The computer monitor is as essential as the CPU (central processing unit) in a personal computer setup. Thus, we all need to take care of that component; a malfunctioning monitor hinders our productivity and prevents us from finishing essential activities.
How long do computer monitors last, though? In this article, we are going to break down crucial facts about the lifespan of your computer monitor and malfunction indicators. We also included some helpful tips on how to care for your desktop monitor properly and make it last longer.
Computer Monitor Lifespan
The computer monitor’s lifespan is based on the kind of light source it utilizes. It will also depend on how many hours the component is used each day.
The two most commonly known desktop computer monitors are the LCD (liquid crystal display) and the CRT (cathode ray tube) monitors.
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Monitor
This type of monitor features a flat-screen. For its light source, it makes use of a liquid crystal solution sandwiched between 2 layers of polarizing material.
The LCD monitor usually comes with a rating of 30,000-60,000 hours of usage. This is equivalent to 10-20 years of service life if you make use of your desktop setup 8 hours per day.
CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) Monitor
The CRT computer monitor makes use of an electron gun within a vacuum tube to force electrons to a fluorescent screen. CRT models are older computer monitor models; they are often heavy, bulky and fragile units.
The rating of CRT monitors often falls around 25,000-30,000 hours of usage. This rating is equivalent to 8-10 years’ lifespan if you use the monitor 8 hours a day.
LED (Light Emitting Diode) Monitor
These monitors come with the latest screen technology. LED monitors are bright and vivid and are energy efficient. However, they can be quite expensive compared to the older types of monitor. They can work for an average of 50,000 hours.
Signs of a Malfunctioning Monitor
Issues with your monitors can provide users with some warnings in advance. Recognizing these indications will help in dealing with your computer issues before it gets worse. Here are some signs of a malfunctioning monitor.
Presence of dead pixels
Dead pixels are blank pixels on the monitor; it cannot go away without a replacement due to hardware damage. If your monitor has them, you may have to opt for a replacement to steer clear of more serious computer issues.
Monitor burn-in
Monitor burn-in refers to a ghost-like appearance of a graphic that’s frequently displayed on the screen. You can prevent this occurrence by using screensavers or related software like JScreenFix.
Erratic display
If your monitor has a habit of switching on and off, hibernates intermittently, powers up suddenly or does actions which prevent it from showing screen images, then this may be caused by your monitor’s power supply malfunctioning.
Screen problems
A monitor does not appear black when it malfunctions. It will emit a slight greenish tint or display a blue screen. This is usually attributed to hardware and software problems. With CRT monitors, you might hear a popping sound whenever it goes bad.
LCD models often fade quietly whenever it malfunctions. You may also detect a faint burning smell whenever a monitor gets damaged.
Test the monitor
The first thing you need to check on a malfunctioning monitor is to make sure that the component and the power cables are correctly connected. You can also connect another monitor to the computer and check if the issue is exclusive to the first monitor.
In case the second monitor does not work, this may be attributed to a damaged graphics card. You need to take the computer to a technician to further determine its problem. To see if the power supply is not the problem, you can connect another power supply to the malfunctioning monitor.
You can also try to remember if the monitor started malfunctioning following a specific software installation or update.
Proper Care for your Computer Monitor
We need to deal with our computer monitors whenever we have documents, encoding tasks, graphics and leisurely activities to finish. Thus, we need to take care of it to extend its lifespan. Here are some tips on extending the life of this essential computer component.
Always keep its air vents open.
The air vents of a monitor are usually located on the top part or the sides. Prevent heat buildup by keeping those air vents unobstructed at all times. This will also prevent damage to its components.
You can also use a brush or a vacuum cleaner to take away dirt, dust and grime that has accumulated on the ventilation holes.
Consider using a surge protector.
To extend the longevity of your monitor, you must use a reliable surge protector. Do not plug the monitor directly to a wall current since a sudden electrical spike can damage the component. In addition, these electrical spikes are not often covered by manufacturer warranty.
Stop switching your monitor on and off more than required.
The hasty change from on to off can hamper the functionality of the monitor and at worst, lead to internal damage.
- Inspect the connections
- Check that the cord or cable between the video card and the monitor are attached securely at every end. The cables should not be pressed or folded.
- In case you need to make modifications and you have a removable cable on hand, unplug it first then re-plug the item into the monitor’s port. This can help reset a loose connection and take away any corrosion forming on the connectors.
Keep your monitor at a secure, safe place.
Make sure that you place your computer monitor on a stable desk and arrange the cable out of everyone’s way to prevent tripping. As convenient as it may sound, do not put glasses of water or other beverages close to the monitor.
The computer monitor displays all of the activities we do on the computer. Without it, we cannot finish our tasks or even get into our favourite computer activities from gaming, browsing the internet and watching our favourite online shows and movies.
To avoid forking over replacements and expensive repairs, proper care and maintenance are needed. We have described all of the steps you need to take care of your computer monitor; follow those tips right away for a healthier computer monitor.
FAQs:
- How can I tell if my monitor has malfunctioned?
Your monitor may not turn on and appears completely black. It could glow in faint green or have a blue screen which suggests a problem with hardware or software.
- How long do LED monitors last?
This superior and efficient light source can work for an average of 50,000 hours.
- Do monitors degrade over time?
Yes! Monitors are designed with the CCFL backlight that becomes dimmer over time. However, it is a slow process and may take a number of years if you properly use your monitor.
- Is it worth upgrading my monitor?
Upgrading is more about your needs and convenience. If you are looking for better productivity and increasing raw power then upgrading is definitely worth it.
- How often should I replace my computer monitor?
Computer monitors are designed with no definite timeline for replacement. With proper care and use, they last for more than three years. Therefore, the room for replacement depends on your personal needs and requirements
- Do LCD screens wear out?
LCD screen displays have a lifespan of an average of 30,000 to 60,000 hours. The pictures on LCD displays will show some wear because they are generated by powerful lamps. These lamps are bound to dim over time.