Ubuntu

Ubuntu flashing to black screen intermittently

Asked by Wayne Shepherd

I installed Ubuntu 20.04 on a MiniPc, Specs: GK41 Mini PC, Intel(R) Celeron(R) J4125 CPU @ 2.00GHz 2.00 GHz Gemini Lake, 8 GB DDR4, Intel UHD 605 graphics, 500 GB M.2 2280 SATA SSD. The problem came a few minutes after installing, the screen would blink to black as if the monitor had come disconnected. After a few moments or so the screen returns to normal. This problem happens so randomly that I have been unable to isolate a single application as being the cause. I updated the kernel to 5.8 without success. I could be in the middle of watching a video online or typing a document in LibreOffice when it suddenly just goes black. I checked the temperature sensors and the processor never got above 69C or 159F which is in the normal operating range. It has gotten so bad that I had to temporarily go back to Windows 10 Pro where I can work. Windows 10 work flawlessly but, I really want to use Ubuntu if possible.

Note: I read on the Intel site that there is no Linux drivers distributed independently for this processor as they are built into the kernel. I also know that this processor has time and power limits set to unlimited by the pc manufacturer.

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actionparsnip (andrew-woodhead666) said : 		#1

Make sure you have the latest BIOS. It may be in here
https://www.minisforum.com/support/4

You'll want the RAR file. I'm pulling it down myself to see what's inside.

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Wayne Shepherd (compmend1299) said : 		#2

actionparsnip: I have inspected both files. The windows 10 pro drivers are inside the second RAR file and the first is just a WINDOWS 10 Pro PE installation that includes the drivers. I downloaded my Windows 10 image from Microsoft and all of the drivers installed through Windows Update Optional updates. I did see a reference in one of the Minis Forums about a bios update required for some if they had network issues. I will see if I can find the forum again and check the bios version via the one I have installed. If I can find it and my problem is solved I will come back and mark your answer as the solution.

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actionparsnip (andrew-woodhead666) said : 		#3

Also check RAM health. Does the same black screen happen if you connect the system to a different screen (preferably a different make and model)

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James Gonzales (jpgonz107) said : 		#4

I am also having the same issue Wayne. Exact same hardware & Ubuntu release, exactly the display flickering problem you described. Following this thread for potential solutions.

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