Solved! your surface pro touchscreen suddenly stopped working – here’s the fix
What To Know
- If you’re facing the frustrating predicament of a non-responsive touchscreen on your Surface Pro, you’re not alone.
- In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the depths of why your Surface Pro touchscreen might be acting up and provide you with effective troubleshooting solutions.
- Is it safe to attempt to fix a non-responsive touchscreen myself.
If you’re facing the frustrating predicament of a non-responsive touchscreen on your Surface Pro, you’re not alone. This common issue can stem from various causes, ranging from software glitches to hardware malfunctions. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the depths of why your Surface Pro touchscreen might be acting up and provide you with effective troubleshooting solutions.
Software-Related Causes and Fixes
1. Outdated Drivers
Outdated touchscreen drivers can disrupt the communication between your device and the touchscreen.
- Solution: Update your touchscreen drivers by visiting the Microsoft Device Manager. Right-click on the “Surface Touchscreen Firmware” device and select “Update Driver.”
2. Corrupted System Files
Corrupted system files can interfere with touchscreen functionality.
- Solution: Run a System File Checker (SFC) scan to identify and repair any corrupted files. Open Command Prompt as an administrator and type “sfc /scannow.”
3. Windows Updates Gone Awry
Windows updates can sometimes introduce bugs that affect touchscreen responsiveness.
- Solution: If the issue started after a recent Windows update, try rolling back the update. Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Recovery” and select “Go back to the previous version of Windows 10.”
Hardware-Related Causes and Fixes
4. Loose Connections
Loose connections between the touchscreen and motherboard can cause intermittent or complete touchscreen failure.
- Solution: Contact Microsoft support or an authorized repair center to have the connections inspected and tightened.
5. Damaged Touchscreen
Physical damage to the touchscreen, such as cracks or scratches, can render it unresponsive.
- Solution: If you suspect physical damage, contact Microsoft support for repair or replacement options.
6. Interfering Accessories
External accessories, such as USB hubs or docking stations, can sometimes interfere with touchscreen functionality.
- Solution: Disconnect all external accessories and check if the touchscreen starts working.
7. Overheating
Overheating can cause the touchscreen to malfunction.
- Solution: Ensure that your Surface Pro has adequate ventilation and avoid using it in excessively hot environments.
Other Troubleshooting Tips
8. Restart Your Device
Restarting your Surface Pro can often resolve minor software glitches that may be affecting touchscreen functionality.
9. Calibrate the Touchscreen
Calibrating the touchscreen can improve its accuracy and responsiveness.
- Solution: Go to “Settings” > “Devices” > “Pen & Windows Ink” and click on “Calibrate the screen for pen or touch input.”
10. Use a Soft Cloth
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cloths to clean your touchscreen, as they can damage the delicate surface.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Why does my Surface Pro touchscreen stop working after a few minutes of use?
A: This could indicate an overheating issue. Allow your device to cool down and ensure proper ventilation.
Q: How can I prevent touchscreen issues in the future?
A: Keep your drivers updated, avoid physical damage to the touchscreen, and use a soft cloth for cleaning.
Q: Is it safe to attempt to fix a non-responsive touchscreen myself?
A: Unless you have experience in hardware repair, it’s recommended to contact Microsoft support or an authorized repair center.
Q: How long does it typically take to repair a Surface Pro touchscreen?
A: The repair time can vary depending on the severity of the issue. Contact Microsoft support for an accurate estimate.
Q: Will a factory reset fix a non-responsive touchscreen?
A: A factory reset may resolve software-related issues, but it won’t fix hardware problems.