Can HDMI Cables Cause Flickering?

A Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) TV can flicker for several reasons. It can happen because of an improper connection to the video source or imperfect lighting conditions. But the question is, can HDMI cable be the cause of an LCD flickering? 

The answer to this question depends on several factors, which we will explore in this article. 

Can HDMI Cables Cause Flickering?

Yes.

HDTVs get their input via coaxial, HDMI, or component connections. If any of these connections aren’t secured properly, you may see some screen flickering issues. This can also happen if the HDMI cable is moved or damaged, which may cause the connection to break for a split second.  

So, your HDMI cable can cause flickering issues, but it’s also important to remember that this isn’t a common problem. It’s more likely that the interface of your HDMI’s source or your TV is responsible for this problem. If that is the case, regardless of the HDMI cable you use, the problem will persist. 

A bent cable can also be damaged in a way that causes the video feed to come through at an incomplete or irregular rate. This may eventually cause screen inconsistencies (flickering problems). 

Consider getting a new HDMI cable if the flickering is only happening because of a single video source, like a gaming console, Blu-ray player, antenna, or cable box. 

Disconnecting then reconnecting the cable is a good idea. But sometimes, a faulty HDMI port can be the problem. 

Why Does My HDMI Keep Flickering? 

There are several reasons why your display can flicker after being connected to an HDMI cable. Here are some of the most common reasons. 

1. Refresh Rate

You can often get rid of the flickering problems on your TV by increasing its refresh rate. Your TV’s or any display’s refresh rate decides how often it will refresh every second. Your TV updates the display several times in a second to form the movie, video, or show you watch. 

So technically, your TV is always refreshing, but this happens so fast that humans can’t notice it. The higher the refresh rate a TV has, the smoother the video quality will be. 

On the other hand, if the refresh rate is too low, the person watching may be able to see the display flickering. You may notice the display flickering more often in a room that is well lit. 

2. Cable Problems

 

As we mentioned earlier, a defective or loose HDMI cable can also be the culprit in this case since your TV will receive disrupted information. If the cable is loose, you can reconnect it to solve the problem. If the pins are bent, you can try straightening them; however, we would recommend getting a new cable altogether in this case. 

In some cases, a TV can also flicker because of a faulty port. To know if this is the problem, try using the different ports. 

3. Magnetic Fields

If there’s an electronic device near your TV, it will produce a magnetic field that may make the display flicker. It would be best if you moved all electronic devices like phones and fans away from your TV to stop this. 

Moreover, erroneous ground and electrical interference from power outlets can also cause your TV to flicker. Try connecting your TV to another power outlet to see if the problem persists. 

4. The Room’s Lightening

You may also have to eliminate or decrease the fluorescent lighting to get rid of the flickering problem. Plasma TVs are notorious for having flickering problems caused by the refresh rate, and if your room has fluorescent lighting, this becomes a lot more apparent. 

Some people claim that they’re sensitive to this issue.

How Do I Stop My HDMI TV from Flickering?

1. TV Problems

A failing or loose connection inside the TV can also cause the problem. The flickering will happen consistently, even if your HDMI cable, port, or the TV’s refresh rates are not causing the problem. Issues like these indicate your TV is taking its final breaths, and only a technician can save you in this case. 

If you have a warranty, now is when you start the claims process. 

2. Get a New HDMI Cable

An old HDMI cable can often start malfunctioning, which leads to a blank screen flickering problem. To solve this, consider following this procedure:

• Turn off the device you’re using.
• Now remove the HDMI cable.
• Plug the HDMI cable into a laptop.
• Ensure you plug the cable into the device. A weak connection can also cause flickering problems.
• Upon a successful connection, the screen will have a two-second delay (the system is sourcing the new video.)
• Keep this device running with the HDMI cable you’ve plugged in.

If the displays flicker, it’s obvious the HDMI cable is causing the problem, and you should consider getting a new HDMI cable.  However, if it doesn’t, move to the second step of troubleshooting.

3. Dirt in the Port

While this isn’t common, your display can flicker because of dirt build-up, too. This usually happens when you haven’t used your HDMI cable in a long time. If you’re using it for the first time, or after a long time, clean the HDMI port gently with a tissue. Excessive dirt can also cause connection problems. 

4. Have You Connected the Cable Properly?

As we mentioned earlier, not plugging the HDMI cable all the way in is a common mistake people make. This causes signal interruptions which leads to a blank screen or a flickering problem. Make sure the HDMI cable fits perfectly into the port. If you push it in too hard, it can disintegrate both the port and the cable. So remember to be gentle yet effective. 

Conclusion

A TV can flicker because of a faulty HDMI cable or a defective port, but it’s essential to remember that other problems can cause the issue, too. We hope this article answered your questions. If it didn’t, consider having your TV checked by a technician. 

FAQ

Can an old HDMI cable cause flickering?

Yes. 

An HDMI cable that isn’t working properly or an old cable can cause signal interruptions, leading to identification failures or screen flickering issues.