Why are there dead or black pixels?

Determine dead pixel count

Several programs and services help determine how many bad pixels are on your display. We suggest Dead Pixels Test, an excellent free website with several color patterns that help locate and identify bad pixels.

Examples of other utilities include: IsMyLcdOK and dead pixel buddy can also be installed and used to help locate dead pixels.

Fixing dead pixels

The small free software utility dead pixel fixer can also fix dead pixels by causing them to become unstuck. The utility works by cycling through each RGB colors on the screen, causing pixels stuck on a single color to become unstuck.

Instructions on using dead pixel fixer

1. Download the utility. The file is a single .exe file named DeadPixelFixer.exe.
2. Once downloaded, run the utility. Use the Minutes scroll bar and move it to five minutes.
3. Click the small, medium, or large button to determine the window size that will be flashing through the RGB (red, green, and blue) colors. If you only have one dead pixel, select small.
4. Once the utility is running, move it to the location of the dead pixel.
5. After letting it run for five minutes, see if the issue is resolved. If not, let the utility run for a few hours.

Unfortunately, even after running this utility for a few hours, it may not resolve your dead pixel issue. If this does not fix your issues, continue reading for recommendations on what else can be done.

LCD or flat-panel with dead pixels

LCDs or flat-panel displays can have internal components fail that, in turn, cause dead pixels. Although most users consider this a defect in the hardware, most manufacturers will not replace the monitor unless it has multiple dead pixels. As a general rule, four or more dead pixels at least one-inch away from each other.

If your display has dead pixels, refer to your manual or contact the display manufacturer to determine how many dead pixels qualify for a replacement. If the display meets the requirements for replacement, we suggest you have it replaced.

Dead pixels on CRT monitor

A dead pixel is not a common issue for CRT (cathode ray tube) monitors, but it may still occur. When it does, most monitors have an entire row or column of pixels to go out. Most monitor manufacturers do not have a policy or warranty for this issue, and when this occurs, replace the monitor if under warranty.

Contact the monitor manufacturer for information on their policy and how to get the monitor repaired or serviced.