TV won't turn on, standby light blinking

What this error means

Samsung's documented states: solid red standby = normal (waiting for power-on); light OFF = no power reaching the TV (or it's on with a black screen); BLINKING red = a fault — after the basics fail, Samsung's documented answer is request service. Worth knowing: the blink-count code tables floating around repair forums ('5 blinks = power board') are community lore, not manufacturer documentation — treat them as hints, not diagnoses. LG publishes no blinking-light codes at all.

Symptoms

• Standby light blinking, TV unresponsive
• Clicking sounds from the set
• Often after a power event

Try this first (safe DIY steps)

1. Try a different outlet and a direct wall connection (bypass power strips)
2. Cold boot: unplug 30–60 seconds, hold the power button 10 seconds while unplugged, replug
3. Try the physical power button on the set (isolates a dead remote)
4. If it still blinks: note the model and pattern for the service conversation

Safety: power off before any physical intervention. Never bypass covers or interlocks — fuser areas run hot enough to burn.

When to call a technician

A persistent blinking standby is board-level repair — typically $150–350. On consumer sets past 5–6 years, replacement usually wins; commercial displays under warranty go through the vendor.