We’ve all been there. You’re watching your favorite show. Maybe you’re watching crunch-time of the biggest game of the year. All the sudden the cable goes out. Before you go calling your cable provider to talk to 4 different people and waste an hour of your time, try this simple solution.
Usually, all you have to do is reboot the cable box. Here’s how.
Check Connections
Simple, make sure all plugs for devices are connected by each end to the designated ports. Ensure wiring is intact and make sure no fuses are blown. Make sure your television is on the correct input/HDMI mode.
Power Down
Still not functioning? To reboot, start by turning off the cable box, using either the power button on the front or the remote.
Disconnect
Disconnect the power cord from either the wall outlet or the back of the cable box. If you’re plugged into a power strip, turn off the power strip.
Wait, Reconnect
Wait 30-60 seconds. Once this time is allotted, restore the power by re-connecting the cord where you previously disconnected. The box should begin rebooting, with a countdown on the LED display. You should also get a wait screen showing on the TV.
Wait for it…
Allow the box to reset, for about 2 to 4 minutes. If everything goes according to plan, the LED digital clock will reappear on the front of the box with the correct time.
Power Up
Once you see the time on the LED clock, press and release the power button on the box or remote to turn it back on. Hopefully, your cable kicks back on to your home channel and you’ll be back to business!
This is usually the first thing the cable provider will have you do, of course, once you get to actually talk to someone. If you do try this first, it might save you the 15, 20, or 60 minutes that you’ll spend talking on the phone and responding to an automated response system.
If the problem persists, unfortunately you might have to give them a call, as it may be a problem with the cable line. Remember, if you notice during your troubleshooting session that your wiring or equipment are all discombobulated, we can clean it up! Park Place Installations is here to help install any audio visual equipment you have in a timely and organized manner!