So, you have connected an external device to your Samsung TV. It could be your gaming console, projector, or computer.
But instead of seeing the external device on your Samsung TV, you get a “mode not supported” error message. That means you cannot play video games or access your computer screen on your Samsung TV.
Why does this problem occur, and how can you fix it?
The “mode not supported” error occurs when connecting an external device whose resolution differs from your Samsung TV’s resolution.
Another way of explaining it is that if the external device is outputting a resolution unsupported by Samsung TV, the error message will be displayed on the TV.
The difference in screen resolution prevents your TV from reading the incoming signal and displays the error. The issue can occur when using HDMI or VGA ports.
Why does the “mode not supported” error occur on Samsung TV?
The mode not supported error on Samsung TV occurs because of any of the following reasons:
- The HDMI cable is too long.
- You have set your external device to auto-resolution.
- Your composite A/V connection is outputting a higher resolution than 480i.
In the case of a PC, you will get the error message if the PC outputs a resolution not supported by the TV. An outdated video card driver can also cause this error.
How to fix the “mode not supported” error on Samsung TV
Do the following to fix the error:
1. Check that the external device is outputting a supported resolution
Samsung TV supports four resolutions:
- 480i/p (640 x 480).
- 720p (1280 x 720).
- 1080i/p (1920 x 1080).
- 2160p (3840/4096 x 2160).
Therefore, check that your external device has the same resolution. If not, adjust it accordingly. For example, if you get the error while connecting your PC, do the following:
- Go to Start.
- Click Settings.
- Select System, then Display on Windows 11.
- Select a resolution that matches your Samsung TV in the Display resolution row.
2. Power cycle your Samsung TV and external device
A power cycle helps to test the HDMI handshake between your Samsung TV and the external device. It also helps to confirm that the resolution configuration is accurate.
Furthermore, when the two devices establish an HDMI connection, the external device must communicate with your Samsung TV and determine its capabilities.
Consider the steps below:
- Turn off your Samsung TV and the external device.
- Turn your Samsung TV on first.
- Wait for about 15 seconds.
- Turn on the external device.
The “mode not supported error” should disappear, and you’ll be able to view the device’s screen on the TV.
3. Use a shorter HDMI cable
A long HDMI cable can cause issues such as loss of brightness, a low refresh rate, input lag and resolution incompatibility.
The best fix is to use a shorter HDMI cable of about six feet. But if a longer cable of more than 12 feet is necessary, ensure it has the ISF rating.
4. Set your device to a fixed output resolution
If your external device has an option for setting its resolution, adjust the settings to remove the default auto-detect setting.
Then, fix the resolution is not supported error message by setting the device to output the highest supported resolution. Finally, ensure the resolution matches that of your Samsung TV.
5. Update your Samsung TV
Updating your Samsung TV will add new features and fix errors.
Do the following:
- Press the Settings button on your TV remote.
- Go to Support
- Select Software Update
- Click on Update Now
Your TV should update if an update is available. Before updating, you should also ensure that the TV is connected to a WiFi network.
After the updates, try connecting your external device. The error should disappear.
Final thoughts
The mode not supported error occurs when the external device you have connected to the Samsung TV has a resolution not supported by your Samsung TV.
You can fix this by confirming that the external device outputs a supported resolution or adjusting the external device’s resolution to one that matches your Samsung TV.
You should also use a shorter HDMI cable about six feet or set your external device to a fixed resolution output.