Solving playback issues

[Papa_K]

Stick blanks several times for a second or two while every time I'm watching.  Does this mean that the stick is end-lifing?

[RokuJohnB]

Hi @Papa_K,

Greetings from the Roku Community!

We will be more than happy to investigate further this issue that you're having with the Roku streaming stick. Can you please provide the following information below?

• Is this happening on all contents and channels, or is it isolated? (Specify)
• How are you powering your Roku device? Is it directly plugged into the wall outlet or power strip?
• When did the issue start?
• What troubleshooting steps have you taken so far?

With detailed information, we will be able to assist you further.

Thanks,
John

[makaiguy · Accepted solution]

@Papa_K-

Under "Settings > System > Advanced system Settings > Advanced display settings" does your Roku have an "Auto-adjust display refresh rate" item? If you don't have this setting, don't bother to read the rest of this post.

If this is enabled, the Roku circuitry sends the signal output at the refresh rate used by the original source material, commonly 24 fps (frames per second), 25 fps, 30 fps, 50 fps, or 60 fps. Every time the source refresh rate changes, the TV must adjust its display to accommodate the new rate, which on many sets results in a short blackout or other display disruption that some find objectionable.

This can happen when starting/stopping new programs, when going in/out/between commercials, or wherever else the refresh rate changes.

If "Auto-adjust display refresh rate" is set OFF, the Roku converts and sends everything at 60 fps so the TV doesn't have to adjust on the fly and you don't get those frame rate transition disruptions.

The tradeoff here is that, non-60 fps sources may not appear as smooth without a Roku refresh rate adjustment, depending on whether your Roku or your TV does a better job of refresh rate conversion. You have to decide whether this change is worth it to you.