Computer turns on but no display

Though it might look complicated at first glance, just work your way down the list, step-by-step, and we’ll try to get you back on track.

Fix 1: Force restart your computer

If all you see is a black screen after pressing the power button, try pressing the power button for 10 seconds to force shut down your PC, then turn it on. Doing this repeatedly for three times, the Windows Startup repair should launch automatically.

If nothing happened after turning your PC on and off a coupon of times, that could indicate a hardware problem. Read on and see how to fix it.

If you boot into Automatic Repair, select Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup settings > Restart > Safe Mode with Networking, then skip to Fix 7 to see how to fix potential issues with your system.

Fix 2: Check if your monitor is working

If your computer starts but displays nothing, you should check is if your monitor is working properly.

Check the power light of your monitor to verify that it’s turned on.

If your monitor won’t turn on, unplug the power adapter of your monitor, and then plug it back into the power outlet. If the problem still exists, you need to bring your monitor to the repair shop.

If your monitor works fine, move on to the fix below.

Fix 3: Reconnect your monitor to your computer

A poor connection between your monitor and your computer might also be the cause of your problem. In this case, reconnecting the two devices is very likely the solution to your problem. Here is how to do it:

1) Press and hold the power button until your computer turns off.

2) Unplug the video cable which connects your monitor to the computer.

3) Check the port connectors on your computer and on the monitor.

Note: If any connector on your device is bent or damaged, you’ll need to us.

4) Check to see if your video cable is damaged. If the video cable is fine, reconnect your computer to your monitor. Or, if you have another video cable available, try connecting the two devices using the new cable.

5) Try turning on your computer to see if it can boot normally.

If your computer fails again, read on and check the fix below. 

Fix 4: Disconnect your peripherals

Sometimes, certain peripherals connected to your computer may also cause the black screen issue. Try disconnecting all your peripherals to see if that’s the core problem. Here is how to do it:

1) Press and hold the power button until your computer turns off.

2) Disconnect all peripherals (your printer, scanner, mouse, etc.).

3) Try turning on your computer again.

If your computer boots correctly, that means that one of the peripherals you removed is causing your problem. You should reinstall each device back into your computer and test them each time. Then, you’ll find the specific device that causes your problem. (Replace the device once you’ve identified it. Or, consult the manufacturer of the device for assistance. )

If your computer still can’t boot correctly, try the fix below.