Device Flickering or Rapidly Changing Colors

If your RGB devices are flickering, flashing unexpectedly, or displaying unstable lighting, this guide will help you identify and resolve the issue.

Quick Checklist

Before diving into detailed troubleshooting, verify these basic requirements:

If any of these aren't configured correctly, flickering may occur or persist.

Symptoms: Devices flicker when manufacturer software (iCUE, Synapse, Aura Sync, etc.) is running alongside SignalRGB.

Solutions:

Close conflicting software completely: Multiple programs controlling the same device creates conflicts where each program sends different commands rapidly, causing visible flickering. Don't just minimize, fully close programs like Corsair iCUE, Razer Synapse, ASUS Aura Sync, MSI Mystic Light. You may need to end processes or services in Task Manager.
Restart SignalRGB: After closing conflicting software, restart SignalRGB to ensure it has proper device control.
Uninstall conflicting software: For the most stable experience, completely uninstall other RGB software. In some instances the software might still attempt to control a device even after the software is closed, requiring it to be uninstalled completely.

Symptoms: Devices flicker intermittently during regular SignalRGB operation.

Solutions:

Check cable connections: Loose connections create intermittent contact, causing devices to rapidly connect/disconnect. Power off your PC, unplug it, and verify all RGB device cables are firmly connected (USB, ARGB headers, SATA power, PCIe).
Try different USB ports: Some USB ports may have power delivery issues or bandwidth limitations. Move USB RGB devices to different ports, preferably directly on your motherboard rather than front panel ports or hubs.
Update device firmware: Outdated firmware can have bugs that cause instability. Check manufacturer websites for firmware updates for your RGB devices.
Check power supply capacity: Insufficient power causes voltage drops under load, leading to devices operating erratically. Calculate your RGB setup's power draw and ensure your PSU has adequate wattage.

Symptoms: Devices flicker specifically when using Screen Ambience or Game Integration Effects.

Solutions:

Lower capture frame rate: Many RGB devices have hardware FPS limitations (15-30 FPS). Setting capture rates higher causes devices to drop frames, creating flickering. Go to Settings > Application > Video and reduce Capture Framerate to 30 FPS or lower.
Enable Compatibility Mode: Go to Settings > Application > Video and enable "Compatibility Mode" in Capture Settings. This resolves conflicts with certain games or graphics drivers that cause irregular data appearing as flickering.
Disable HDR: HDR changes color data in ways that confuse RGB control algorithms, causing rapid color changes. Turn off HDR in Windows Display Settings and in your games/applications.

Symptoms: Fans, LED strips, or other devices connected to motherboard ARGB headers flicker or display incorrect colors.

Solutions:

Verify correct header type: ARGB devices (3-pin, 5V) connected to RGB headers (4-pin, 12V) will be damaged due to incorrect voltage. Ensure proper header matching.
Check header connections: Power off your PC, unplug it, and verify ARGB cables are fully seated on both device and motherboard header.
Close motherboard software: Manufacturer software (Aura Sync, RGB Fusion, Mystic Light) conflicts with SignalRGB's ARGB control. Close these programs completely.
Test headers individually: If using splitters, connect devices directly to motherboard headers one at a time to identify any faulty components.

Symptoms: Multiple USB devices flicker simultaneously, or flickering started after adding more USB RGB devices.

Solutions:

Spread devices across USB controllers: USB controllers have bandwidth limits. Overloaded controllers drop data packets, causing stuttering and flickering. Connect devices to different USB headers on your motherboard. If all RGB headers are in use, consider purchasing another RGB controller to add more.
Use powered USB hubs: This reduces load on individual motherboard USB controllers while providing stable power to high-draw devices.
Check Device Manager: Look for USB controller errors or unknown devices that might indicate connection problems.

Some flickering may be hardware limitations rather than fixable issues:

Device FPS limits: Check the Inspector tab on the Devices page to see your device's actual FPS capability. Many controllers are limited to 15-30 FPS by the manufacturer.
Cable quality: Poor-quality USB cables, ARGB extensions, or splitters can introduce signal problems that appear as flickering.
Failing Hardware:

If multiple fixes haven't resolved flickering:

Uninstall SignalRGB from Windows Settings > Apps
- Click “Yes” when asked if you want to delete all SignalRGB related settings
Delete remaining files from C:\Users\USERNAME\AppData\Roaming\WhirlwindFX
Restart your PC
Download and install the latest version from signalrgb.com

Some flickering behavior can be expected in the following scenarios:

If you've tried these troubleshooting steps and flickering persists, please file a bug report so our team can investigate:

What to include in your bug report:

How to submit:

Our support team will work with you and do our best to resolve the flickering issue!

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