How to handle stuck pixels
November 24, 2005

Submitted by: Roy, via e-mail
I just received my new monitor and noticed one dead pixel and another one that is working partially. I called the manufacturer who told me that there is a 90 percent chance to have from one to six blown pixels on a 19-inch LCD monitor. Is there anything I can do? Should I send it back?

Lara Luepke, Assistant editor
A couple of stuck or dead pixels are expected on any LCD. However, if they're especially bothersome, say, in the middle of the screen, you should argue your way to a new unit, especially if it's still under warranty. Two misbehaving pixels isn't bad for a 19-inch monitor, though, and you could very well exchange it only to receive a monitor with more than two pixel defects. Though if you're intolerant of any dead or stuck pixels, I suggest that you buy from a company such as Philips, which offers a no-dead-pixel guarantee.

Also, if you're the risk-taking type, you can try massaging stuck pixels back to life. Simply wrap your finger in a soft cloth (not a paper towel) and very gently rub your finger over the offending pixel for a few seconds. While doing this, it helps to have a movie or color changes on the screen to stimulate the pixel. But be careful if you choose to do this: pressing too hard could cause more damage.

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