It may seem that getting your PC up and running is as simple as plugging it in and turning that on, but it isn’t always the case. It makes little difference whether your computer’s fans are spinning if you can’t see anything on your display that permits you to utilize it. A monitor with no signal might leave you scratching your head with no answers.
Fortunately, this kind of issue is generally simple to resolve. If some of the more typical remedies don’t work, you’ll need to explore a possible hardware issue for repair or replacement. Here are some troubleshooting strategies to attempt when your PC monitor loses signal to assist you to cope with display difficulties.
Check Your Power and Cabling
Before you yank out your graphics card or hurry to Amazon to get a new display, take a close check at your computer and monitor to make sure there are no cabling or power problems.
This is a straightforward test. Begin by inspecting the wiring between your display and computer for any loose connections. For example, a loose HDMI cable might prohibit your PC’s output from being viewed (and vice versa).
It’s also possible that the display cable is faulty. If you see cable damage or the cabling is old, replace it with something new. This may occasionally fix any issues with your monitor display right away.
It’s also possible that your display isn’t operating properly due to a power problem. If your monitor displays a no signal error, you may presume it has power; but, if your PC isn’t turned on, you won’t see any errors.
Is the monitor’s source of input correct?
A no signal error on a display might indicate that your computer’s graphics output is being ignored by your monitor. This may happen if your monitor’s input source is set to the incorrect device.
Multiple input sources, such as VGA, HDMI, and DVI, are accessible on most display displays. You can connect many devices to the same display this way. This might be many PCs or a PC and a gaming console, which you could switch between using the firmware menu on your display or physical controllers.
If this is the case, verify sure your monitor’s input source is configured properly. If it isn’t, change the source (for current PCs, HDMI, or DVI) to get your display functioning again.
Examine the Monitor’s Resolution
A PC monitor may show your PC output in a limited number of display resolutions. If your graphics card is set to a higher display resolution than your monitor can handle, you’ll most likely see a blank screen or a no signal warning.
Fortunately, repairing a blank monitor screen after altering your display settings is simple. Wait 15 seconds if the display abruptly loses resolution after you’ve changed the settings—Windows will then restore to the previous resolution.
Your monitor resolution may have been updated automatically if you haven’t modified your display settings lately. There are workarounds, such as rebooting Windows and booting into Safe Mode to avoid the problem and achieve a better resolution.
In Safe Mode, Windows uses a significantly lower display resolution than it does in regular mode. This will enable you to reduce the resolution of your normal display to a level that your monitor can handle.
If you’re not sure what resolutions your monitor supports, look it up in the user manual or on the manufacturer’s website. Alternatively, for a little trial-and-error, utilize the 15-second window to alter your resolution. If the resolution causes your display to cease operating, Windows will restore to the prior working configuration.
Update the drivers for your graphics card
The monitor itself is frequently the center of your diagnostic efforts when a display issue develops, but the graphics card your PC uses is often the main cause. If you’re seeing a blank screen on a new monitor, you’ll need to update your graphics card driver.
As previously stated, your PC might occasionally utilize a resolution that is not supported by your display. Likewise, your monitor may support resolutions that your graphics card does not, particularly if you’re upgrading to a 4K panel or switching from a 60Hz to a 240Hz display.
Fortunately, upgrading the graphics card drivers usually solves the problem (so long as the graphics card is relatively new). To obtain access to new features and problem fixes, you should update your drivers on a regular basis. Support for new monitors and display resolutions is included.
If you have an NVIDIA graphics card, for example, you can quickly update your NVIDIA drivers via Windows Update or by downloading them straight from the NVIDIA website.
Test on a different monitor or computer
If you’re convinced that the problem isn’t due to a software issue (such as outdated drivers), you may need to test a different monitor or PC as part of your troubleshooting attempts.
Replace your computer’s display with a spare (if you have one available). If the issue is repeated, it’s probable that your PC has a problem that has to be investigated further.
Similarly, if your primary monitor stops operating but your backup monitor functions perfectly, this might signal a hardware issue with your display. However, this does not rule out the possibility of another software problem. This error might still be caused by outdated drivers or an inappropriate display resolution, so you’ll need to look into it more.
Invest in new hardware
If you’ve exhausted all software remedies and any faults with your hardware can be recreated with other associated devices after rigorous testing, you’ll need to consider replacing it.
A malfunctioning graphics card, for example, may prevent any visual output to your monitor, resulting in a no-input signal. If the drivers aren’t the issue, your graphics card will need to be replaced.
A malfunctioning display that won’t operate with numerous devices won’t mend itself, either. You should investigate your warranty alternatives or, failing that, consider purchasing a new monitor.
If your monitor flickers or there are signs that the device is failing, you should consider replacing it. If your display takes a long time to turn on, for example, this may be the issue.
Troubleshooting PC Hardware
Don’t be alarmed if your monitor shows a no input signal error message. The procedures above should help you diagnose the problem, but you may need to check into further diagnosing your monitor or PC to see whether you’re entitled to a replacement or repair under your device warranty.
You don’t want to be in the same predicament a year or two down the road, therefore investing in the correct PC hardware is critical. Cheap isn’t always the most cost-effective option, so think about your budget before buying new PC components or a new computer or monitor.
