How to Fix Black Screen Issue on Smart TV (Samsung)?

By Kevin ArrowsUpdated on July 18, 2024

Kevin is a certified Network Engineer

When your Samsung Smart TV shows a black screen, it can be quite frustrating. This issue often means the TV is not displaying any video output despite being powered on. The most common cause is a problem with the backlight, HDMI connections, or a malfunctioning source device.

Additionally, connectivity problems with cables or other inputs can also lead to this issue.

To diagnose the issue, check all cable connections and ensure they are secure and undamaged. Verify that external sources such as DVD players or cable boxes are functioning correctly by pressing the Menu button on your remote—if the menu appears, the external sources are likely at fault.

Incorrect input settings can also cause a black screen; ensure your TV is set to the proper input.

If the TV goes black unexpectedly, deactivating any sleep timers or power saver modes might help.

In some instances, a hardware malfunction, such as a faulty circuit board, panel, or LED, could be the culprit, necessitating professional servicing.

1. Ensure Proper Cable Connection

First, verify that there is a proper cable connection between the external devices and your TV.

Disconnect and then securely reconnect all cables to ensure there are no loose connections.

Also, test the power cable and the power supply to ensure they are functioning correctly.

If the problem persists after verifying connections, inspect the cables for damage.

Replace any damaged cables and see if the issue is resolved.

Additionally, you could try moving the HDMI cable to another port to test for functionality. If the problem remains, move on to the next solution.

2. Double-Check the Sources

To see if the source is the problem, press the Menu button on your remote control. If the menu shows up, your TV is in working order, indicating the connected sources are problematic. The sources in question could be your SAT Box, Cable Box, DVD Player, Amazon Fire Stick, Roku, and others.

Examine these sources to confirm they are working properly. Power off the sources and then turn them back on to resolve any temporary issues.

If this doesn’t work, try connecting the suspected source to a different TV or a different source to your TV. This will help determine if the source is indeed the issue.

3. Set the TV Input Correctly

A black screen could result from an incorrect TV input setting. Use the Source button on your remote to navigate through the input selections and confirm that they are set properly.

Make sure the TV input corresponds with the correct device. You may also cycle through all inputs to verify that each device is connected to the appropriate input, which could solve the problem.

4. Turn Off the Power Saver/Sleep Timer

Power saver/Sleep timer can cause the screen to go black if activated. By switching off these settings, you eliminate the possibility that these power-saving measures are the reason behind the issue. This simple check could easily bring your display back to life as it ensures that the TV stays on during your viewing period.

Press the Menu button on your remote.
Select System, then Time.
Choose Sleep Timer and set it to Off.
Disabling the sleep timer
Press the Menu button on your remote.
Navigate to Settings and select Energy Saving Mode.
Set the mode to Off.
Deactivating energy-saving mode

5. Update the Firmware of Your TV

The firmware is essentially the operating system of your TV, and an update can bring improvements, bug fixes, and patches for known issues, including the infamous black screen.

When you update the firmware, you’re equipping your TV with the latest software enhancements developed by Samsung, which can resolve underlying problems that might be contributing to the screen staying dark despite the TV being powered on.

Press the Menu button on your remote.
Select Settings, then Support, and choose Software Update.
Click Update Now.

Your TV will initiate the update process, automatically downloading and installing any new updates. After the update finishes, your TV will restart, potentially resolving the black screen issue.

6. Reset Your TV

A reset will revert the settings to their original defaults, delete all data, and remove any software bugs or glitches. By doing so, you’re erasing any temporary configurations that might be causing the screen to display incorrectly.

This reset restores your Samsung Smart TV’s settings to their factory defaults, potentially resolving software glitches that could be responsible for the black screen issue without requiring complex troubleshooting. It’s a straightforward and often effective way to get things back to normal.

Press the Menu button on your remote control.
Go to Settings, then Support.
Select Self Diagnosis and then Reset.
Input your PIN when prompted (the default is 0000).
Once the reset is complete, follow the on-screen instructions to reconfigure your TV.

7. Seek Professional/Technical Help

In case none of the mentioned solutions work, it may be time to consider professional repair services. If your TV is still under warranty, you can seek warranty service. Otherwise, find a qualified technician to diagnose and repair your TV. Unless you are fully confident in your repair skills, do not attempt to fix the TV on your own. Professional technicians have the expertise to identify and replace faulty components, effectively addressing the black screen problem.

