Computer Turns on but No Display on Monitor: How To Fix the Error

Computer turns on but no display on the monitor is a common issue many users can face. This happens when the PC is receiving the power to keep it on, but a black screen is displayed instead of a working screen.

Users can hear the fans working or see the lights on the CPU, but the screen remains blank. Keep reading to learn more details about this issue and how you can solve it!

Why Computer Turns on but No Display on Monitor Error Happens?

A computer turns on but no display on monitor issue can happen because of several reasons:

• PSU issues such as internal damage or outdated driver
• Damaged, corrupted, or outdated GPU
• Faulty RAM
• Problems with CPU and motherboard
• Broken or damaged hardware items

– Faulty PSU

A faulty Power Supply Unit (PSU) means either it is damaged, a setting has been changed that needs to be fixed, or there is an update available that is required for the outdated driver. Only because the fans working can be heard or because the lights are on doesn’t mean yet that the PSU is working properly. Be aware that the chances are higher that the PSU will cause such types of problems than any other hardware.

– Faulty GPU

A Graphics Card or Graphics Processing Unit is responsible for all the graphic displays seen on the screen. If a fault occurs in the GPU, this issue can arise. The GPU can be damaged, corrupted, or outdated, and that may be causing the monitor to not display anything.

– RAM

Ram is a memory module or hardware of the computer that is found on the motherboard. If RAM is not working properly, no display error will occur while the computer is powering on. This problem can occur if either the RAM is damaged or if it is not connected to the computer properly.

– CPU and Motherboard

The PC is turned on but no display error occurs if something on the motherboard is not working properly or there’s a problem in the CPU — such as overheating problems. A thorough check is required to see if all the hardware devices on the motherboard are attached and located properly.

– Faulty Hardware Items

Check for any broken computer hardware devices. Furthermore, you can have a test run of the PC to see if any device is corrupted.

Sometimes, it is preferred to remove all the hardware items and check them separately to see if the fix solved the issue or not.

How To Fix the PC Turns on but No Display Issue?

A computer turns on but no display on monitor issue has several fixes:

• Restart the PC, check the monitor’s connection and the brightness level
• Check and change the RAM
• Test the power supply
• Listen for beep codes
• Clear the CMOS
• Test run on GPU
• Use the Wake Action shortcut
• Boot PC in safe mode
• Clear BIOS memory
• Reinstall graphics card

– Start With Easy and Common Fixes First

There are a couple of easy checks that you must perform as the problem may be not as complex as you think:

• restart your PC

The first step to a computer’s problems should be restarting it. Make sure your computer is completely restarted as, sometimes, the computer doesn’t fully restart and instead goes into a low-power state to speed up the start-up. Since the screen is not showing a display, the user has to force the restart. That is done by pressing and holding the power button down for a few seconds before the PC restarts. This might resolve the issue.

• check the monitor’s connection

Check if the monitor is plugged into the switch properly. Turn off the power, remove the switch, and plug it in again tightly. Check if it works now. If it still doesn’t, then the issue is in the connection between the monitor and output device. Thus, check if the monitor is properly plugged into the video output device or the GPU. Correct it if the mistake is found and start the computer again.

Also, ensure that all the power cables required for a computer start-up are plugged in properly. Sometimes, the GPU needs a supplemental connection, and if it doesn’t have any, it can cause the no display issue. So use that additional connection and check if the monitor is displaying now.

• check the brightness level

Sometimes, the brightness level of the monitor is set so low that it doesn’t show anything on display, and the user assumes that there is something wrong with the monitor.

To increase the brightness, check your keyboard for the keys that have a sun-type icon on them; press that to increase the brightness. Make sure that the computer is attached to the power cable and powered on before you do it.

• check or disconnect all peripheral devices

Try unplugging unnecessary hardware devices from the computer. For example, extra drives, USBs, speakers, extra monitors, etc. Restart the computer. If the screen is still black, try a different cable type or a different port on the computer.

– Reinstall or Change the RAM

Check if the RAM is fixed properly on the motherboard. After that, proceed to check if it’s working or if it’s corrupted. To see if the RAM is working fine, remove it from the computer and stick it back into the slot after thorough cleaning. Place one RAM back into the motherboard and start the computer. If it doesn’t work, insert another RAM in the same slot.

This way, you will be able to locate the damaged slot or a damaged RAM. If the computer works fine with the single RAM stick in a specific slot, that means the other one was either a damaged RAM or the problem is with the slot. While placing the RAM, it will make a “Click” sound, which means it is placed firmly. The RAM that is not inserted correctly can prevent the computer from working properly.

PC turns on, but no display on monitor error may also occur if the connection between motherboard and RAM sticks is loose. Sometimes, clogged memory slots and faulty or corroded modules can also cause this issue. To check the RAM issue, read the points below.

1. Open the computer’s protection box.
2. Search for two or four rectangular green sticks on the motherboard.
3. Each stick has two clamps on each side; push them, so the board comes out of its notches.
4. Put the sticks aside on a clean cloth.
5. Use a cotton swab to clean the dust and air pressure to remove the dust from the insides.
6. Put one of the modules back on the slot and push it down until a “Click” sound is heard.
7. Ensure every wire to and from the motherboard is connected to the right place.

