1. Loose or Damaged Ribbon Cables
- Cause: Internal flat cables (ribbon cables) connecting the T-Con board to the LCD panel may become loose or damaged.
- Symptoms: Flickering or static vertical lines that change when you press or tap the TV frame.
- Solution:
- Open the back panel and carefully reseat or replace the ribbon cables.
- Ensure all connections are tight and undamaged.
- Note: This should be done by a trained technician to avoid further damage.
2. Faulty T-Con (Timing Control) Board
- Cause: The T-Con board controls image timing and pixel alignment on the screen. A failure here can result in vertical lines.
- Symptoms: Consistent vertical lines, often appearing in the same location regardless of input source.
- Solution:
- Test and replace the T-Con board.
- Verify if lines appear during boot-up (without any input signal).
- Contact Refitec at 0704843613 for professional diagnosis and part replacement.
3. Panel (Screen) Damage
- Cause: Physical damage, manufacturing defects, or burnt-out pixels in the LCD/LED panel.
- Symptoms: Permanent lines that do not disappear and do not change regardless of input source.
- Solution:
- If the panel is cracked or defective, replacement is often the only fix.
- In some cases, panel repair is possible but costly and rarely recommended compared to full replacement.
4. Software or Firmware Issues
- Cause: Corrupted software, especially after updates or power outages.
- Symptoms: Lines may disappear after rebooting or may affect menus and UI.
- Solution:
- Perform a factory reset or firmware update from the settings menu.
- Check manufacturer’s website for the latest firmware version.
- If unsure, Refitec technicians can assist in flashing or updating your TV software.
5. Input Signal Problems
- Cause: Faulty HDMI cables, damaged ports, or problems with the signal source (e.g., decoder, gaming console).
- Symptoms: Lines appear only on certain HDMI inputs or while watching specific channels.
- Solution:
- Try switching HDMI cables and inputs.
- Test with a different device.
- If the problem disappears, the issue is with the external source, not the TV.
6. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Failure in Smart TVs
- Cause: The GPU in the TV’s motherboard may fail due to overheating or age.
- Symptoms: Permanent lines with other image distortions (color bleeding, ghosting).
- Solution:
- Requires professional inspection and motherboard replacement.
- Refitec offers advanced diagnosis for smart TVs.
✅ Summary of Causes and Solutions
| Cause | Symptoms | Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Loose ribbon cable | Lines change with touch or pressure | Reseat or replace ribbon cables |
| Faulty T-Con board | Consistent vertical lines | Replace T-Con board |
| Damaged panel | Permanent lines, no change with input | Replace panel (costly) |
| Software issues | Lines appear after update | Firmware update or factory reset |
| Signal/input issue | Lines appear only on HDMI or external input | Test new cable/source/device |
| GPU/motherboard issue | Lines plus other distortions | Replace motherboard |
👨🔧 When to Call a Technician
- Lines persist after changing input cables and performing a factory reset.
- You hear clicking or buzzing from the TV.
- The screen shows multiple vertical lines, flickering, or turns off completely.
- The TV has been dropped or exposed to water/humidity.
📞 Contact Refitec at 0704843613 or visit www.refitec.co.ke for expert diagnosis and affordable repair services in Nairobi and surrounding areas.
🛠️ Preventive Tips
- Use a voltage stabilizer to avoid damage from power surges.
- Ensure proper ventilation to prevent overheating.
- Avoid applying pressure on the TV screen when cleaning.
- Regularly update your TV’s firmware if you have a smart TV.
