PC screen goes black for a moment - what you can do now

If the PC screen goes black briefly, you are certainly quite irritated. We explain what this can be and how you can solve the problem.

Harmless reasons: That's why the screen briefly goes black

The fact that the screen on your Windows PC goes black briefly can sometimes have a very simple and sensible cause:

• If you are currently performing an update that updates the graphics card drivers, it is normal for your screen to go black, flicker, or turn off and then on again.
• The graphics card conveys the image that is displayed on your monitor to this.
• If you update something and the image suddenly looks different for a short time or turns out completely, there is no need for action. Just wait for the update to finish.

Find the cause of the screen problems

If your image goes black without an identifiable cause, there are several problems that could be the cause. So gradually go on the search:

1. First check whether there is a loose connection on the HDMI cable. You can easily wiggle the cable ends or feel the cable for a break. If in doubt, try a different cable.
2. The software can also be to blame for display problems. Update your graphics card drivers through Device Manager or download the latest driver from the manufacturer's website.
3. If the drivers are up-to-date or the update does not solve your problems, you can check your graphics card for errors with the Windows on-board tools.
4. In addition to the HDMI cable, the graphics card is connected via other cables. Switch off the PC completely, including the power switch on the housing, and open it. Check the slots on the graphics card and the outgoing cables.
5. In some cases, it helps to remove the graphics card, remove dust and then reinstall it. Ideally, try a different slot.
6. The problem can also be on the monitor. Here the image is transmitted via a cable, which is usually located on the back or at the bottom of the frame in the housing. Unscrewing the device itself is not recommended for laymen. Gently press the frame to determine if there is a loose connection.
7. Does it only happen at peak performance that your PC screen briefly goes black? Then your hardware may be running too hot. In this case, only an additional fan or a better graphics card will help.

In the next article you will find detailed instructions on how to clean the graphics card.

Video tip: Check the graphics card for errors - how it works