In the digital age, TVs are smart devices that need repair sometimes. A factory restart is one of the most excellent solutions to fix recurring issues. What if your TV remote breaks, is lost, or is out of reach? Learn how to factory reset Samsung TV without remote using a wired USB keyboard and the Samsung SmartThings app. Fix issues and restore your TV with the step-by-step instructions.
How to Factory Reset Samsung TV without Remote?
Here are two effective methods to factory reset your Samsung TV without a remote control. By utilizing a wired USB keyboard or the Samsung SmartThings app, you can navigate through the settings and initiate a factory reset effortlessly.
Method 1: Using a Wired USB Keyboard
You can still reset your Samsung TV to its original settings with a wired USB keyboard if you don’t have or can’t find the remote. Using the keyboard, you may modify TV settings and restart the factory.
Step 1: Connect the Keyboard
A factory restart requires a wired USB keyboard. Connect it to the Samsung TV’s back USB port.
Step 2: Access TV Settings
You can access settings in two ways:
- Keyboard Shortcut: Press Windows and Esc simultaneously. Command and Esc on Mac. Selecting this opens the settings menu.
- On-Screen Navigation: Use the keyboard’s arrow keys to find the settings icon at the bottom of your TV’s home screen. Enter upon arrival.
Step 3: Navigate to Factory Reset
The path to the factory reset option may differ based on your Samsung TV model:
For Samsung TV 2019 – Current Model:
- Use the arrow keys to select “General”.
- Access “Reset” with the right arrow key.
- Press Enter to confirm.
For Samsung TV 2016 – 2018 Models:
- Navigate to ‘Support’ using the arrow keys.
- From the ‘Support’ menu, select ‘Self Diagnosis.’
- Select “Reset” and enter.
Step 4: Enter the Reset PIN
Upon selecting the factory reset option, you’ll be prompted to enter the reset PIN. Generally, the default PIN is 0000, but 1111 might also work on specific models.
Step 5: Confirm the Reset
A confirmation prompt will appear once you’ve entered the correct reset PIN. Use the Left arrow key to highlight ‘Reset,’ and press Enter to confirm. Now, allow the TV to complete the reset process. The TV will automatically restart upon completion.
Method 2: Utilize the Samsung SmartThings App
In situations where your TV remote is unavailable or non-functional, you can employ the Samsung SmartThings app as an alternative method to factory reset your Samsung TV. This method capitalizes on the power of smartphone connectivity to navigate TV settings and initiate a factory reset.
Step 1: Download and install the SmartThings App
Download Samsung SmartThings from Google Play or Apple App Store, and install it on your device.
Step 2: Link TV to SmartThings
Use an existing account or create one after downloading the app. The SmartThings app requires linking your TV:
- The app’s “+” button is usually in the corner.
- Click “Add Device” to let the software find nearby devices.
- Pick your TV’s name from the list (Samsung).
- Share Wi-Fi with your phone and TV.
- After linking your TV, tap “Add.”
Step 3: Using the Remote App
Now that your TV is connected to the SmartThings app, you can utilize it as a remote control to navigate and perform a factory reset:
- For Samsung TV models from 2019 to the latest, follow this path: Settings > General > Reset. Enter the reset PIN and confirm the reset.
- For Samsung TV models between 2016 and 2018, navigate to Settings > Support > Self Diagnosis > Reset. Enter the reset PIN and confirm the reset.
Alternative Tip: Try a Power Cycle (Soft Reset)
Before opting for a factory reset, consider attempting a power cycle, also known as a soft reset. This method can often resolve specific issues without the need for a complete reset:
- Unplug your TV from the power outlet.
- Unplug the TV for about 60 seconds.
- Hold down your TV’s on/off button for 30 seconds.
- Restart the TV and reconnect the power.
A power cycle can effectively resolve problems like a reboot loop or a persistent black screen.
FAQs
FAQ 1: Can I reset my Samsung TV without a remote?
You can, yes. There are other ways to navigate and factory restart, like using a wired USB keyboard or the Samsung SmartThings app.
FAQ 2: What if I need to know the factory reset PIN?
The default reset PIN is usually 0000. If that doesn’t work, try 1111. If you’ve changed the PIN and can’t remember it, consider resetting the PIN using a remote (VOL > Vol Up > Return > Vol Down > RETURN > Vol Up > Return).
FAQ 3: Can I use any USB keyboard for the method mentioned?
Yes, you can use most wired USB keyboards. Ensure it has a functional Enter key, as you’ll need it during the reset process.
FAQ 4: Is there any risk involved in performing a factory reset?
Factory resetting returns your TV to its default settings, erasing personal preferences and customizations. Make sure to back up any critical data or settings before proceeding.
FAQ 5: Will a power cycle fix all issues without a factory reset?
Power cycling can resolve specific issues like reboot loops or black screens. It’s a less invasive method before opting for a factory reset.
Conclusion
Performing a factory reset on your Samsung TV without a remote might seem challenging, but you can overcome various issues with the methods outlined in this guide.
Whether you use a wired USB keyboard or the Samsung SmartThings app, these steps help you regain control over your TV’s functionality. Please comment; your feedback helps us refine our solutions to provide the best assistance possible.