If this fails to solve the issue, it means one of the RAM is faulty:

• To check faulty RAM, start the system with just one module.
• Then place the same module in different slots and test the PC one by one.
• Repeat this procedure for all the memory modules to spot the fault.

– Test the Power Supply

Sometimes the power supply appears to be working, but it can also have an internal error that prevents all computer parts from receiving sufficient power. Thus, causing the no display error on the monitor. A test run can solve this issue, but the user can use a power-supply tester rather than a multimeter to see if the PSU is working according to the required power for a computer. The following steps should be taken when checking the power using a power supply tester.

1. Unplug and open the computer.
2. Remove the power cables that are attached to other components on the motherboard.
3. Check for the voltage switch on the PSU to make sure it’s correct.
4. Plug the largest and the smallest power connector, depending on the model the user has.
5. Plug the PSU into a wall outlet and turn on the power.
6. Turn on the power supply tester and check the screen on the device. If the screen isn’t working, that means the PSU is faulty.
7. None of the numbers should show LL or HH, because that means that the power-supply is bad and in need of a change.
8. Check the power supply tester manual against the voltage reported on the screen. They should be within the given limits of the PSU. In case the numbers are out of the range, or the delay value is not 100-500ms, a replacement of the PSU is required.
9. Before replacing the PSU, make sure the model is acceptable and compatible with the components of the computer that will run the PSU. If it fails the compatibility test, the monitor will not work.

– Listen for Beep Codes

Some computers make sounds to alert the user that there is a problem detected with the system. These beeps allow the user to fix the problem and make the no display error disappear. Follow the steps below to identify the error.

1. Turn on the computer.
2. Listen to the beep sounds carefully.
3. Count the total number of beeps and whether they are fast or slow or if the code is repeated. It’s okay to start the computer multiple times to check the accurate beep sounds.
4. Check a manual for your BIOS model to determine what is causing the beeps.

Remember, recognizing the cause of a beep sound is not the end solution to the no display issue. It is used only to determine the reason for the error.

– Clear the CMOS

Clearing the CMOS battery on the motherboard resets the BIOS to default. If the black screen on the monitor is caused by BIOS settings, then clearing CMOS should fix it. Following are the troubleshooting steps.

1. Shut down the computer.
2. Press the power switch on the computer three times.
3. Locate the CMOS battery on the motherboard.
4. Proceed to remove it from the slot.
5. Wait a few minutes.
6. Place it back in the slot and restart the computer.

The BIOS will be reset and back to the way it was when the computer was used the first time. This should fix the PC on but no display malfunction.

– Test Run On GPU

When the GPU is damaged or corrupted, the monitor display will not work. It is essential for graphics or video cards to work properly. Try running a test on the GPU to know if it is functioning the way it should. Run a series of benchmark programs to see which one the GPU can handle. Note that’s not possible if the monitor isn’t working; thus, place the GPU on another computer and run its tests.

After placing the GPU on another PC, check if it’s booting the system. If it does, try running a stress test on it. Download programs such as Unigine Heaven, 3dMark, or FurMark and use the software to see if the GPU is working effectively. Another way is to disassemble the GPU, clean it, use the fresh thermal paste and then reassemble it. That will manage the temperature and keep the GPU stable.

– Try Using Wake Action Shortcut

If the computer is in sleep mode and refuses to wake up, then use four keys on the keyboard; Windows Key, Ctrl, Shift, and B. Press them simultaneously. This command reinitiates the driver and makes your system start with an effective working monitor screen.

Another method to resolve the malfunction is to ensure the “view on second display only” option is not enabled. Check the steps below.

1. Press Windows + P keys together.
2. Press the P key once more and hit Enter.
3. Since the screen is not visible, the user has to repeat the same procedure four times. This is because there are four display modes: “PC screen only”, “Duplicate on second display”, “Extend across all displays” and “Second screen only”.

– Boot PC in Safe Mode

Another method is to boot the system in “Safe-Mode”. This feature loads the computer at a minimum resolution, allowing the user to view settings and change all functions and settings back to normal. Basically, a way of resetting the computer.

See the method given below.

1. Power off the computer and turn it on it again after a few minutes.
2. In the middle of the booting process, press and hold the F8 key.
3. The user will find multiple options from which they have to choose “Safe Mode“.
4. Now, go to the System Settings and lower the computer resolution.
5. Go to the Start menu by using the Windows icon at the lower-left of the monitor.
6. Search and press the gear icon to open Windows Settings.
7. Navigate to System > Display > Scale & Layout > Display resolution.
8. Stick to the recommended rate and save the changes.

– Update the Hardware Drivers

Check if all the hardware drivers are updated or not. The hardware drivers must be compatible with the computer system. Updating these drivers can fix the no display on the monitor screen issue instantly. However, this cannot be done since the monitor screen isn’t working. So, boot the computer in safe-mode and continue with the following steps:

1. Search “Device Manager“.
2. Click on the top option to open the app.
3. Expand a category, depending on what driver is to be updated.
4. Right-click the specified device name.
5. Click “Update Driver” and proceed to the on-screen directions.

