VGA cable to eliminate that as a potential cause (Not applicable in monitors with a built-in cable.)
- Try the monitor on a different computer, or, a different monitor on that computer. Either test will demonstrate if the computer itself is causing the problem.
The following two options especially apply if the monitor has been moved, or there have been changes in the environment around the monitor.
- CRT displays can be affected by magnetic or electromagnetic energy. Make sure there are no magnets on or by the monitor (especially speakers.) Keep the monitor and its cables away from motors, high-voltage areas, electrical cords, metal poles, etc. Essentially, anything that can produce or conduct electricity or magnetism.
- CRTs can be affected by "dirty power". Put the monitor on a power conditioner on a dedicated circuit if at all possible. Appliances sharing the same circuit can cause trouble--blenders, microwaves, hair dryers, fans, etc. Also, try a different circuit in case the circuit in use is wired incorrectly.
