A constant blinking blue light in a Roku device indicates connectivity issues between the cable connections linking the device to the TV unit. It also may be related to compatibility issues and, in some cases, problems connecting to the internet.
The easiest method to fix a blinking blue light in your Roku includes inspection of the cable runs, replacing the power cord, checking any loose connection, and plugging the Roku straight into the HDMI port.
The Roku streaming devices are very popular because of their useful features, convenience, and the ability to equip your regular (or not) TV with advanced software and interface. Basically, you can have all the streaming apps on Roku, paid versions or free ones, and watch movies and shows on demand.
If you are using the Plex server, you can add it on Roku and stream your own library to the TV. Moreover, Roku sticks are highly portable, and small, and they offer long-range WiFi connectivity.
Methods to fix the blinking blue light on Roku devices
Below we’ve listed various methods that can be used to fix the blinking blue light issue. Try them one by one until the issue is resolved. As we said, there are many reasons why the Roku may start to blink the blue light.
Check the Roku power cable
Most of the time, a blinking blue light displayed on your Roku device indicates a power-related problem such as the unit now getting enough juice from the outlet. This may be caused by a loose connection, dust in the connectors, or just a bad cable.
You should start by inspecting the cables and the connection and then possibly replacing the power cord. Follow these instructions:
- Unplug the power cord from the Roku device.
- Note that there are two parts here, the power cord and the power adapter.
- Replace the power cord first and try the Roku works properly. If not, replace the power adapted as well.
Sometimes the problem may be with the cord, other times with the power adapter. Get a replacement with both parts and replace everything just to be sure. If that doesn’t work, we have to check other possibilities.
Check the HDMI cable
First of all, you get the best quality and far fewer issues if you use an HDMI cable to connect the Roku to your TV. Some users use RCA cables instead of HDMI cables which lowers the performance. Whenever possible, use HDMI.
HDMI cables provide the best possible streaming parameters and they overheat way less. When you use cheaply made HDMI cables, you may have connectivity issues between devices, especially if the connectors are not sturdy enough.
So, simply inspect the HDMI cable and check if something is amiss. You can try another cable just to ensure if the current cable works correctly.
If you have been using the same HDMI cable for many years, or if the pins on the connector are worn out, consider switching the HDMI cable for a new one. Moreover, the prices are pretty affordable.
Below are some tips on how to replace a defective HDMI cable:
- Power both the Roku device and the TV unit.
- Unplug the HDMI that connects the TV and the Roku
- Plug the new HDMI cable.
- Power on the Roku and the TV.
When buying an HDMI cable, ensure to get the right length. The last thing you need is an extremely long HDMI cable that clutters the area behind the TV. Also, HDMI cables from reputable stores with good reviews.
Test out the Roku on a different TV
Sometimes the blinking blue light may indicate a compatibility issue between the TV and the Roku devices, or even some issues with the installed apps on Roku. To rule out these problems, you can test out the Roku in a different TV unit just to see if the issue persists.
Disconnect everything from your current setup and then connect to another TV, possibly using the same wiring. If the blinking blue lights disappear while connected to the new TV, then it’s a compatibility issue.
If so, you may try to update the firmware on the affected TV, update the Roku device (or even replace the stick).
Let it blink
In some cases, Roku devices displayed the blinking blue light to indicate a status change, and not necessarily any error. It can also be a reminder that the device is shutting down. The blue indicator may flash 10 minutes after the device is turned off (depending on the model).
If you are experiencing blinking blue light, observe its pattern, and see if it serves any purpose. For example, if it appears right before the Roku shuts down and then it goes away, it means there’s no problem with the device.
Conclusion
Roku devices may show a persistent blinking blue light that possibly indicates a problem with the connection between the unit and the TV. You can fix these issues by checking the power cord, replacing the HDMI cable, ensuring the connections are not loose, and updating the firmware on both the TV and Roku device.
In some cases, a blinking blue light may indicate a status update and not necessarily an error (for example when you turn it off). If you still can’t fix it, consider reaching out to Roku for further technical assistance.
