A cathode ray tube video display comprises a cathode ray tube (CRT) for displaying a video signal (Vin) coupled thereto. A cathode ray tube electron beam blanker (201) is coupled to the cathode ray tube (CRT) and is responsive to a blanking trigger signal (GK) for blanking an electron beam (e) within the cathode ray tube (CRT). A blanking controller (200) is coupled to the cathode ray tube electron beam blanker (201) and generates the blanking trigger signal (Gk) for controlling electron beam blanking, wherein the electron beam (e) is blanked for different durations in accordance with one of a hot and cold start condition.