Depending on the model you own, there is likely one or more HDMI ports on your Samsung TV. But you’ve noticed that when you plug a device in, the TV displays a message that says “Mode Not Supported.” What do you do now?

You’re seeing “Mode Not Supported” on your Samsung TV because the television is having trouble processing the data being sent to it by the device. There are a few different things you can try to resolve the issue. These include restarting both the TV and the HDMI device, updating your TV software, and using a different HDMI cord.

Below, we’ll go into more detail about what precisely this message means, as well as the methods you can try to fix the issue. Keep reading to continue watching!

What Does “Mode Not Supported” Mean?

When you plug an HDMI-connected device into your Samsung TV, a connection is made between the television and the device. If the two devices successfully connect, they allow you to view images, sounds, and videos from the device on your TV screen.

You are likely seeing “Mode Not Supported” on your Samsung TV because the television is having trouble processing the data being sent to it by the device. It’s typically caused by either a miscommunication between the television and the device or an image resolution that’s either too high or too low.

Whether it’s your first time using this device or you’ve been using it for years, this problem can be incredibly frustrating. Thankfully, there are a few things you can try that will likely solve the issue.

How to Fix Samsung TV “Mode Not Supported”

Depending on the cause of this error message, you can try a few different techniques that may resolve it. These include:

  • Restart the TV and device.Update your TV’s software.Set the device to a fixed resolution.Use a shorter HDMI cable.Confirm that the device’s outputted resolution is supported.

Now, let’s go over how to test out each of these methods.

Restart Both the TV and the Device

Sometimes, all your Samsung TV or external device needs is an extra “push” to start working again. Restarting both devices will confirm that they are connecting correctly. Follow the steps below to restart the devices successfully:

  • Turn off your television.If your external device has a power button, press it to turn it off. If not, unplug the device from the TV.Turn your television back on.Once the TV has powered back on fully, wait about 15 seconds. Then, turn the external device back on or plug it back in.

Update Your Samsung TV’s Software

If you have not updated the software on your Samsung TV in a while, check if there are any available updates. You can do this by following the steps listed below:

  • From the home screen, go to “Settings.”Once you’re on the Settings page, choose “Support,” then “Software Update.”If there are any updates available at the time, you’ll see an option to “Update Now.” Click on this, and the update will begin.

Updating your TV’s software can add new features, such as increased external device compatibility, and correct any bugs that are causing this problem.

Set Your Device to a Fixed Resolution

An improper resolution is often the cause of this issue, so setting your external device to a fixed output resolution that’s compatible with your Samsung TV will often solve the problem. However, you will need another television to do this.

If you do have another TV you can connect the device to, do this, and then navigate to your device’s resolution settings. Many will have an option to auto-detect the best output resolution. Turn this option on, then try connecting the device to your Samsung TV again.

Use a Shorter HDMI Cable

Although it may seem far-fetched, the length of the HDMI cable you’re using might actually be the problem. Longer HDMI cables, especially those over 6 feet in length, can sometimes cause this problem. If you need to use a longer cable, make sure it is ISF-rated.

Confirm That the Device Outputs a Supported Resolution

Samsung TVs will only work with devices that output the following resolutions:

  • 480p (640×480)720p (1280×720)1080p (1920×1080)2160p (3840×2160 or 4096×2160)

If your device does not support any of the resolutions listed above, you may not be able to use it with your Samsung TV.

Final Thoughts

It can be frustrating to see the error message “Mode Not Supported” when you try to use a device on your Samsung TV. Thankfully, one of the above methods should help you resolve the issue. If your device does not output any of Samsung’s supported resolutions, however, you may not be able to use it with your TV.