Why does my tv have a line down the middle and no picture?
Assuming we’re talking about a CRT (picture tube) type of set: If the line goes from left to right (more likely), then it’s a vertical deflection failure and could be something as simple as a solder connection breaking down, any number of electrolytic capacitors “drying out”, or a vertical amplifier IC failure. They all can be fixed relatively easy. As far as the first answer goes, I have seen one (and only one) horizontal failure cause a line down the middle (top to bottom) due to a deflection yoke failure. That’s extremely rare because the high voltage for the picture tube comes from the horizontal section and failures there almost always result in no picture at all. This type of repair could be more costly, but still can be done. It just takes money. Usually older sets aren’t worth it because new ones cost relatively little when compared to the repair cost. Next time, post some more info (TV type, model, etc.) so that we can give you a more accurate answer.
