Envision monitor problem please help

Q: I have an Envision 19" LCD wide screen monitor and since yesterday it goes black two seconds after I turn it on. Yesterday I got frustrated and just left it alone for a few hours (I think maybe 7 or 8 hours) and when I came back it was working fine again. But today my cousin was playing a game on my computer and it just went black again. I can turn it on, then it will show whatever is on the screen for 2 seconds, then just go black, even when the blue light is still on. It's quite frustrating because I've only had this monitor since Christmas 2007. It hasn't even been more than half a year that I've had it. Can anyone tell me what could be the problem and how to fix it?

A: First, check the cords. You will need to turn off both the computer and the monitor. Then unplug the cable that goes from the monitor to the computer at both ends. Blow at both the plug and slot it plugs into at both ends and then reconnect, making sure BOTH ends are sitting tightly together. Do the same with the power cord that goes from the monitor to the electric outlet. NOTE: some cheap monitors don't unplug at the monitor. When all ends are again seated tightly, turn on the computer and monitor to see if the problem has resolved. If you still have a black screen, you may have a bad cable. If the monitor has a little light on it, it means it is getting electric, so you may need a new cable from the computer to the monitor. If no electric, replace the cord going from the monitor to the electric outlet. ALWAYS turn off both the computer and monitor when you are going to plug in a cable!!!! At first, just BORROW the cords from a friend or family member. You'll know right away when you find what works : ) If neither cable makes a difference, borrow a monitor from a friend or family member and see if that will work for you. If it does, then your monitor is shot. If new cables don't work and a different monitor doesn't work, you may need to call in a technician. Good luck! HTH!

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