By Kevin ArrowsUpdated on July 18, 2024

Kevin is a certified Network Engineer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kevin Arrows

Kevin Arrows is a highly experienced and knowledgeable technology specialist with over a decade of industry experience. He holds a Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) certification and has a deep passion for staying up-to-date on the latest tech developments. Kevin has written extensively on a wide range of tech-related topics, showcasing his expertise and knowledge in areas such as software development, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. His contributions to the tech field have been widely recognized and respected by his peers, and he is highly regarded for his ability to explain complex technical concepts in a clear and concise manner.

Comments

Todd Noss Feb 11, 2020

my issue with my smart tv is that the tv screen started to flicker , then went black, there was a clicking noise coming from the upper right corner of the tv, the stand by light was flashing then it too went off……anyone else have problems with these symptoms

Shane Warren Author Feb 12, 2020

It might be a hardware issue if the screen was flashing. Is the TV turning on right now?

'Po Feb 28, 2020

Same here. Did you find a fix yet?

Shane Warren Author Feb 29, 2020

Most likely a hardware issue because flickering shouldn’t be caused by any software issue.

Stephanie Bedell Guida Feb 19, 2020

How can I try to update the firmware or do a reset if the screen is black? When I go to the menu I don’t see anything on the screen. I have audio. No picture.

Shane Warren Author Feb 24, 2020

You can try following the instructions along with the pictures maybe? or maybe from an internet video of the TVs menu? this article was written in general and it includes users who are facing this issue from time to time instead of permanently.

Ree Jul 8, 2020

You could try not being an asshole when people are asking valid questions ! The woman had a valid point, if the screen is BLACK you can’t see ANYTHING, this includes menu controls. So OBVIOUSLY an article that’s supposed to be helping people with screen issues doesn’t help if the commands on the screen can’t be SEEN !!!!

Shane Warren Author Jul 9, 2020

I wasn’t being rude in any way I included a valid instruction that can help her in fixing this issue. We aren’t the official support for Samsung TVs and are doing community service to people by writing this guide without any sponsorship from Samsung so we don’t have all Samsung Smart TV models to actually test these out and include detailed instructions. We do our research and write these guides. Please try to be less entitled in your future endeavors on the internet. Thank you

Krishna Rao Nov 25, 2020

on my Samsung TV the screen is not coming on. No picture and no audio. Nothing shows on the screen. No menu. Only the power LED blinks. I have tried to reset button from the tv. But still it is silent. Kindly advice.

Muhammad Zubyan Author Nov 25, 2020

You will have to get your LED repaired as it can be the issue with your LED’s backlight or your T-con board might be expired.

pepina Mar 1, 2020

Samsung 60″… slightly over 2 years old .. no picture, no sound. Wasn’t a ‘cheapie.” After “premature failure” of a Samsung washer, Samsung refrigerator and now a Samsung TV .. I suspect I am done with that brand.

Ice Mar 29, 2020

Me too TV and refrigerator. Samsung sucks time to change brand

RJ Glaser Mar 22, 2020

What if my TV will turn on, then cut off to a black screen while background music is playing? sometimes I can press the menu button and it will come up but other times the remotes become unresponsive. The tv will shut off a few seconds later then will turn on again. I see it happen both when I am watching cable and while I am using my xbox, although it happens more when I am on xbox. what should I do?

Shane Warren Author Mar 24, 2020

Get it checked because this is more likely a hardware issue with the TV so you need to get it in for service.

Bill Moore Apr 3, 2020

My samsung tv will not allow me to go back to the hdm1 or 2 connection from the “tv” connection..

Shane Warren Author Apr 4, 2020

Can u please elaborate? are you facing a black screen with the TV or not? Also, does the TV respond to the remote?

Tony Apr 22, 2020

My screen went black and nothing seems to fix it. The sound was on only, and at one point the screen came on again, then went off again. Now the sound doesn’t come on at all, after trying to check all cables and connections. frustrated!!

Shane Warren Author Apr 26, 2020

Most likely a hardware issue, are you under warranty and have you tried all the solutions listed in the article?

Nixon Apr 23, 2020

My tv just went blank and doesn’t respond to remote commands but you can adjust volume

Shane Warren Author Apr 25, 2020

If you’ve tried the workarounds listed in this article, it is most likely an issue with the hardware.

Dennis Linden May 4, 2020

Samsung UN60ES6100FXZA turns on without a picture and noted previously WIFI did not work. I removed the back , then removed power board cable to main board and did get full display backlight. With cables connected, on the BN44-00524A, I had all voltages for est 2 seconds and then they dropped to zero and back at the CNM801 20 Pin connector on the power board going to the main board BN94-05683M. Removing cable from power to main board, I had steady voltages on all 20 pins of CNM801 on power board. All capacitors look good, with overall appearance good.

