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What is Degauss and how do I do it?

Summary: Degaussing typically is the action of removing unwanted magnetic effects that can build up in a computer monitor.

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Symptoms

See Resolution Section.

Cause

See Resolution Section.

Resolution

Degauss the monitor.
 

A cathode ray tube (CRT) monitor displays information about the screen by using a stream of electrons controlled by magnetic fields. Nearby external magnetic forces, such as an unshielded pair of speakers or another monitor and the earth's own magnetic field can cause the image displayed by the monitor to become distorted and the colors to change.

 

Most of the newer monitors automatically degauss whenever they are turned on. Some also have a control to manually degauss the CRT. If you experience image distortion, perform the following steps:

  • Turn the monitor off, wait a few seconds and then power the monitor back on.

  • Move electrical devices such as speakers, radios, cellphones, or other monitors or TV units away from the monitor.

  • Try turning the monitor 90 degrees to see if the distortion changes after a few hours, which help indicate whether external factors are an issue.

  • Check the monitor documentation to see if this particular model has a degauss button. If you can locate a degauss button, press it.

 

Browse to the Dell Community Forum for More Information.
 

Browse to the Dell Community Forums to find out what others in the Dell user community are saying. The Dell Community Forums provide a place for Dell users to discuss support topics, to learn, and to help each other. Use the message boards to post questions and answers.

Article Properties
Article Number: 000155860
Article Type: Solution
Last Modified: 17 Aug 2024
Version:  6
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