How To Fix Samsung TV Half Black Screen? 10 Helpful Methods

If you’re finding how to fix Samsung TV half black screen, I have some helpful methods that can get your TV back to its initial state.

While it may not be the most common problem, it can occur for various reasons, such as hardware issues, loose connections, software glitches, or external device compatibility problems.

Now, I’ll walk you through 10 tried-and-true approaches ‘How to fix a Samsung TV half-screen dark’. So, let’s dive into my guides!

Why Is The Half Of The Samsung TV Black?

The half-black screen can be due to various reasons: physical damage, software issues, cable connections, faulty led strips, display panel failure, or faulty T-Con board.

Each issue impacts display integrity, resulting in the blackened half.

Let’s dive into each cause!

Physical Damage

If the TV takes a hit (a bump, a fall, or even a bit of rough handling while moving), its screen will be damaged.

The TV’s screen comprises layers that work together to display images.

When the TV experiences a jolt or impact, it can disrupt the delicate balance within these layers.

For example, the LCD or OLED panels, which are responsible for creating the visuals, might suffer damage.

Also, the connections that link various display components will come loose or become damaged.

The impact can interfere with the pixels’ operation, causing a specific screen’s area to go dark.

Software Issues

Your TV’s software controls how the pixels light up and create images.

Also, it instructs the hardware, including the display panel and other components, on how to render images.

If there’s a glitch in this software due to bugs, updates gone wrong, or even electronic hiccups, it’ll send mixed signals.

The half-black screen issue could arise due to a software update failure, conflicting apps, or even corrupted system files.

Similarly, firmware glitches can occur due to bugs in the TV’s internal code.

This problem can lead to improper screen rendering.

Loose Or Damaged Cable Connections

Inside your TV, there’s a web of cables connecting the display panel, the T-Con board, and other components.

If one of these cables gets loose or damaged, it’s like having a kink in a water hose: the flow of data gets disrupted.

When these connections are compromised, it’ll prevent the affected part of the screen from receiving the proper instructions to display images.

In essence, it’s like a communication breakdown within the TV’s internal network.

This problem leads to the blackened area on the screen, while the other part keeps chugging along.

Faulty LED Strips

The LED strips are the lights behind the screen that make everything bright.

The trouble comes when some of these strips stop working right.

This problem can be because they were made wrong or got old.

When a part of the LED strips doesn’t light up as it should, it makes one side of the screen darker.

Display Panel Failure

Your TV’s display panel includes tiny pixels to show you all the colors and images on the screen.

Now, if a portion of the pixels or the circuitry that controls them is damaged, you might end up with a section of your screen turning black.

This failure could be due to various reasons, like manufacturing defects, wear and tear over time, or even a sudden jolt that messes things up inside.

Since the display includes rows and columns of pixels, if some stop responding, it can create this distinct half-black screen effect.

Faulty T-Con Board

The T-Con board plays a crucial role by telling each pixel when to light up and when to turn out.

When this board is faulty, it’ll struggle to send the right signals to rows of pixels.

Like other TV hardware, this board will wear out over time.

And if your TV is using an old T-Con board, this problem will often occur.

So, half of your screen might get the memory to display images while the other half remains in the dark.

How To Fix Samsung TV Half Black Screen?

To fix this issue, ensure external devices and cables are good.

Some solutions include power-cycling the TV, changing the picture settings, updating the software, or even going for a factory reset.

You can examine the T-Con panel or swap out the backlight strips if it’s still bugging you and you have TV repair experience.

These tricks, from software to hardware, should sort you out!

Method 1: Power Cycle

The power cycle essentially reboots the TV’s internal components.

I often use this method to fix temporary problems like software hiccups, memory issues, or corrupted data causing the half-black screen.

Here’s how to do this:

Step 1: Turn off and unplug the TV

Step 2: Wait

Give it around 2-3 minutes to let any lingering power dissipate.

This brief pause can help clear out any temporary issues causing this problem.

Step 3: Plug it back in and turn it on

Reconnect the TV to the power outlet. Then, power on the TV.

It might take a moment for it to boot up.

This method often works because it helps reset various components and connections, resolving temporary glitches causing the problem.

If the problem persists after trying this, you should try other methods below.

Method 2: Troubleshoot The External Device

Addressing external device-related issues can fix this issue because sometimes, a malfunctioning or improperly connected device can interfere with the TV’s display performance.

To do this, you must temporarily disconnect the external device like gaming consoles, streaming devices, or cable boxes and observe if the TV’s screen returns to normal.

This step can help pinpoint if the device is causing the issue.

If you suspect a faulty connection, follow these steps:

Step 1: Disconnect external devices

Step 2: Turn off the tv

Step 3: Unplug the tv and wait for a few minutes

Step 4: Plug the tv back in and turn it on

Step 5: Check internal content

Switch to internal content, like the TV’s built-in apps or a regular TV channel.

See if the half-black screen issue persists.

Step 6: Connect external devices one by one

Reconnect each external device individually and check if any of them triggers the half-black screen problem.

