Black UI if Plex HTPC left running with TV off

Plex Players Desktop Players
1

Server Version#: 1.32.7.7621-871adbd44
Player Version#: Plex HTPC for Mac 1.51.1.4020-26074e51

We run Plex (server and client) on a Mac Mini M1. We also had this issue when it was connected straight to our Sony TV via HDMI, though it’s via a HDMI splitter of late.

If we pause Plex mid-movie and turn off the TV, then when we come back to it, the Plex UI is black. You can still see the movie itself, but you can’t see the UI, and if you “Esc” to go back in the UI, you hear interface sounds but the screen is all black. Restarting Plex fixes it.

Turning the TV off very briefly does not reproduce the issue. I have not done an exhaustive test – perhaps it’s related to something that happens after a while, like the screensaver engaging (if the Mac still shows a screensaver when the TV is off).

Is this a known bug? Is there any setting that will fix it?

2

Same here on my Mac Mini M2 which I run as client and server. I also have mine hooked direct to a Sony TV and even if my surround sound cuts off and the Sony TV switches to TV speakers, the Plex UI becomes black.

Only fix I have found so far is completely restarting Plex HTPC app. Hopefully the devs can check and see what’s happening as I would prefer to just leave the Plex HTPC app open instead of constant restarts.

3

Sounds like HDMI handshake issues that produce this result.

No, I do not have this issue.

4

Thanks! That’s an interesting theory. Could it explain why the Plex UI acts up but not the movie content?

(EDIT: This is OP. Logged in on another device and ended up in some alternative account.)

5

I’ve seen exactly that happen, yes.

The UI is static in terms of HDMI handshake, the media playing is not.

I’d be checking your HDMI devices and their setups.

I know I do have to enable an always on HDMI signal for one of our players (Windows machine) or a blank screen eventuates.

1 Like
6

Thanks! I think the Mac is configured to turn off its screen after some time. Maybe also to go into sleep mode. So you’re saying that having the Mini stay awake and not stop sending data to the screen might avoid this issue?

Given that choice, I think I’d prefer the energy savings and having to restart Plex. But it’s an excellent theory and I might do some experimenting to confirm it.

If this is the issue, I assume it can be considered a Plex bug?

7

In my case, it is a handshake issue with my AVR. My AVR now stays on 24/7.

Nothing to do with Plex.

May or may not be relevant to your case.

1 Like
8

I experienced similar issues on a Marantz, and I solved them disabling video conversion in video/output settings. I’d give it a try.

20231129_102046
20231129_102046816×612 99.4 KB

9

He mentioned he had the same issue connected directly to the display (no AVR).

He currently uses an HDMI splitter.

However, your comment about enabling pass through for video on the AVR, also suggests HDMI handshake issues.

10

This topic was automatically closed 90 days after the last reply. New replies are no longer allowed.