10 Fixes to the “Monitor is Not Getting Signal from Computer” Problem
If you’re staring at a black screen and seeing the “monitor is not getting signal from the computer” error, don’t worry—you’re not alone. This frustrating problem happens more often than you might think, and fortunately, there are a few simple solutions to get you back on track. In this guide, we will go over 5 effective fixes that can solve the issue of a computer not sending a signal to the monitor.
1. Check the Cable Connections Between the Computer and Monitor
One of the most common causes of a monitor not receiving a signal is a loose or disconnected cable. Start by checking the connection between your computer and monitor to make sure everything is securely plugged in. If you’re using HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA cables, make sure the ends are firmly inserted into both the monitor and the computer.
Tip: Try switching to a different cable if you suspect the cable might be faulty. In some cases, HDMI cables can wear out or become damaged over time.
2. Ensure the Monitor is Set to the Correct Input Source
Another common issue when your monitor is not displaying a signal is that it may be set to the wrong input source. For example, if you have multiple devices connected to the monitor, it might be looking for a signal from something like a gaming console or another PC instead of your computer.
To fix this, use the buttons on the monitor to navigate to the input menu and make sure it is set to the correct source. This can usually be done by selecting HDMI 1, HDMI 2, or DisplayPort, depending on what you’re using to connect your computer.
Tip: This step is especially important if you have recently switched cables or connected multiple devices to the monitor.
3. Restart Your Computer and Monitor
Sometimes, simply restarting your devices can resolve the “monitor not getting signal” problem. Power down both your computer and monitor, then turn them back on to see if the issue resolves. A restart can clear up any software or minor hardware glitches that might be preventing your monitor from getting a signal.
Tip: Unplugging both devices from the power source for a minute before restarting can sometimes help reset the hardware.
4. Check for Hardware Issues with the Graphics Card or Monitor
If you’ve gone through the previous steps and the monitor still isn’t receiving a signal, the issue might be related to your computer’s hardware. A malfunctioning graphics card, a damaged monitor, or an issue with the ports can cause this problem.
- Graphics Card: Ensure the graphics card is properly seated in the motherboard. If the card is loose or has come out of its slot, it won’t be able to send a signal to the monitor.
- Monitor: Try connecting the monitor to another computer to see if it works. If it doesn’t, the monitor might need repair or replacement.
Tip: If you suspect the graphics card is faulty, you can try using the integrated graphics (if your motherboard has them) to test whether the problem lies with the card.
5. Update or Reinstall Your Graphics Driver
Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can prevent your monitor from displaying anything at all. If you haven’t updated your graphics drivers recently, now is a good time to check for updates.
Go to the Device Manager on your computer and look under “Display Adapters” to check your graphics card. Right-click on it and choose “Update Driver.” If you can’t get into Windows, you may need to use safe mode or boot into the BIOS to perform the update.
Tip: If updating the drivers doesn’t help, try uninstalling and reinstalling the graphics drivers completely. This can resolve issues caused by corrupted files or settings.
6. Check for Power Supply Issues
A monitor not getting a signal from the computer could also be due to power supply issues. If your monitor isn’t turning on or is flickering, there may be an issue with the power source. First, ensure that the monitor is properly plugged into a working power outlet. Check if the power indicator light on the monitor is lit up. If it’s not, try a different outlet or test the power cable with another device to confirm whether it’s functioning properly.
Tip: If the monitor works in a different outlet or with a different power cable, you may need to replace the original power supply. Power problems are one of the most overlooked causes of monitor signal issues.
7. Test the Monitor with Another Computer
If your monitor is still not receiving a signal after checking all the cables and connections, try connecting it to a different computer. This will help you determine if the issue lies with the monitor or your original computer. If the monitor works with the other computer, the problem is likely related to your computer’s hardware or settings.
Tip: If the monitor still doesn’t display a signal when connected to a different computer, the monitor might be defective and need repair or replacement.
8. Reset BIOS/UEFI Settings to Default
Sometimes, incorrect BIOS/UEFI settings can cause your computer to fail to send a signal to the monitor. If you recently made changes in the BIOS or UEFI, it’s a good idea to reset them to default settings to rule out any configuration issues. You can reset the BIOS by removing the CMOS battery for a few minutes or using the reset jumper on the motherboard.
Tip: Be cautious when working with BIOS settings. If you’re unsure of how to reset your BIOS, consult your motherboard’s manual or look for guides specific to your model.
9. Adjust Display Settings in Safe Mode
If your computer is still not sending a signal to the monitor, it might be a display settings issue. Sometimes, your screen resolution or refresh rate may be set to an unsupported value, causing the monitor to display a “no signal” message. To fix this, you can boot your computer into safe mode. In safe mode, Windows will use default settings for the display, which should allow the monitor to get a signal.
Tip: To enter Safe Mode, restart your computer and press the F8 key (or Shift + F8 for newer systems) before Windows starts loading. Once in Safe Mode, go to the Display Settings and adjust the resolution to a lower value that your monitor supports.
10. Check for Overheating or Hardware Damage
Sometimes, overheating can cause your computer’s graphics card or other components to fail, which results in the monitor not getting a signal. If you have been using your computer for long hours, or if it has poor ventilation, overheating might be the culprit. Check the temperature of your graphics card and other key components using software tools to see if they’re running too hot.
Tip: Make sure your computer has adequate cooling, including fans or even additional cooling systems, to prevent overheating. If overheating persists, consider replacing damaged components, such as thermal paste or a faulty fan.
1. Why is my monitor not receiving a signal from the computer after a restart?
If your monitor is not getting a signal from your computer after a restart, it could be due to a few reasons. First, check if the monitor is set to the correct input source, as it may default to another device. Another possibility is a loose or damaged cable connection between the computer and monitor. Additionally, a corrupted or outdated graphics driver can prevent the computer from sending a signal to the monitor. Try restarting both devices again, check all cables, and update your graphics drivers to fix this issue.
2. How do I fix the “no signal” error on my monitor when using an HDMI cable?
If your monitor displays a “no signal” error when using an HDMI cable, start by ensuring that the HDMI cable is properly connected to both the monitor and the computer. If the cable is securely plugged in and the issue persists, test with a different HDMI cable or port. It’s also worth checking if the monitor input source is correctly set to HDMI. Lastly, make sure that your graphics drivers are up to date, as outdated drivers can cause the HDMI signal to fail.
3. What should I do if my computer is turned on but the monitor remains black with no signal?
When your computer is on but the monitor stays black with no signal, the problem could be related to the graphics card, the power supply, or the monitor itself. First, check if the monitor is properly powered on and connected to the computer. Then, ensure that the graphics card is securely seated in its slot and that the correct display output is selected. If the issue continues, try using a different monitor or testing the graphics card in another computer to isolate the problem.
4. How can I fix a monitor that doesn’t get a signal from my computer in Safe Mode?
If your monitor isn’t receiving a signal from your computer while in Safe Mode, it might be due to a display resolution or refresh rate setting that’s incompatible with your monitor. In Safe Mode, Windows uses default settings for the display, which can help resolve these issues. Adjust the display settings by lowering the screen resolution or refresh rate to match what your monitor supports. If that doesn’t work, check the cables and connections or reinstall your graphics drivers.
5. Can a faulty graphics card cause my monitor to show no signal?
Yes, a faulty graphics card can prevent your monitor from receiving a signal. If the graphics card is malfunctioning or improperly installed, the monitor will not display any image. To check if the card is the issue, you can try using the onboard graphics (if available) or test the graphics card in another computer. If the monitor works fine with another card or onboard graphics, you likely need to replace the faulty graphics car.