Method 3: Hit The Bezel

The bezel is the frame of the TV screen’s frame.

Over time, connections within the TV might become loose due to vibrations or minor physical impacts.

In this case, I often use a gentle tap to reseat these connections and restore normal display function.

To do this, use the side of your hand or your knuckles to tap along the bezel adjacent to the blacked-out portion gently.

Avoid excessive force, as the goal is to jostle internal components slightly.

Normally, this method might work for minor issues.

But it’s not a permanent solution and should be used cautiously to avoid causing further damage.

Method 4: Check The HDMI Cable And Port

Next, check your HDMI cable and port.

A loose or damaged HDMI cable or port can disrupt the data flow between the TV and the external device, causing display issues like a half-black screen.

Step 1: Power off the TV

Step 2: Inspect the HDMI cable

Examine the HDMI cable connected to the TV and the external device.

Look for any visible damage like bends, cuts, or fraying.

Step 3: Disconnect and reconnect

Carefully unplug the HDMI cable (from both the external device and the TV).

Then, securely plug it back into both ends.

Step 4: Use a different HDMI port

If your TV has multiple HDMI ports, try switching to a different one.

Sometimes, a specific port might have issues.

Step 5: Power on the TV and device.

If the half-black screen problem occurs due to the HDMI cable and port, now your TV can work again.

Method 5: Try A Picture Test

This test helps identify whether the issue is intrinsic to the TV or external factors, specifically:

• If the TV displays content correctly during this process but not with the source, the problem could be the source device, the cable, or the settings.
• If the issue persists even during the picture test, it’s a problem with the TV.

Follow these steps for this test:

Step 1: Go to Settings.

Step 2: Navigate to “Device Care.”

Step 3: Select “Self Diagnosis.”

Step 4: Choose “Picture Test.”

Step 5: Confirm your selection by clicking “OK.”

Step 6: Examine the picture displayed.

You can respond with “Yes” if the picture is normal, “No” if there’s a problem, or “Show again” for another view.

If you own an older version of the TV ( 2021 and earlier), follow these steps to test it:

1/ Access Settings on your TV.

2/ Proceed to “Support” and select “Self Diagnosis.”

3/ Choose “Picture Test” and follow the on-screen instructions.

By carrying out this test, you’ll know whether the TV is causing this problem or if external factors are to blame.

Then, you can decide on the appropriate troubleshooting steps or repairs needed.

Method 6: Reset Picture Settings

Sometimes, incorrect picture settings can cause display anomalies. Here’s how to go about it:

Step 1: Access Picture Settings

Use your Samsung TV remote control to navigate to Settings.

Then, scroll through the settings options and choose the Picture option.

Step 2: Find and select Expert Settings.

Step 3: Scroll down until you locate the Reset Picture option.

Note: If this option is gray, ensure you don’t have any apps running in the background.

Step 4: Confirm the reset

Step 5: TV restart

After confirming the reset, your TV will restart. It’s normal and part of the process.

Resetting the picture settings can help eliminate incorrect settings that might cause display issues like a half-black screen.

If the problem was due to settings misconfigurations, this method should rectify it.

Method 7: Update System Software

I usually use this method if the above methods do not solve the problem.

Besides fixing the half-black screen, software updates often include bug fixes and improvements that can resolve display-related issues.

Step 1: Access System Settings

Step 2: Find System Software Update

Look for “Software Update” within the settings menu.

It might be under “General” or a similar category.

Step 3: Check for Updates

Select “Software Update” and then choose “Check for Updates.”

Your TV will now search for any available updates.

Step 4: Install available Updates

If there’s an update, follow the on-screen prompts to install it.

Your TV might need to restart during this process.

Then, allow the TV to complete the installation of the updates.

Step 5: Restart TV

After installing the updates, your TV might prompt you to restart it.

If not, you must manually power off and then power on the TV.

Method 8: Reset To Factory Settings

Resetting to factory settings essentially wipes out any customized settings and returns your TV to its original state when you first purchased it.

So it can help eliminate complex software issues.

Step 1: Access Settings

Step 2: Reset

Look for the General or Support category within the settings menu.

Inside this section, find the option labeled “Reset” or “Factory Reset.”

Then, choose this option to initiate the process.

A confirmation message will appear, warning that it’ll erase all settings. Confirm that you want to proceed.

Step 3: Enter the security PIN

If prompted, enter the security PIN for your TV.

The default is often “0000” unless you’ve changed it.

Once confirmed, the TV will begin the factory reset process in a few minutes.

Note: This action will erase all your settings and installed apps.

Method 9: Replace The Backlight Strips

Next, I’ll guide you through replacing the backlight strips.

This method addresses hardware-related problems that might be causing the uneven display.

But I recommend taking these steps only if you have the knowledge and technique of repairing electronic devices.

Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Turn off and unplug

Ensure your TV is turned off and unplugged from the power outlet to ensure your safety.