Shane Warren Author May 5, 2020

Probably an issue with the components. I’m sorry I won’t be able to help you with the hardware issue, it is best to get it in for service.

Arun May 29, 2020

Had the same issue, re connected the cables, the black screen still kept occuring. After restarting the tv ,the screen is fine, but then blackout. Finally, reconnected the tv power while on.
Currently it is working without the problem.

William Santo Jun 11, 2020

I connect my Samsung smart curve TV to internet for two hour i switch off and sleep at morning i switch on the TV no picture only sound I wander what wrong on my TV up now 3day no any picture1 my suspect in one connect cable
2 one connect box damage
3 internet ici connect the problem
Plz help me im suffering due covid 19 all Samsung agent close in our country
Thank William Santo

Shane Warren Author Jun 11, 2020

Hello, if there isn’t any picture and sound is coming, it means that there might have been a power burst which could’ve damaged the TV’s hardware but still try replacing the cables and connect it in another socket. If it doesn’t fix it, it is most likely a hardware fault.

Earl Bienz Jul 2, 2020

I tried all but nothing happened

Shane Warren Author Jul 3, 2020

do you get any sound when you TV turns on? if you cannot seem to fix it using all these fixes then I’m afraid there might be a hardware issue.

Earl Bienz Jul 3, 2020

Sounds is ok but the screen is not good it have black on the left side

Shane Warren Author Jul 3, 2020

Then it is most definitely a hardware issue. Best to get it in for service and have them fix the screen for you

Earl Bienz Jul 4, 2020

Thank you!

Dick Martin Jul 19, 2020

“Smart”Tv 55 inch often goes black, no sound, but menu does come on screen. It appears that tv was not seeing signals coming from either hdmi port. I was able to get it working by unplugging tv power, but it has happened before. Firmware is up to date. Do you think it needs a software fix? Could it be erratic power coming from a defective power strip? Or is it a hardware problem?

Shane Warren Author Jul 20, 2020

Seems like it would be a software issue but it can also be related to hardware, try to check for any available software updates, otherwise it might be a hardware strip on the TV that might be getting disconnected.

Dick Martin Jul 20, 2020

Thanks, I’ll check it out. It is intermittant so I am waiting for it to conk out again. I will write back if I come up with anything.

SEEBAY Jul 26, 2020

If you’re facing a black screen but the sound is ok… turn on the flashlight to see that if there’s a picture but dull if there is it’s most probably the hardware issue (LED TV)

Bill Dwinell Nov 3, 2020

Samsung TV turned and the turned off in 10 seconds. Went black on all channels and no sound. Spectrum repair man said I may have a lamp problem.
Help!!!

Muhammad Zubyan Author Nov 4, 2020

Unfortunately, after further investigation, it seems like this is a backlight issue ( I think from Lamp issue he means backlight issue) so it would be best if you just let the repairman fix this issue for you. There isn’t any tip or trick that you can do to fix this issue but I suggest you if you have any spare display cable try using that cable first as it can be the issue of broken wires as well. Keep us updated!

Mary Nov 19, 2020

TV screen black

I can hear the cable on but not showing picture.

We unplugged it
We tried to reset it
We make sure everything was all connected
We tried to reset it but we cant see anything on the screen.

what do you think ? anything will help

Muhammad Zubyan Author Nov 20, 2020

Use a flashlight and angle it against the screen with the TV at a station where you can hear the sound See if you can make out shadows or shapes if you can see shapes and shadows then it’s most likely your backlight is damaged and you will have to get your TV repaired if you aren’t able to see the shapes and shadows then it can be the issue with your T-Con board or Power board issue. In any case, you will have to get your TV Repaired by a professional so double-check with your repairmen about what can be the issue.

claudia Nov 20, 2020

hi my tv is black screen and sound is ok.I have changed power cord and it seems is not the problem, was not solved.With control, no menu no source is possible to see in the screen.So nothing to do. For the last months I have been receiving a message when tried to use netflix: smart hub is updating or something like that.Is this related with the current problem? Is there something that I can do for fixing ? thank you

Muhammad Zubyan Author Nov 20, 2020

Sugar Nov 22, 2020

Hi,my TV Samsung Smart TV black screen after switched on, on screen has words SMART TV. no command, only these words are on every 1 min. please help me to turn on something. I guess it is Dynamic mode. but not remote control and TV dont get a any command

Muhammad Zubyan Author Nov 25, 2020

You will have to get your LED repaired as it can be the issue with your LED’s backlight or your T-con board might be expired.

