Samsung TVs don’t display traditional error codes like appliances do, but they communicate problems through standby light blink patterns, on-screen error messages, and symptoms like black screen or no sound. This guide covers what each signal means and what you can do about it.
Samsung TV Standby Light Blink Codes
The red standby light at the bottom of the TV blinks a specific number of times to indicate which component has failed. Count the blinks in one cycle before the pause.
| Blinks | Meaning | DIY Repair? |
|---|---|---|
| 2 blinks | Power supply board failure | Yes — board replacement |
| 4 blinks | T-con board failure | Yes — board replacement |
| 5 blinks | Backlight failure (LED strips) | Yes — backlight strip replacement |
| 6 blinks | Backlight failure (inverter/driver) | Yes — board replacement |
2 Blinks — Power Supply Board
The power supply board has failed. The TV won’t turn on, or it tries to turn on and immediately shuts back off.
DIY possibility: Power supply boards are available for most Samsung models and are user-replaceable with basic screwdriver skills. The board is inside the TV (requires removing the back panel). Confirm it’s the power supply and not the main board by checking whether the board shows any visually blown capacitors.
4 Blinks — T-con Board
The T-con (timing control) board processes the image signal and sends it to the panel. When it fails, the result is usually black screen with sound, color distortion, or horizontal/vertical lines on screen.
DIY possibility: Yes. T-con boards are one of the most common TV repairs and are widely available. The board is a small PCB attached to the back of the panel.
5 or 6 Blinks — Backlight Failure
The LED backlight strips inside the TV have failed. One or more LED strips have burned out, causing the screen to appear completely black (even though the TV is on and producing sound).
Test: Shine a flashlight at the TV screen at a close angle in a darkened room. If you can see a faint image, the backlights are the problem.
DIY possibility: Yes, but involved. The TV must be disassembled to replace the LED strips. It’s feasible for handy people with patience. Search YouTube for your specific Samsung model number + “backlight replacement.”
Samsung TV — Black Screen With Sound
If the TV produces sound but the screen is completely black (and the backlight test above shows a faint image), the most likely causes are:
- Backlight failure — LED strips burned out (see 5/6 blink section above)
- T-con board failure — Board processes the display signal (see 4 blinks above)
- Main board failure — Less common; the main board has failed
If the screen is completely black with no image even with a flashlight, and you hear the TV working, start with the T-con board.
Samsung TV On-Screen Error Codes (Tizen OS)
Error 102 — Network DNS Failure
The TV can’t resolve domain names — it’s connected to WiFi but can’t reach the internet.
Fix:
- Settings > General > Network > Reset Network.
- Reconnect to WiFi.
- If still failing, manually set DNS: Settings > General > Network > IP Settings > DNS Setting > Manual > enter 8.8.8.8 (Google DNS).
Error 105 — Network Connection Timeout
The TV connected to WiFi but can’t reach Samsung’s servers.
Fix: Restart your router and modem. If other devices are working fine, the issue is with Samsung’s servers (temporary) or with the TV’s network module.
Error 107 — Network Authentication
WiFi authentication failed.
Fix: Remove the WiFi connection and reconnect. Re-enter the WiFi password. If your router recently changed security settings, the TV needs to reconnect fresh.
”Not Available” Message
Appears when you select an input and the TV can’t detect a signal.
Fix:
- Confirm the correct HDMI or input port is selected (use the Source button on the remote).
- Try a different HDMI cable — cables fail more often than people expect.
- Try a different HDMI port on the TV.
- Restart the connected device (cable box, gaming console, streaming device).
”Source Not Available”
Input port is configured in a way the TV can’t use.
Fix: Go to Source > Edit to confirm the input is enabled. Some inputs can be hidden in the source list.
Is Repair Worth It for a Samsung TV?
Under 3 years old: Repair is almost always worth it. Part costs are reasonable and the TV has years of useful life remaining.
3–6 years old: Depends on repair cost. Power supply and T-con boards are $30–$80. Backlight replacement is $20–$50 in parts but several hours of labor. These repairs are often worthwhile.
Over 6 years old: Run the numbers. A comparable replacement TV at current prices may cost less than a technician visit plus parts. But if you’re comfortable with DIY, parts-only repairs on older TVs are still economical.
Parts You May Need
- Samsung TV LED backlight strips (search your TV model and size)
- Samsung TV T-con board (search your model number)
- Samsung TV power supply board (search your model)
- High-speed HDMI cable
- TV surge protector power strip