What is a Dead Pixel?
A dead pixel is an area on a monitor or TV screen that no longer displays color or light properly. It occurs when the tiny LED or LCD element responsible for that pixel either malfunctions or completely stops working.
Dead pixels usually appear as dark spots on the screen, either black, red, green, blue or white. They can occur from normal wear and tear, a manufacturing defect, or physical damage to the screen.
While one or two dead pixels may not be very noticeable, a cluster of them can be quite distracting and frustrating for the owner. Thankfully, there are a few potential solutions for fixing them at home.
Checking for a Stuck Pixel
Before attempting to fix a dead pixel, it’s important to confirm it is actually dead and not just stuck. Stuck pixels appear dead but are often just jammed in one color state.
To check for a stuck pixel:
- Display a pure white image on the full screen for 5 minutes. See if the dark spot changes color.
- Next display a pure red, green and blue image for 5 minutes each. Check if the spot changes to those colors.
- If the spot changes color, it is likely just a stuck pixel. Try the fixes below to unstick it.
- If the spot remains unchanged and dead during this process, then it is a true dead pixel.
Software Fixes
Some dead pixels can potentially be repaired using software tools and pixel fixing videos. Here are a few options to try:
Flashing Colors Videos
- Play a “dead pixel fixer” video on full screen. These display rapidly flashing colors designed to unstick stuck pixels.
- Run for at least 10 minutes to potentially revive stuck or dead pixels. Videos are available on YouTube.
JScreenFix
- Download this free dead pixel fixing program for PCs and Macs.
- It runs dead pixel diagnosis and flashing color patterns to attempt repair.
UDPix
- Download this shareware program that flashes screens in a wide range of colors and frequencies.
Massage the Pixel
- With powered off, gently massage the dead pixel with your finger or soft cloth for a few minutes. Apply light pressure.
- This can sometimes jar stuck pixels free or reconnect broken connections.
Hardware Fixes
If software fixes don’t revive the dead pixel, you may need to attempt hardware repairs. These have risks, so proceed carefully:
Apply Pressure
- With screen powered off, use a clean pencil eraser and firmly massage the dead pixel for several minutes. Apply steady pressure.
- This may fix pixels stuck due to gaps in the ribbon connector between panel and circuit board.
Adjust Temperature
- Use a hair dryer on the cool setting to gently heat up the dead pixel for 1-2 minutes, which can loosen stuck pixels.
- Alternatively place a frozen gel pack wrapped in cloth against pixel for 1 minute to contract screen.
DIY Screen Replacement
- For monitors or TVs out of warranty, consider replacing the panel yourself. Quality replacement LCD panels can be bought online at reasonable prices.
- This repair requires disassembling the display, which has risks. Follow online video guides carefully.
Professional Repair Service
- For screens under warranty or those you don’t want to risk repairing, contact the manufacturer or a professional TV/monitor repair shop.
- They can diagnose issue and replace screen if defective under warranty.
When to Accept Defeat
If the dead pixel remains after trying software and hardware fixes, it likely cannot be repaired. At that point you’ll have to decide:
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If the dead pixel is isolated and not distracting during normal use, consider just living with it.
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If the dead pixel is unacceptable, replace the monitor or TV screen. For newer units this may require professional installation.
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For older displays with several dead pixels, it may be time to upgrade or replace the screen. Repair costs can outweigh buying a new monitor or TV.
With persistence and care you can sometimes revive dead pixels, but in severe cases replacing the screen may be necessary. At least try software fixes first, as they pose no risk to the display.