London J Frisco Nov 30, 2020

Ok, my tv comes on and has soundbut no picture. I can’t even see the menu or anything when i push the buttons. Can only hear everything. Tried all the above solutions and nothing. No one has a solution that I can try that doesn’t involve seeing menus?? No codes to reset or restore or something??? I’m broke people!?!

Muhammad Zubyan Author Dec 1, 2020

Unfortunately, I think that you will have to get your TV repaired as it seems like your TV’s backlight is damaged or your T-con board might be expired.

Allow Me, LLC Feb 26, 2021

Black screen, good audio, menu does not show either

Muhammad Zubyan Author Feb 27, 2021

First of all, try to use a different cord check however if that doesn’t work for you try using a flashlight against the screen if you can see the shapes and shadows being formed it’s most likely that your backlight needs to be repaired or your T-con board have expired which can only be fixed a professional. In any case, you will have to get your TV Repaired by a professional so double-check with your repairmen about what can be the issue.

Dion Saenz May 7, 2021

When using the TV to watch anything on the apps or cable…..there is a black screen, but you can see the picture (blackedout) and hear them. When you go to the cable and app menus everything looks fine. So how can the actual programs be blacked out but the start screens for the apps and cable be fine? If there was a picture failure wouldn’t it be all the time?

Muhammad Zubyan Author May 14, 2021

You are right if the menus are working fine there is no problem with your LCD or Backlight you might be facing a Software issue or the Input you are using is not working properly so here are some things that you can try. First of all, remove all the inputs from your TV and plug out the switch of your TV as well, wait for at least 30 seconds. Now plug the TV back in and check to see if the issue still persists.

If it does persist, you can try to change the Input and check if there is something wrong with the input that is connected to the TV. If that doesn’t help you either you will have to reset your TV I personally suggest you try and reset Picture settings first if that doesn’t help you factory reset your whole TV, you can head over to this official website from Samsung to know how to diagnose and factory reset your TV

https://www.samsung.com/us/support/answer/ANS00077524/

If none of these worked for you, you will have to contact Samsung support so that they can assist you further.

Donna Thomas May 13, 2021

Samsung 6500 turned on this morning to black screen and no audio and cannot bring up the menu. When I first turn it on, the band comes up along the bottom showing Netflix, you tube, hulu, etc. The source shows up at the top but that is all.

Muhammad Zubyan Author May 17, 2021

It seems like a software bug instead of a hardware issue. Try power-cycling your TV, Follow these steps:-

1. Remove any input that’s going into your TV.
2. Plug out the power switch of your TV and wait for at least 30 seconds.
3. Attach the inputs to your TV again and plug the switch back in.
4. Start your TV and check to see if the issue persists.

Greg Stevenson Jul 1, 2021

I have a Samsung tv Model LA26B450C4D that is a problem. Sometimes I turn it on and it works OK and then I turn it off and on again and I have no picture, just sound. I have done ALL the Samsung checks and tests with no success and replaced the cable coming from the wall socket to the tv but still have the same problem. The tv is driving me made as it works sometimes and other times it works but with no picture HELP

Muhammad Zubyan Author Jul 28, 2021

I had a similar issue with my TV it turned out that the issue was with the HDMI cable, check if that’s the case for you. If you have already checked the cables and there is no issue with them I suggest you to contact a technician as it can be an issue with your TV’s backlight.

Joshua Tsang Jul 5, 2021

my Samsung smart TV 55″ used about 2.5 years but a column of black shadow appear suddenly, How to fit it? Thanks!

Muhammad Zubyan Author Jul 6, 2021

Try changing the aspect ratio of your screen, follow these steps to change the aspect ratio of your TV:-

1. Press the Menu button on your Remote.
2. Select Picture Settings.
3. Select Screen Adjustments.
4. Now from this screen, try different aspect ratios and check which one suits you best.

Tony Vellucci Nov 12, 2021

When I turn on my Samsung TV 43″ after a few seconds I get a black screen no picture only audio. I can use the remote but can not see anything. I checked the connections they seem find. Also have another Samsung 23″ TV in my house and no issue with the TV.

Muhammad Zubyan Author Nov 14, 2021

There is something wrong with either your backlight or the board of your TV. You will have to hire a professional technician to get your issue resolved.

Tony Vellucci Nov 14, 2021

thank you

Joseph Baranyai Nov 27, 2021

I have my computer connected to my Samsung TV, tried to update the TV software but it says not connected to the internet, yet I have Facebook and can get all video’s and so on, what am I doing wrong ?