If your monitor is not displaying an image, then it is likely that there is something wrong with either your computer’s graphics card or display cable. This problem can often be easily resolved, so this guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix it.
Check the Cables
The first step you should take when your monitor isn’t displaying an image is to check all of the connections between your monitor and your computer. Make sure all of the cables are plugged in securely, especially the video cable which connects your computer’s graphics card to the monitor. If you are using a VGA connector, check the pins for any damage, as this can sometimes cause the connection to fail. Also ensure that all of the cables are firmly attached to the back of the monitor.
If the cable is still not working, try switching it out with a different one if available. If that still doesn’t resolve the issue then the next step would be to check the graphics card itself.
Check the Graphics Card
The graphics card inside your computer is responsible for powering your monitor, so if there is a problem with it then it could be causing the image to not appear. To test if the graphics card is the culprit, open up your computer’s case and inspect it. Check for any physical damage such as breaks, bulges or burns. If any of these are present then the card may need to be replaced.
If the graphics card appears to be in good condition then it is worth trying to remove it and reinstall it. To do this, you will need to unplug all of the power cables from the back of the graphics card and remove the screws which hold it in place. Then, carefully remove the card from the system and re-install it, making sure that all of the screws are secure.
Once you have re-installed the card, you should power up your system and see if that has resolved the issue.
Check Display Settings
If the above steps did not fix the issue then there is a chance that the problem lies in the display settings. To check this, access the graphics card’s control panel. Here, you should look for the section labelled ‘Display Settings’ where you can adjust the resolution, refresh rate and other settings.
If the settings are not set correctly then this could be causing the monitor to not display an image. Try changing the resolution to a different value, such as from 1920 x 1080 to 1280 x 720. If this doesn’t work then you can also try changing the refresh rate to a lower value, such as 60Hz or 75Hz. Lastly, make sure that the correct output is selected, such as HDMI or VGA.
Once you have made the adjustments, save them and try restarting the computer to see if the issue has been fixed.
Try a Different Monitor
If all of the above steps have been unsuccessful then it is worth trying a different monitor. This can help to identify whether the issue is with the graphics card, the monitor itself, or both.
Conclusion
If your monitor is not showing an image then the causes can range from simple issues such as incorrect cables or display settings, to more complex problems such as a faulty graphics card. Therefore, it is important to follow the steps outlined above in order to diagnose and resolve the problem.