Windows screen flickers - what to do?

If the Windows screen flickers, there can be several reasons. We'll show you what you can do about it.

1. Option: Adjust screen resolution under Windows

1. Go to "Control Panel" and select "Customization".
2. Scroll down a little and click on "Display". Windows 7 users right-click on the desktop and select "Screen resolution".
3. Use the slider to adjust your resolution here according to your screen. Also make sure that you have selected the highest color depth.
4. You will find further information on the appropriate resolution in the operating instructions for your monitor.
5. Clicking "Apply" shows the changes as a preview. If the resolution fits, click "Yes".

Option 2: Update outdated or faulty drivers

The driver of your graphics card may be faulty or outdated:

1. Go to the manufacturer's website of your graphics card and look for the current driver. You can also use Windows Update to search. However, this is less recommendable.
2. Then switch to "Control Panel" and select "Device Manager". Find your graphics card and double-click the name. Switch to the "Driver" tab. Compare the "driver version" with the specified version on the manufacturer's website.
3. If you find a more current version on the manufacturer's website, download and install it.

Option 3: Check hardware for errors if the Windows screen flickers

A hardware defect can also lead to problems on the screen:

• Check the display cable for errors and, if necessary, replace it with a different cable for a test.
• Also check whether the graphics card is correctly inserted in the motherboard and whether all connections are correct.
• Also take a look at the fan on your graphics card and check whether it may not be rotating due to dust deposits.

In addition to the classic, there is an advanced control panel under Windows 8. We will show you what this can do in the next practical tip.