M1530 HDMI Problem

The HDMI output on my computer suddenly started having a problem. Every 2-3 seconds there is a very short delay. The audio will quickly repeat and the video will freeze up for a split second. Also, the mouse pointer will freeze for a split second. This problem only occurs when I have the HDMI cable plugged in. It was working fine until about 3 days ago. The only program that I installed in that time frame was links 2003 and I uninstalled it when I noticed the HDMI issue. Any ideas? Thanks in advance.

Phil

 

Sounds like you need to have your motherboard replaced. The HDMI port in the m1530 has a high failure rate.

 

Why does everyone automatically assume it's a motherboard problem? Easiest answer? If the M1530 has serious "HDMI Port issues" then you're the only one who seems to know.

Phil,

First easy check -swap the HDMI cable. Only about 50% of HDMI cables are any good, so always get the cheapest you can find (that's right off the Sony website).

Assuming it's your external monitor seeing the audio/video problem, check your available resources when it happens (open your Task Manager, and note your available RAM).

Running A/V media content is extremely resource intensive, and if you've got a lot of background processes (Virus programs, firewalls, other useless crap you don't use but starts up and runs anyway) running a movie can put your available system resources at its limit. When available RAM gets to critical levels, it starts using the system hard drive as a Virtual RAM device. When that happens, you start getting the interruptions, as the system is using the drive for a RAM resource to make up the difference in lost available RAM. You should always shut down any programs and turn off any wireless adapters and virus programs.

If it does it right after starting up, and you shut down all non-essential processes, then start looking at the GPU. System overheating can cause the same symptoms - if you don't have HWMonitor, download it and install it, then run it to verify your internal temps when you're running the same content. GPU temps get pretty hot when running video, and if your system is dirty or isn't ventilating properly, you'll get the same symptoms. HWMonitor is at CPUID.com.

 

CyberVisions

Thanks for your ideas. I have only essential programs loading at startup. I have downloaded HWMonitor and the gpu core maxed out at 66*C(151*F) with video running on the external monitor. I'm not sure if this is too high, but doesn't seem like it should be. I have not tried a new cable yet, but do you think a bad cable would actually cause my system to have problems? I can still see the video on the external monitor its just has the little pauses. Thanks again.

 

a cable that has a short could cause such problems

monoprice.com -> inexpensive+quality HDMI cables... or ask a friend

 

Tried a new cable and the problem went away. Glad for once that the easiest solution was the right one. Thanks again

Phil