How to Check an LCD

LCD, or liquid crystal display, is technology that provides a means of displaying pictures on a flat screen. It's common in TVs, computer screens and cell phones. With age, an LCD's performance can drop. This is usually due to "dead" pixels, which are noticeable areas of discoloring. They can result from the transistor shorting or malfunctioning. It's pretty easy to check for this.

• 1

  Scan your screen closely for areas of random coloration -- things like a blue, red or white color when the screen shows a dark background. These are called "lit" pixels. Alternatively, a "missing" pixel is one that shows no color.

• 2

  Download and install a free program like Dead Pixel if you are unsure if your screen is displaying dead pixels.

• 3

  Return your computer if you suspect that there may be a problem with the screen while it's under warranty. The manufacturer can check for all major issues. Most computer warranties cover dead pixels, but most specify a number of dead pixels that must exist to replace a screen. Dell, for example, require six dead pixels before it provides a full replacement.