Samsung TVs often display black screens or flickering when switching HDMI inputs due to failed HDMI handshakes. This Samsung HDMI handshake issue occurs when Input Signal Plus is disabled for the active HDMI port, preventing proper communication between your TV and connected devices.
Quick Answer
- Enable Input Signal Plus: Settings → General → External Device Manager → Input Signal Plus
- Turn on each HDMI port individually that you're using
- Use certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cables for 4K content
- Update TV firmware if using One Connect Box models
Symptoms
- Black screen for 2-5 seconds when switching HDMI inputs
- Purple or green screen flicker with 4K content
- Samsung TV black screen HDMI when waking from standby
- No signal message despite properly connected devices
- Audio cuts out briefly during input changes
Quick Checks
- Verify cable connection - unplug and reconnect both ends
- Try a different HDMI port on your Samsung TV
- Check if other HDMI devices work on the same port
- Test with a basic 1080p device to isolate 4K-related issues
Step-by-Step Samsung HDMI Handshake Fix
- Press the Home button on your Samsung remote
- Navigate to Settings (gear icon)
- Select General from the menu
- Choose External Device Manager
- Note: On 2020+ Samsung models, go to Connection → External Device Manager
- Select Input Signal Plus
- Toggle ON each HDMI port you're using (HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.)
- Press Home to exit settings
- Test your HDMI device by switching inputs
For gaming consoles or 4K devices:
- Enable Game Mode in Settings → General → External Device Manager → Game Mode Settings
- Set HDMI Black Level to Normal in Settings → Picture → Expert Settings
If Samsung Input Signal Plus Still Doesn't Fix It
Update your TV firmware:
- Settings → Support → Software Update → Update Now
- Keep TV connected to internet during update
For AV receivers:
- Enable Enhanced HDMI mode on your receiver
- Match the HDMI format between TV and receiver (4K60Hz, etc.)
- See our guide on Samsung TV HDMI ARC/eARC issues
Replace HDMI cables: Consider Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable 48Gbps (paid link) for 4K120Hz gaming or 8K content.
Paid link: GadgetGuiders may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
One Connect Box models:
- Disconnect One Connect cable for 30 seconds
- Check for loose connections at both TV and box
- Contact Samsung support for firmware-specific issues
FAQ
Why does Input Signal Plus fix HDMI handshake problems? Input Signal Plus enables enhanced HDMI communication protocols needed for 4K, HDR, and high refresh rate content. Without it, your Samsung TV uses basic HDMI standards that can't handle modern device requirements.
Do I need Input Signal Plus for all HDMI ports? Only enable Input Signal Plus for ports with 4K devices, gaming consoles, or AV receivers. Basic devices like older Blu-ray players work fine without it.
Will Input Signal Plus affect my TV's performance? Input Signal Plus may slightly increase power consumption but won't impact picture quality or processing speed. The enhanced HDMI bandwidth is worth the minimal trade-off.
What HDMI cable do I need for Samsung Input Signal Plus? Use Ultra High Speed HDMI cables (48Gbps) for 4K120Hz gaming or 8K content. High Speed HDMI cables work for standard 4K60Hz devices.