Any Monitor's Backlight Goes Off After a Few Seconds

[Sean White]

Bit of an issue I'm having. Maybe one of you guys can help.

So, a few nights ago, my monitor went black. I turned it off and on, and it would stay fine for about 2 seconds, then go completely black again. Tried a different monitor- same thing. This would happen both on the OS and during the BIOS. Weird thing is, unplugging the cable then plugging it back in has the same effect as turning it off and on- it stays fine for a few seconds, then goes black. I just got a new video card, hoping that was the issue, and it isn't. Screen comes on, stays fine for a few seconds (longer this time- 7 seconds), but then blacks out.

Might this be a power supply issue, or even a motherboard problem?

 

[Barhumbug]

Try changing the VGA/DVI cable between pc and monitor.
Also, just to eliminate a possible problem with the power source to the monitor, does it work okay if its just plugged straight into the wall socket - it should sit there saying 'no signal' or similar?

 

[Sean White]

Try changing the VGA/DVI cable between pc and monitor.
Also, just to eliminate a possible problem with the power source to the monitor, does it work okay if its just plugged straight into the wall socket - it should sit there saying 'no signal' or similar?

The two different monitors each have their own DVI cables, so I don't think that's one issue. This second monitor is also newer/better overall, and my dad (whose monitor it is) was using it and it worked just fine. I used two different power strips to check the power to the monitor as well, and both worked fine. It's definitely something with my computer hardware, but I'm not sure what exactly.

 

[Barhumbug]

Thanks, just needed to check the obvious before things get more expensive. If this occurred suddenly then I think, you're right about a possible PSU problem. We need more info about your system to see if the PSU is up to the job.

 

[Sean White]

Well, turns out I found my answer. I tested both monitors by themselves or on different machines, and the problem persisted. Apparently, both monitors lose their backlights after a few seconds. They somehow BOTH blew their capacitors with my machine. How is that possible? I have no idea. Maybe the room I had my computer set up in is funky with power. I honestly am baffled as to WHY it happened or HOW, but at least I know that the issue lies in the monitor hardware.

 

[Barhumbug]

It's extremely unlikely to be a coincidence. Looks like you need to get your room electrics checked out by an electrician - before you plug another monitor into the wall?