FAQ
TL;DR: "Problem solved" by using the GPU’s other display connector; 1 thread‑documented fix shows a port/cable mismatch can block POST video. Try the other port or an adapter, then set display accordingly. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17026144]
Why it matters: For PC builders and fixers facing “PC on, monitor black, no BIOS beep,” this FAQ speeds root‑cause isolation to the display path.
Quick Facts
- Two PSUs tested (XFX Pro 550W and Fujitsu Siemens 300W) showed the same no‑display symptom, pointing away from power. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17024093]
- Pulling RAM triggered characteristic beeps, confirming the board was alive and reaching POST checks. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17023687]
- The actual fix: moving the cable to the GPU’s second video output and using an adapter. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17026144]
- System output was set to the “second connector,” so matching the cable/port restored image. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17026154]
- Testing another room/outlet didn’t change symptoms, lowering the chance of a mains issue. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17023669]
What’s the most common quick fix when the PC runs but there’s no display?
Check the display path first. Move the cable to a different video output on the graphics card. Try a different cable type or a simple adapter that matches your monitor. In this case, switching to the card’s other connector restored video immediately. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17026144]
How do I fix “PC on, no image” fast?
- Move the monitor cable to another video port on the graphics card.
- If ports differ, use a matching adapter at the monitor or GPU.
- Power on, set the monitor’s input to that connector, and test.
This exact sequence resolved the thread’s case. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17026144]
Can a weak PSU or bad outlet cause a black screen at boot?
It can, but rule out display first. In this thread, testing another room and outlet did not change the symptoms. That lowered suspicion of power quality and refocused on cabling and ports. Always try alternate GPU outputs before replacing power hardware. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17023669]
How can I confirm the motherboard is alive without video?
Remove the RAM and power on to force beep codes. In this case, removing memory produced characteristic beeps, showing the board reached early POST. That indicates CPU, board, and speaker are working at a basic level. Reinstall RAM after the test. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17023687]
Which cable should I use if my GPU and monitor ports don’t match?
Use the connector that the GPU outputs to during POST, or add a simple adapter. The thread’s fix was to use the other GPU connector and an adapter to the monitor. “Problem solved,” once the cable matched the active output. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17026144]
Should I unplug peripherals during troubleshooting?
Yes. Disconnect keyboard, mouse, and extras to simplify the test. As one helper put it, “Keyboard, mouse and all other things, disconnect and turn on the PC.” This reduces variables and lets you focus on POST behavior. [Elektroda, 310artur, post #17023691]
It worked at the seller’s place but not at home—what changed?
Often, the cable or active video port changed. In this case, the seller used a different connector. At home, switching to the GPU’s other output with the right adapter immediately restored video. Replicate the seller’s cable/port. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17026144]
Does swapping the power supply help diagnose no-display issues?
It can, but results vary. Here, an XFX Pro 550W and a 300W unit produced identical symptoms. That pointed away from PSU faults and toward the display path. Swap PSUs only after trying different GPU ports and cables. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17024093]
Which BIOS/UEFI setting can block video on the graphics card?
Check Primary Display/Initiate Graphics Adapter and set it to PCIe/PEG. Ensure the monitor cable is on the graphics card, not the motherboard. This avoids routing to the integrated GPU during POST. Save and reboot. [Intel: No Display After Installing a Graphics Card]
Will a passive DisplayPort‑to‑HDMI/DVI adapter always work?
No. Passive adapters require a DP++ (Dual‑Mode) output. If the DP port lacks DP++, you need an active adapter. Without it, you may get a black screen. Check GPU specs or use an active DP adapter to ensure signal conversion. [VESA DisplayPort Dual-Mode (DP++)]
What else should I test before blaming the motherboard or GPU?
Swap the cable, change GPU ports, and try another monitor. Test the PC at a friend’s place. In this case, three different power leads changed nothing. That highlighted display path faults instead. Only then suspect the GPU or board. [Elektroda, FactoryRSV, post #17023687]
What do RAM error beeps sound like at startup?
They vary by BIOS vendor. AMI documents repeating beep patterns for memory errors. If you remove RAM and hear repeated tones, the board is signaling memory issues. Reinstall RAM or reseat it and retest video output. [AMI BIOS Beep Codes]