Flash on monitor

[tweedledee]

I have a crt monitor and for a few weeks now I have noticed an occasional flash on the screen. It's similar to a lightening flash and only happens maybe two or three times per day. Everything else is normal. It also happens on different parts of the screen, but usually in the top half near the center. Do you think the monitor is on the way out, and could it catch fire?

[budz]

I have a crt monitor and for a few weeks now I have noticed an occasional flash on the screen. It's similar to a lightening flash and only happens maybe two or three times per day. Everything else is normal. It also happens on different parts of the screen, but usually in the top half near the center. Do you think the monitor is on the way out, and could it catch fire?

sounds like you need a new monitor from santa claus!

[redwudz]

Do you hear anything when you see the flash? Like a high pitched 'squeak' or other sounds? If not, likely not dangerous. You might try this with the VGA connector unplugged, to be sure it's not something from the computer. If it still does it, I would also recommend replacing it.

[tweedledee]

Pity about that, I called him a fat bastard last year and I'm off his list now.

Thanks REDWUDZ, there is no sound and it doesn't happen very often to have a real test.

[ahhaa]

G'day chum!
with all the LCD screens falling in price, I'd guess you could find a brand new CRT monitor for little to nothing. Or get an LCD & cut down on the eye strain. Not to mention the Xrays zapping your gonads!:]

[AlanHK]

There's high voltage in a CRT, so any kind of a short can be dramatic.

When it's very humid here (97% is not uncommon) I get flashes and weird effects on my CRT till it's warmed up and dried out. And when its dry, dust can cause shorts too. You might carefully open the back (with the power off) and use a duster, or vacuum to clean it. Try not to touch any parts of the tube, lethal high voltage can stay on these for hours after use.

Otherwise, look for a replacement. Used CRTs are a real bargain now, if I had room I could get a 20" CRT monitor for 5% of new price as many offices upgrade to LCD and throw out high end, but bulky, CRTs.

[tweedledee]

I'm looking at getting a 19' wide screen LCD when this one goes, and as far as my gonads are concerned, after being zapped by radiation for Prostate cancer my gonads are well and truly fried.