Step 2: Remove the bezel

Gently remove the frame (bezel) around the TV screen.

This step involves unscrewing screws or using a plastic pry tool to pop off the bezel.

Step 3: Access the backlight strips

Once the bezel is off, access the backlight strips. These are usually behind the screen panel.

Step 4: Detach old backlight strips

Carefully detach the old backlight strips from their connectors. Take note of their positions and connections.

Step 5: Attach new backlight strips

Connect the new backlight strips in the same positions as the old ones.

Step 6: Reassemble

Put the bezel back on and secure it in place. Make sure you tighten all screws and align the frame.

Step 7: Power on

Note: This process involves opening up your TV, so you must do this cautiously.

If you’re uncomfortable with these steps, I recommend seeking the assistance of a pro technician.

Method 10: Examine The T-Con Panel

If the above doesn’t solve the problem, check the T-Con panel. Here’s the process:

Step 1: Turn off and unplug the TV

Step 2: Locate the T-Con panel

Open the back panel of your TV and locate this panel.

It’s usually at the center-top or center-bottom area of the TV’s backside.

Step 3: Check connections

Inspect the cables and connectors attached to this panel. Ensure they’re secure and properly connected.

Step 4: Look for damage

Examine the panel for visible signs of damage like burnt components, loose parts, or visible corrosion.

Step 5: Reconnect if needed

If any connections are loose, carefully reconnect them. Make sure the cables are plugged in snugly.

Step 6: Replace if necessary

If you notice significant damage to this board, you must replace it.

Ensure you have the suitable replacement part before proceeding.

Step 7: Reassemble and test

Put the TV’s back panel back on, plug in the TV, and power it on.

Like replacing the backlight strips, these steps require specialized knowledge and skills.

So if you are not confident about the implementation process, skip this way.

If you’ve exhausted all the DIY fixes and that pesky half-black screen on your Samsung TV still persists, don’t fret.

It’s time to reach out to Samsung’s customer support.

You can find their contact details in your TV manual or on their website.

Describe the issue and the steps you’ve taken, and they’ll guide you through more advanced solutions or arrange for a technician to take a closer look.

How To Fix Black Screen But Has Sound?

This problem can be caused by various factors, often stemming from either hardware or software problems.

It’s easy to fix with the following steps:

Step 1: Check the cables

First, make sure all your cables are snugly connected.

Sometimes a loose cable can cause a black screen.

Double-check the HDMI, DisplayPort, or other video cables connecting your device to the monitor or TV.

Step 2: Restart the device

If your screen is black due to a software glitch, a restart could fix it.

To do this, hold down the power button until the device turns off.

Wait for a few seconds and turn it back.

Step 3: Factory reset

If all else fails, consider a factory reset. Just remember, this wipes your settings.

Step 4: Hardware check

There might be a hardware issue if none of the software solutions work.

It could be a malfunctioning graphics card or another internal component.

If none of these steps yield results, I recommend seeking pro help.

Can I Reset My TV With Black Screen Without A Remote?

The answer is yes. A remote can make things a lot easier, but if you don’t have one handy, you can still solve this problem.

Usually, to reset a Samsung TV, you’d use the remote to access the menu and find the reset option.

Since you’re remote-less, here’s a workaround:

Step 1: Unplug the TV and wait 10 – 15 minutes

Step 2: Power up

On your TV, find the power and the volume down buttons.

Hold down both of these buttons together.

At the same time, ask another person to plug the TV back into the power source.

Step 3: Navigate the reset

As the TV powers back up, follow the instructions popping up on the screen.

They’ll guide you through the reset process.

Remember, this is a bit of a workaround, and it might not work in all situations.

You should still have a remote to control the TV more effectively.

FAQs

Why Does My Samsung TV Middle Have A Shadow?

It might be caused by uneven backlighting, where certain screen areas receive less illumination.

Another possibility is image retention, where static images temporarily “burn in” on the screen, creating a shadow-like effect.

Also, panel issues or defects could contribute to this phenomenon.

What Does TV Ghosting Look Like?

TV ghosting appears as faint duplicate images or trails behind moving objects.

It’s often caused by slow pixel response times, resulting in blurred or overlapping images during fast-paced scenes.

Is The Half-Black Screen Problem Covered Under Samsung’s Warranty?

It depends on the TV’s age, warranty terms, and the specific cause of the issue.

Thus, I recommend checking your TV’s warranty documentation or contacting Samsung’s customer support for clarity.

Should I Open Up My Samsung Tv To And Fix The Half-Black Screen?

I don’t recommend this unless you’re experienced in electronics repair.

It can void warranties, risk further damage, and cause safety hazards.

Conclusion

Hopefully, my guides on how to fix the Samsung TV half black screen above can help you solve your problem.

Whether it’s a loose cable or a hidden software hiccup, troubleshooting is now easy.

If one method doesn’t do the trick, no worries, try another.

And if all else fails, there’s no shame in reaching out for pro help.

Now, fix that screen and enjoy your favorite shows without glitches holding you back!

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