Monitor says “No Signal”? Try these fixes

⚡ Fast fix

• Is it plugged in? Make sure the cable is connected to your computer's graphics card port.
• Check for cable damage. A bent or frayed cable may require replacement.
• Look at the port. If it's dusty or grimy, clean it with a dry microfiber cloth.

Prepped and ready for a gaming sesh, you power up your PC. But instead of seeing the colorful desktop display, you're greeted with a "No Signal" message. Uh oh. Does this mean your computer is completely dead?

Asurion Experts resolve tech issues like this one every day. Whether you're dealing with a computer that won't turn on at all or other common Windows™ 11 problems, we have an answer. Here's how to fix no signal on a monitor in a few simple steps.

Why does my monitor say no signal

A PC monitor with no input signal usually has a bad connection. Something may be physically wrong with the cable, or you may have accidentally chosen the wrong input source. Some monitors use a similar port for the motherboard and graphics card, so confusing the two ports can cause your monitor to say no signal.

In most cases, there's nothing wrong with your hardware or PC. Fixing the connection issue (whatever the cause) will get your display working again.

Check your cables and input source

To fix a computer display with no signal, start with the basics—the cable itself.

Make sure the cable connects directly to a graphics card port, not the motherboard. When you're sure it's in the right place, verify that it's comfortably seated and not loose at either end. Check for any fraying or bends, too. Replacing the cable is necessary if it's noticeably damaged.

Also, confirm that you're using the right input source. Most displays have a physical menu or input button you can push. Press the button and make sure you've selected the right input for your display. You may need to navigate through the menu to find input options.

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Restart and power-cycle your devices

Minor technical glitches may cause no signal to monitor errors. To clear temporary bugs, perform a power cycle on your monitor and PC. Take these steps:

1. Power down both devices and unplug them for 30 seconds.
2. Plug the computer and monitor back in, then turn them on.
3. Wait to see if your display starts working.

Test with a different cable, port, or device

If you have another HDMI or DisplayPort cable available, use it on your display. The old cable may be failing if the monitor works with the new one.

You can also try switching the cable to another port on the monitor or graphics card. For example, if you have two or more HDMI ports, try using a different one. Ports can fail with age, and this switch may be enough to fix no signal input on a computer monitor.

Another simple trick is to plug the monitor into a different device, such as a laptop. If it doesn't work despite using a working cable and the right port, the monitor may have a hardware issue that requires repair.

If you're comfortable, check internal hardware

Still having issues with a monitor with no signal? If you don't have any qualms about opening your PC case, you can try to reseat the RAM and graphics card. Follow these steps:

1. Power down your PC and unplug it from its power source.
2. Pop the PC case open using its clips. If it has screws, use a screwdriver to remove them and gain access.
3. Locate the graphics card and RAM. Disconnect any power cables attached to them, and use a screwdriver to remove their screws.
4. Gently release any clips holding the graphics card and RAM in place. Remove both components, then slip them back into their regular spot.
5. Replace the screws and power cables for both components before closing the PC case. Power up your computer and monitor to see if the display works.

FAQ

Why does my monitor say "no signal detected"?

The most likely cause is a loose or misplaced cable. Secure the cable in the graphics card port and make sure it doesn't have any visible damage.

Why does my PC turn on but no display?

Your monitor probably has a bad cable connection. Make sure the cable is seated in the right PC port and isn't loose.

How do you fix a monitor that turns on but has no display?

Start with the quickest fix: secure the cable, making sure it's in the graphics port and that it doesn't have any fraying. You can also try using the monitor with another device (like a laptop) to rule out hardware problems.