Why is Insignia TV Saying Unsupported Mode

When you’re all set to enjoy your favorite shows on your Insignia TV, the last thing you want is an annoying error message, like the Unsupported Mode.

Having trouble with this message on your Insignia TV screen? It can be frustrating, especially if you’re not sure why it’s happening.

There are a couple of common reasons for this error. It might be because your TV can’t connect to the internet or get updates.

Another reason could be that the device you’re connecting to the TV doesn’t match the TV’s resolution or refresh rate.

This often happens when connecting a gaming console or computer.

Don’t worry – I’ve got simple steps to fix these issues and get your TV back to normal.

Let’s dive in and solve it quickly.

Page Contents

Why is Insignia TV Saying Unsupported Mode
How to Fix Unsupported Mode on Insignia TV
Tips for Preventing Future Unsupported Mode Issues
- Use Compatible Devices and Cables
- Regularly Update Your TV Firmware
People Also Ask

Why is Insignia TV Saying Unsupported Mode

When your Insignia TV displays the Unsupported Mode message, it indicates that the current input signal or configuration is not supported by your Insignia TV.

Understanding the possible causes of this message can help you troubleshoot the issue effectively.

Here are some common reasons why your Insignia TV may show the Unsupported Mode message:

Incompatible Input Signal

To begin with, this issue may be caused by compatibility issues between the TV and the device you are trying to connect.

Some devices may not be compatible with the TV’s hardware or software, which can cause the TV to display the message.

Another thing here is different resolutions or refresh rates.

Your TV may display the Unsupported Mode message if the resolution or refresh rate of the input signal doesn’t match the supported settings of your Insignia TV.

For example, if you are trying to connect a device that outputs a resolution or refresh rate that is not supported by your TV, this message may appear.

And also, unrecognized video format (e.g., PAL vs. NTSC).

This as well can probably have an effect if the TV cannot recognize the video format being sent by the input source.

For instance, if you are attempting to play a video in a format that your TV does not support, such as PAL when the TV is set to NTSC, the unsupported mode message may be triggered.

Faulty HDMI Connection

Another common cause of the Unsupported Mode message is an issue with the HDMI cable.

If the cable is not securely connected to both the TV and the device you are trying to connect, the TV may not be able to receive the signal properly.

If connected with loose or damaged cables. In case the HDMI cable is not securely connected or if it’s damaged,

the TV may have trouble communicating with the device, and that can trigger the Unsupported Mode message.

Ensuring the HDMI cable is plugged in correctly can save you a good time which may later be required for fixing the issue.

And also, the possibility of selecting a wrong input mode shouldn’t be overlooked.

Some TVs have multiple HDMI ports.

If you connect your device to a different HDMI port than the one selected on the Insignia TV, it can cause the persistent Unsupported Mode message you’re currently experiencing.

Outdated Firmware or Software Version

Apparently, it is not advisable to leave your TV outdated. Keeping your TV up to date is important for several reasons.

First, updates often include improvements that can make your TV work better and provide new features.

By updating your TV, you can have a smoother and more enjoyable viewing experience.

Second, updates also help fix any bugs or issues that may be present in the older version of the TV’s software.

Your Insignia TV software (called firmware) may need an update to work with certain signals or devices.

Check if there are any updates available for your Insignia TV model and follow the instructions to update the firmware if needed.

How to Fix Unsupported Mode on Insignia TV

Check the HDMI Cable you’re using

First, make sure your HDMI cable is properly connected and not damaged.

Try unplugging it and plugging it back in to make sure it’s secure. If your cable is damaged, replace it with a new one.

This how to conduct a proper check:

Take a closer look at the cables connecting your devices to the TV. Make sure they are securely plugged in on both ends.

Sometimes, a loose connection can cause the Unsupported Mode message to appear.

And also, if you have multiple HDMI ports on your Insignia TV, ensure that you have connected your device to the correct HDMI port.

TVs usually have labels such as HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc., next to each port. Verify that you have plugged your device into the appropriate port and select the corresponding input source when the TV turns on.

Additionally, if you have another HDMI cable available, you can try swapping the cables to see if the issue is related to a faulty cable.

Adjust the Input Resolution and Refresh Rate

If your HDMI cable is fine, the problem may be with your TV’s resolution and refresh rate settings from the external device connected to your Insignia TV.

To adjust these settings, depending on the type of the device you connected to your TV.

In some cases, this might require you to consult the device’s user manual if you need help finding the settings.

Since the TV always displays the Unsupported Mode screen all the time after turning it on, accessing its resolution option might require a bit of effort.

After finding out the exact steps to access and calibrate the resolution settings of the device connected with the Insignia TV,

you may actually need to access the device from another TV in order to reduce its resolution.

Ensure the resolution settings are restored to default and the TV modes are cycled to default as well.

If that doesn’t seem possible in your case, you can locate the quick reset button of the device and restore the device settings to factory settings.

