how to fix dead pixels

How to Revive a Dead Pixel

By Wilkie Collins

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Dead pixels are tiny squares on the screen of an LCD TV or computer screen that remain black at all times, regardless of the image displayed. These pixels remain black, as there is no light reaching them. There are a number of measures you can take to attempt to repair dead pixels.

Identify whether the pixel you are trying to fix is definitely "dead." Pixels that appear a constant white are known as hot pixels, whereas those that are fixed at any other color (except black) are referred to as stuck pixels.

Download pixel repair software form the Internet. This is often the easiest way to repair a dead pixel. Software programs run through color cycles on your LCD monitor and TV in an attempt to knock the dead pixel back to life.

Apply pressure with an eraser to the area afflicted by a dead pixel if the software approach fails. Make sure the screen is switched off and that the eraser is wrapped in a soft cloth before placing it on the screen. Apply pressure for around 20 seconds and restore power to your screen.

Try tapping the dead pixel if the approaches in steps 2 and 3 fail to remedy the problem. Set your desktop background to black and gently tap the damaged segment of the screen with the base of a marker pen or similar-shaped object. Gradually increase pressure, but make sure you don't strike too hard or you may crack the screen. Tap repeatedly around 20 times and it may jar the pixel back to life.

Be aware that dead pixels are often incurable problems. Hot and stuck pixels usually have a higher success rate, as there is some light reaching this screen area, albeit in an incorrect fashion. Dead pixels are typically harder to cure, so you may have to learn to live with them or purchase a new screen.

References

Writer Bio

Wilkie Collins started writing professionally in 2007. She has submitted work for organizations including Venue, an arts-and-culture website for Bristol and Bath (U.K.), and "Sound and Vision," a technology magazine. Collins holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and media studies from the University of Bristol.