A black screen is probably one of the most frustrating problems a PC user is forced to deal with. You turned your computer on, but it shows nothing on the screen. If you’re using a DisplayPort connection (which is popular with gamers, as well as professionals), the failure could be due to a mere wiring issue. A bad DP Cable, a poor/loose connection or a faulty setting can be reasons why you get this irritating black screen.
Before you work yourself into a frenzy about pricey hardware failure, take a deep breath. DisplayPort issues are so peculiarly specific, weird quirks with a seemingly simple interface. In this guide, we’ll show you five simple, step-by-step troubleshooting tips that should get your monitor back in pristine working condition. These solutions are for everyone, from tech novices to IT experts, with many able to be implemented in a matter of minutes.
First, Some Preliminary Checks
Before we get too carried away with fancy algorithms, let’s start with the simplest explanation. These are the quick checks to solve most ‘DisplayPort not working’ issues without much effort.
- Verify Power Connections: Confirm that your computer and monitor are plugged into a working power outlet and the power switches are on. A loose power cord is a frequent suspect.
- Check the Cable and Ports: Check your DisplayPort cable to see if there is any visible damage, such as a bent pin or frayed wiring. Unplug the cable from both the monitor and your computer, look for any dust or debris on the plugs or ports, then push it back in right and tight. A secure connection is essential.
- Reboot Everything: The old “turn it off and back on again” trick is sometimes magical. Or turn off your monitor and shut down your computer. Leave them off for about a minute, then turn them back on. This basic reset can sometimes resolve the black screen.
The table below shows how often these simple steps solve the problem.
| Troubleshooting Step | Success Rate | Time to Implement | Difficulty |
| Check Power Connections | 90% | 1 minute | Easy |
| Inspect Cable and Ports | 85% | 2 minutes | Easy |
| Restart the Computer and Monitor | 70% | 3 minutes | Easy |
5 Advanced Troubleshooting Fixes
If the initial checks didn’t fix your black screen of death could be due to a system/software or hardware issue. Next, let’s try some slightly more advanced but still easy troubleshooting.
1. Update or Reinstall Your Graphics Drivers
Corrupted or old video drivers can cause display issues. Your monitor requires the right software to interface with your graphics card, and an outdated or corrupt driver could prevent it from working.
- To Update: Press the Windows key + R, type devmgmt.msc, and hit Enter to open Device Manager. Expand the “Display adapters” section, right-click your graphics card (for example, NVIDIA or AMD), and click “Update driver.”
- To Reinstall: If you cannot update, right-click the graphics card again and select “Uninstall device.” Once uninstalled, restart your computer. When you reboot, Windows should automatically reinstall a default driver, and the problem will be fixed.
2. Replace the DisplayPort Cable
Just because the DP Cable “looks good” doesn’t mean it’s not damaged on the inside somewhere down the line. Cables can wear out, and if a cable is bad, it may not carry the display signal all the way through.
Try replacing the cable you are using with a new one or a known-good DisplayPort Cable. If the black screen goes away, you’ve eliminated your problem! It’s low-tech, inexpensive and incredibly effective, with dumb people and older folks.
3. Check Your Monitor’s Input Source
Your monitor could be receiving a signal from the wrong entrance, say HDMI rather than DisplayPort. They have this menu button where you can do that by hand on most monitors.
Press “Menu” or “Input” on your monitor and look for input source settings. Make sure “DisplayPort” is selected. It’s a minor oversight, but a frequent one.
4. Lower the Refresh Rate
High refresh rates are perfect for the smooth visuals of high-speed gaming, but not all cables or screens can be counted on to serve them properly. This generally happens when the refresh rate is too high for the black‐end files. Games like Google Block Breaker will run on a normal system, but for good gameplay, a good setup is recommended.
You might have to try temporarily connecting your monitor with a different cable (for example, HDMI) to adjust this. If you have one in hand, right-click your desktop and select Display settings > Advanced display settings, then pick a lower refresh rate (like 60Hz).
5. Disable PCI Express Link State Power Management
This is a Windows power-saving feature that may actually get in the way of your graphics card and lead to display problems. Turning it off can help achieve better connectivity.
To accomplish this, click Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Power Options. Click “Change plan settings” next to the power plan you’re using, and then click “Change advanced power settings.” Search for “PCI Express,” locate “Link State Power Management”, and slide it to the off position.
Your Next Steps
Most of the DisplayPort No Signal issues you will encounter with your own devices also have a resolution if you follow these steps. Begin with the easy stuff and then move on to more complex fixes. Making sure your drivers are updated and using high-quality cables can help prevent this from happening again.
If you’ve tried everything and the black screen remains, it’s probably time to take your Mac to professionals. Umm…that could be your monitor, or graphics card fault. I suggest contacting the manufacturer’s support or a local IT professional is the best.