Afterward, reconnect both devices and check if the mode issue has been solved.

Check and update the Insignia TV Firmware

If the previous steps didn’t work, try updating your TV’s firmware.

Since the TV is working fine without plugging in the external device, remove the device and quickly check for update.

Actually, TV manufacturers often release firmware updates to improve performance and compatibility.

Access your Insignia TV update screen to see if there are any available updates for your TV model.

Since updates are programmed to install automatically, leaving your TV unconnected to the internet for some time can probably be the reason you’re running on outdated versions.

In this case, checking for updates manually is the best approach.

If there are updates, follow the instructions provided on your TV screen to download and install them.

Firmware updates can sometimes fix bugs and resolve compatibility issues that might be causing the Unsupported Mode message to appear.

Here’s how to go about it:

For Insignia Fire TV:

Grab your TV remote.

Navigate to Settings with the arrow keys.
Click on the My Fire TV or Device & Software option.
Select About from the list.

Scroll way down and select Check For Update.
Your TV will conduct the check automatically and prompt you the next step to take.

Follow the procedure accordingly as it downloads, installs, and restarts on its own.

For Insignia Roku TV:

Access the Settings option from the left side menu.

Click on Settings to access its options.
From the options list, scroll way down to locate System.
Click on System and then select System Update.

Then click on Check Now and hold as your TV will check for any recent version you’re missing out.
Simply follow the on screen prompt to complete a fluent system update.

For Non-smart Insignia TV:

Note down your Insignia TV model number
Visit the Insignia website from your computer or smartphone.

Input the model number of your TV.
Then you’ll see any recent firmware update released for your TV.
From there, you can download and install on your TV manually.

Reset Your Insignia TV to Factory Settings

If none of the previous steps have resolved the issue and your TV appears to be working fine without attaching the external device to it, you can try resetting your Insignia TV to its factory settings.

Keep in mind that this will erase any personalized settings or preferences you have configured on the TV.

Before performing a factory reset, consider backing up any important data or settings if you can, like your saved Wi-Fi details, customization, and App list.

Actually, the restoration process may vary depending on your specific Insignia TV model, it’s advisable to refer to the TV’s user manual for instructions on how to perform a factory reset.

Here is a step-by-step procedure for popular one’s.

For Insignia Fire TV:

Go to Settings in the upper left corner of your screen.
Navigate and select My Fire TV or Device & Software option.
Scroll way down to the last very option Reset To Factory Default.

Click on it and confirm your action by reselecting the Reset button.
This will take a few seconds for the TV to wipe off it data and reset back to a clean slate.

For Insignia Roku TV:

Select Settings from the sidebar menu.
Then select System from the list.
Scroll way down and select Advanced system settings.

Now click Factory reset.

You’ll be provided with two different options, Reset TV audio/picture settings and Factory reset everything.

You can firstly try out the first one since you are not well assured where the issue lies.
If that also fails to fix the issue, you can go ahead to reset everything hoping it rectify the Unsupported mode problem.

For the non-smart Insignia TV, press and hold the power button of TV while it’s in standby mode to access it recovery mode, then navigate through the options to select restore factory settings.

And also, you can check for any sort of reset button on your TV that you can use to perform the action on click.

Contact Insignia Support

If none of the above steps worked, it’s time to get in touch with both devices manufacturer.

Contact Insignia support and do so for the other device as well.

You can actually do this by visiting their website and submitting a support request, or by calling their customer service line.

Tips for Preventing Future Unsupported Mode Issues

Use Compatible Devices and Cables

When setting up your Insignia TV, it’s important to use devices and cables that are compatible with your TV.

This means using devices that match the specifications recommended by the manufacturer.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Check device specifications before connecting

Before you connect any device to your TV, such as a gaming console or a DVD player, make sure to check the specifications of the device.

Look for information about the supported resolutions and video formats.

If the device’s specifications are not compatible with your TV, you may encounter the Unsupported Mode message.

Use high-quality HDMI cables for optimal performance

HDMI cables are commonly used to connect devices to your TV.

It’s important to use good-quality HDMI cables to ensure a reliable connection.

Look for HDMI cables that are labeled as High-Speed or High-Speed with Ethernet.

These cables are designed to support higher resolutions and provide better overall performance.

Regularly Update Your TV Firmware

Firmware updates are software updates specifically designed for your Insignia TV.

These updates often include improvements, bug fixes, and compatibility enhancements.

To prevent future Unsupported Mode issues, it’s important to keep your TV’s firmware up to date. Here’s what you can do:

Check for firmware updates periodically: Manufacturers release firmware updates from time to time to improve the performance and compatibility of their TVs.

Using a smart Insignia TV, most models are programmed to install updates automatically.

If that’s not the situation in your case, you will need to check for updates manually.

Visit the Insignia website or the update page of your TV to see if any new firmware updates are available for your specific TV model.

Why is Insignia TV Saying Unsupported Mode