– Clear BIOS Memory

It is the Basic Input/Output System that is a built-in program that the microprocessor uses to start the Operating System. Since all major functions of booting are located here, it can be the reason why the computer doesn’t display when it is powered on. Any misconfiguration in the software can result in a non-loading system. Thus, clear the BIOS memory by accessing the BIOS chip on the motherboard.

Due to cleaning the BIOS memory, it will automatically reset BIOS into the default status. All the changed settings will be back to how it was programmed originally. Follow the given steps.

1. Press and hold the power button for a few seconds. It will switch off the computer.
2. Unplug it from the wall socket.
3. Open the computer chassis to access the motherboard.
4. Locate the CMOS cell battery and flip up the protective clip.
5. Then remove it from its place.
6. Wait about five minutes and put the battery back.
7. Reconnect the power and start the computer.
8. If it still doesn’t work, remove the CMOS battery and boot the system without it.
9. If the no display error is gone now, then the CMOS chip was the problem.

– Reinstall Graphics Card

If the GPU test run fails and the error isn’t resolved, then remove and reinstall the GPU on the motherboard. Clean it thoroughly as well.

Below is the step-to-step procedure to Install GPU.

1. Unplug the computer first and then detach all the cables at the back of the PC tower.
2. Open the system enclosed by using a screwdriver.
3. Find and unscrew the board from the PCI bracket.
4. Hold the board and toggle the retention level to unclip the board from its position.
5. Reconnect the cables and turn on the PC without the graphic card.
6. If it doesn’t work still, follow the other steps.
7. Clean the corrosion on the golden pins with isopropyl alcohol and a cloth.
8. Then use a damp cotton swab and air compressor to clean up the dust and grease from the slots.
9. Attach the graphics card and ensure the clips secure it firmly.
10. Now start the computer.
11. It should work now. But if it doesn’t, place the graphic card into a different slot and test the computer.
12. In case nothing works out, call for professional help.

– Check the Computer’s Temperature

The easiest way to check the computer’s temperature is through the BIOS. This method is approachable only if the computer is loaded using Safe-Mode.

1. Staying in the Safe Mode, go to the Start menu and click on Settings.
2. Navigate to Update and Security > Recovery > Advanced Startup.
3. Click on the “Restart Now” button to view a blue window with the “Choose an Option” message.
4. Press “Troubleshoot”, “Advanced Options,” and then “UEFI Firmware Settings.”
5. After the BIOS page emerges, find an option saying, “PC Health Status” or “System Hardware Monitor”. It can have different names depending on the PC.
6. Ensure the PC temperature remains between 70 °C or 158 °F.

FAQs

1. How To Stop the Computer Turns on but No Display on Monitor Error?

Check the settings to see whether the computer is on a power plan that turns off the display. Sometimes, this setting is on, and if it doesn’t detect any movement or use for a while, it shuts down the displays even if it leaves the hard drives on. The user can simply adjust it from their computer’s settings.

2. Can RAM Cause the Display Screen To Turn Black?

Yes, RAM can cause the display to go black. Without RAM, the computer cannot function. This means the monitor display will not be shown and will turn black when you turn it on. If you think this is the reason, try to change the slots of the modules or install new RAM chips.

3. What To Do if the Computer Does Not Boot After Turning It On?

 

1. Check the power supply and battery life.
2. Disconnect all external devices and unplug the USB devices.
3. Inspect the computer monitor.
4. Boot the Windows in Safe-Mode.
5. Startup repair.
6. Perform a System Restore.
7. Rebuild MBR.
8. Resolve boot errors.
9. Check and repair computer hard drive corruption.
10. Reinstall the Windows.

4. Why Is the Display Getting No Signal When the PC Is Turned On?

Loose or any damaged cables can cause this issue to occur. In case the computer display has multiple source inputs, make sure you’re using the correct ones.

5. How To Fix a Display That Doesn’t Turn On After the PC Goes Into Sleep Mode?

The display isn’t turning on because the computer isn’t waking from sleep mode properly. Try to wake the computer by the movements of the mouse, pressing any key on the keyboard, or quickly pressing the power button. If the computer turns on but the monitor is still asleep, force wake up it using the keyboard shortcut, Win+P or Ctrl+Alt+Del.

6. How To Change Display Settings in Windows When the Display Isn’t Working?

Try turning on the narrator feature — it is available in computer models such as Windows 11 and 10. This screen-reading application helps the user to navigate through the display settings, even when it isn’t visible. The user can turn it on and off by pressing the Win+Ctrl+Enter button altogether.

Conclusion

After reading the article, you have the knowledge on how to tackle this PC is on but no display issue.

Here are the key takeaways from this article:

• PC is turned on but no display on monitor error is not permanent damage to a monitor.
• Few selective programs and test runs are required to resolve the issue. If it doesn’t, then thoroughly check the hard drives and hardware of the computer.
• Ensure all the drivers on the motherboard are compatible with the System Software or the monitor display will not work. Update them to resolve the issue.

Now try fixing your computer with the solutions provided in this article.