Troubleshooting Black Screen Issues on Your PC: A Guide

If you’ve been experiencing unexpected black screens while using your computer, you’re not alone. Recently, a user reached out for assistance regarding persistent black screen issues that seem to occur primarily during gameplay, especially with Overwatch 2. Their experience highlights a common frustration that can arise in the world of PC gaming and use. Here’s an overview of the situation, diagnosis, and potential solutions.

Understanding the Issue

Over the past three weeks, the user encountered random black screens, where the computer tower remained powered on but the monitor displayed nothing. This problem often surfaced during gaming sessions, specifically when playing Overwatch 2. The timing of these blackouts varied; they could happen during the first match or even after multiple games.

Key Symptoms Identified:
– Black screens occurring during gameplay.
– Occasional black screens when no games are running.
– Difficulty booting, as the system sometimes hangs on a black screen upon restarting.
– A need to toggle between onboard graphics and the dedicated graphics card to successfully load the system.

Steps Taken

To address these issues, the user attempted several troubleshooting methods, including:

1. BIOS Upgrade: Keeping the BIOS up-to-date is critical for system stability.
2. Windows 11 Installation: Upgrading to the latest operating system can resolve compatibility issues.
3. Driver Updates: Ensuring that all drivers are updated can help with performance and stability.
4. HDMI Cable Replacement: Swapping out the cable was an effort to rule out connectivity issues.
5. Hardware Reseating: The user reseated RAM and graphics cards to ensure a secure connection.

Despite these initiatives, the problem persisted, indicating a deeper issue.

Possible Solutions

If black screens are affecting your PC, consider the following strategies:

• Monitor and Power Supply Check: Ensure that your monitor is functioning correctly and that all power connections are secure. A failing power supply can also lead to these issues.
• System Overheating: Check if the hardware is overheating during intensive tasks. Dust buildup in fans and heatsinks can lead to overheating, prompting system shutdowns or black screens.
• Graphics Card Issues: If the graphics card is failing or incompatible, it could result in display problems. Test with a different graphics card, if available.
• RAM Problems: Faulty RAM can cause random black screens. Running a