Apps & viewing

[Mert4649]

Roku Express connected to not-smart tv. Symptom: keys on remote have no effect on tv screen...tv screen is "frozen".

Action: replace remote batteries 

Result: no effect

Action: replace remote

Result: no effect

Action: replace Roku stick

Result: no effect

Action: replace HDMI cable

Result: no effect

Action: reboot stick

Result: Home screen displays but still frozen

Action: use laptop on same tv HDMI port

Result: tv is fine; WiFi is fine

OK, experts....GO....

[Strega2]

Sounds like the remote is not paired to the stick??

[renojim]

What's the model number written on the device?  Note:  an Express is not a "stick" and it's important to make the distinction.  "Sticks" plug directly into a TV without the need of an HDMI cable and often require a special USB cable.  So since you mention an HDMI cable, it's probably safe to assume that you don't have a stick and don't require a special cable.

The next question is what kind of remote do you have?  Does it have TV controls (Power, volume, mute)?  Is there a microphone button on it?

Is it already connected to your network?  If so, have you tried using the mobile app as a remote?

Roku Mobile App - Free for iOS® or Android™ | Roku 

Start by giving us the model number.  There have been several "Express" models over the years and they're not all the same.

[Mert4649]

The model is 3930X.  The remote came with this device and has no mic or tv controls. This device has been successfully in operation on the same tv for all of 2023 so, yes it is connected to the Internet. No, I have not tried a mobile app as a remote.

[Mert4649]

As someone pointed out, I dont have a "stick" and I dont recall in the years and different "devices" I have never "paired" a remote. I just use them out of the box. How does one pair it?

[Strega2]

Sorry, I saw "stick", so I thought it was a stick.  There is no pairing for IR remotes, which is what the 3930 came with.

For IR remotes, the only issue is usually a clear line of site between the remote, and the IR window on the front of the Express.  I assume there is one? The only other things that are coming to mind for interfering with IR remotes, is a room with too much sunlight, and another remote or IR blaster that is constantly transmitting – for example another remote slipping between cushions of the sofa so a button is held down is a classic cause of something like that.