Can a video card short out a monitor?

[ltromans]

I have an older P-100 PC running an automated DOS program. Today, I replaced two monitors (15" crystal scans). Neither monitor was very new, but both had been in working order.

The suggestion was made that there is a problem with the video card shorting out the monitors (we get black screen, power light on, no picture). When I replaced the monitor, the PC booted normally and the picture was normal. The second monitor ran for about 6 hours before it did the same thing. No one noticed anything to account for the problem.

I am more inclinded to believe it is an external power problem, or environment issue (runs in a plant, possible heat issue).

Anyway, is it possible for a video card to short out a monitor? The video card is an ATI MACH 64. Prior to the issues today, the PC and monitor have been running in that environmnet for 6 months.

Oh yeah, the PC continues to run the automated program with no issues after the monitor goes out.

Thanks for your input.

 

[jznightmare]

i think so, even newer video cards now can damage your monitor.

 

[ANFPS26]

Have you tried the "bad" monitors on another PC? If they are truly bad, it could also just be a coincidence and both monitors actually failed on their own. It could also be a bad video card.

Jim

 

[technome]

If you have a volt/ohm meter, and the manufactures specs on the voltages of the Vga adapter pins, you can check eack pin to see if they are within spec.

 

[ltromans]

Turns out it was a heat issue after all. The PC and monitor were in a cooler box (enclosed box with window and small air conditioner and fan). The air in the box had failed (I can't believe it did not effect the PC!)

Anyway, I put a monitor out there on top of the box - left the doors open for the PC and everything is woking fine. The monitors must have over heated and burned out.

Now I just have to get the box fixed.

Thanks for your input.