Screen Flicker (PWM) Test – Reduce Eye Strain
PWM flicker causes headaches and eye strain but is invisible to most people. Learn to detect it and reduce its effects.
Understanding PWM Flicker
PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) flicker occurs when displays rapidly turn backlights on/off to control brightness, typically below 1000Hz.
Symptoms:
- Eye strain during long usage
- Headaches after screen time
- Fatigue with dark themes
- Sensitivity varies by person
Test for PWM Flicker
Use your phone camera to record the screen - PWM flicker appears as moving bands in the recording.
Reduce Flicker Effects
- Increase brightness - higher levels often disable PWM
- Use DC dimming if available in settings
- External lighting to reduce contrast
- Flicker-free monitors for sensitive users
(We'll expand this section with screenshots and tips soon.)