Member Avatar for impboy

I have an NEC MultiSync 700+ monitor that I've had for about 2 years. It just started making a clicking sound, shutting off and then immediately turning right back on. It does this about every 5 minutes or less. I just recently reinstalled my Windows XP. It use to do this before the reinstall but now it's crazy bad. The resolution is at 1024x768 and refresh rate at 60. Strangely enough, it doesn't do it when I'm playing Dark Age of Camelot (a MMORPG).

How do I get it to stop doing this? Don't tell me to unplug it or hit it with a sledgehammer. I'm already close to doing both of those.

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Dani AI

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That rhythmic click with the screen blanking and coming right back is classic CRT protection cycling. The high‑voltage or power supply briefly faults, the monitor shuts itself down, then restarts. Because full‑screen games often switch to a different resolution/refresh, the fact that it behaves in Dark Age of Camelot points to a mode‑dependent hardware issue inside the monitor rather than Windows or a virus. (repairfaq.org)

Before opening anything (do not; CRTs retain tens of kilovolts), do a few safe checks from the outside:

  • Reseat the IEC C13 power cord at the monitor and wall, or try a known‑snug cord. A loose C13/C14 fit can arc and cause momentary dropouts; locking or higher‑retention cords exist if the inlet is worn. Do not bend mains pins; replace the cord or inlet if it is sloppy. (interpower.com)
  • Try a different outlet and bypass any power strip.
  • As suggested, swap in another monitor to confirm the PC is not at fault.

Next, try a refresh change. Many NEC 17‑inch models of this era are designed to run 1024x768 closer to 75–85 Hz; 60 Hz is supported but not the sweet spot. In Windows XP: Display Properties > Settings > Advanced > Monitor, ensure "Hide modes this monitor cannot display" is checked, then set 75 or 85 Hz and test. The NEC M700 family manual lists 1024x768 at 55–87 Hz and recommends 85 Hz. (manualzilla.com)

If the clicking persists, it is very likely internal: high‑voltage arcing (flyback/anode area) or a failing power section (caps, HOT, regulator). Those faults commonly produce the exact snapping/cycling you hear and are not user‑serviceable. Given ’s observation about power connectors and ’s note about freezes, the safest path now is professional CRT service or replacement. Do not open the cabinet unless you are trained on CRT safety. (repairfaq.org)

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Member Avatar for Puckdropper

Do you have another monitor? Try unplugging the current one and plug in the other one. See if the problem still occurs.

Member Avatar for Lurch

I had this problem with a couple monitors (CRT). My problem turned out to be a loose power plug in the rear of the monitors. I replaced the power cords, but no change. Apparently, the male plug in the rear of the monitors had become a bit out of line. I took a pair of needle-nosed pliers and moved the m slightly to get a better connection. All fine now, but can drive ya nuts.

Member Avatar for avril

Do you have another monitor? Try unplugging the current one and plug in the other one. See if the problem still occurs.

Hi, yep tried to change monitor and also have checked all leads and plugs to and from it.
It clicks away quite merrily for at least 10 - 15 secs then the screen reappears freezes and the last screen sometimes still shows through.
Have been thinking new video graphics card maybe...
Prolly some nasty virus which Im gonna need to clean machine and reload everything :(
Thanks for your help :)

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