How to fix a PC that turns on but doesn't display an image: a complete guide

¿How to fix a PC that turns on but doesn't display an image? When your computer turns on, the fans spin, the keyboard lights up… but the screen remains completely black, it's one of those glitches that drives anyone crazy. The good news is that most of the time the problem can be located and solved without having to replace half the PC.as long as you follow a logical order and don't just randomly touch everything at once.

Based on the experience of manufacturers like Microsoft and Dell, technical guides, and real user cases, a fairly reliable method can be devised to diagnose whether the fault lies in the screen, the graphics card, the RAM, the power supply, the BIOS, or even Windows. In this guide you will find a step-by-step journey, starting with the simple and progressing towards the more technical aspects.so you know what to check at any given time and how to act without taking risks with the hardware or your data.

1. Check the basics: monitor, cables and power supply

Before opening the box or assuming the motherboard is dead, you have to rule out the obvious. Many cases of "PC turns on but no image" are simply due to a monitor that is turned off, a loose cable, or an incorrect input..

Start with the basics: Make sure the screen is turned on, with the status LED illuminated and the power cable properly inserted. both on the monitor and at the power outlet or strip. Modern cables (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C) don't have screws like the older VGA and DVI cables, so they can easily come loose with a simple tug while cleaning your desk.

Next, check the video cable. Gently press the connector inwards into the monitor and the PC to confirm that it is not loose.There's no need to force it, just make sure it fits properly. If you still don't get a picture, try a different cable (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI, depending on your setup) that you know works, or test the same cable with another device, such as a laptop or game console.

Another point that is overlooked: Many monitors have multiple video inputs (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI) and you choose which one to use from their OSD menuIf you have the cable connected to the HDMI port, but the monitor is set to display via DisplayPort, you won't see anything even if your PC is working perfectly. Go into the monitor's menu and select the correct input source.

If you have another screen or a Smart TV available, it's a great idea to try it out: Connect your PC to another monitor or TV and, conversely, connect your "suspicious" monitor to another computerIf your monitor fails with everything but the other monitor works without problems with your PC, it's pretty clear that the problem is with the screen or its cables.

2. Confirm that the PC actually boots up

Once the obvious issues on the monitor have been ruled out, the next question is whether the computer is actually starting up or just turning on lights. Power symptoms, motherboard beeps, and status LEDs are very helpful in pinpointing the point of failure..

First, look at the basic signs: Does the power button LED light up? Do the CPU fan and case fans spin? Do you hear the hard drive (if you have a mechanical one) or any other typical startup noises? If none of those signs are present, you may have a power supply or motherboard problem, rather than a video problem.

Many OEM motherboards and equipment perform a power-on test (POST). If the board has a speaker or beeper, it can emit beep codes that indicate what is wrong.Memory, graphics card, CPU, etc. Some models also use combinations of LEDs. In that case, consult your motherboard or PC manual (or search the manufacturer's website) to interpret those codes.

If you see the manufacturer's logo (for example, Dell) or the BIOS message when you turn it on, but then the screen goes black when you enter Windows, then things change: That points more to an operating system problem, graphics driver issue, or resolution setting problem.not a physical failure of the monitor or card.

Conversely, if you see absolutely nothing from the first second, not even the startup logo, It is much more likely that the source is the graphics card, the RAM, the motherboard, or the power supply itself.In that case, it's time to lift the PC lid and check the hardware.

3. Disconnect peripherals and perform a "forced reset"

Before disassembling components, it is advisable to eliminate possible conflicts with external devices and clear residual power states. A faulty peripheral or a "stuck" power supply can block the startup process without it seeming like it..

Do the following with the device completely turned off: Disconnect all peripherals that are not strictly necessary (printers, external hard drives, USB hubs, cameras, USB speakers, etc.). Leave only the keyboard, mouse, and video cable connected to the monitor.

Next, perform a "forced power reset" similar to the one recommended by manufacturers like Dell: Turn off the PC, unplug the power cable from the power supply, also disconnect the monitor's power supply, and hold down the PC's power button for 15 to 20 seconds.This helps discharge capacitors and clear temporary states that sometimes cause strange lockups.

Reconnect only the power cable of the PC and the monitor, and try turning it on again. If an image now appears, there was probably a conflict with some peripheral device or some electrical component had become "stuck".From there you can reconnect devices one by one to locate the culprit, if there is one.

Yes, even after this reset and with the bare minimum connected, You're still in total darknessThen you need to focus on the internal components: RAM, GPU, motherboard, BIOS or power supply.

4. Check and test the RAM memory

RAM is one of the first things the BIOS checks when you turn on the computer. If the RAM is improperly connected, dirty, or one of the modules is damaged, the PC may power on without displaying a video signal..

With the computer turned off and unplugged, open the tower. First, touch a metal surface to discharge static electricity. Locate the RAM modules on the motherboard, release the side tabs, and carefully remove each module.Take this opportunity to inspect the contacts for any dirt, debris, or visible damage.

To clean, Gently wipe the gold-plated contacts with a lint-free cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol. and let it dry completely. Do the same (but very gently) to the slots on the motherboard, blowing them out with compressed air if you have it. Then, replace a single module in the slot recommended by the manufacturer (usually the one closest to the processor or the one marked DIMM_A2 or similar), making sure the tabs click into place.

Try starting the computer with only one module. If it works with one and not the other, it's very likely that one of the modules is defective.Try switching between modules: test with the other module only, and if it fails no matter what you do, you've identified the culprit. Replacing that module with one of equivalent specifications usually solves the problem.

On many motherboards, when the RAM fails, they emit beeps or LED codes. If you have continuous beeps or beeps in a specific pattern right when you turn on the car, check the manufacturer's code table because they almost always indicate memory errors.In that case, even if the RAM appears to be properly installed, repeat the cleaning process and try different modules if possible.

5. Graphics card: connections, try another output and integrated graphics

The graphics card is the other major candidate when the PC turns on but nothing is displayed. A simple forgotten PCIe power connector, a damaged HDMI port, or a conflict with the integrated graphics can leave you without a picture. without the rest of the team being truly broken.

The first thing to look at with a dedicated GPU is its cables: Almost all modern cards require 6, 8 or more pin PCIe power connectors from the power supplyIf you built your PC yourself or your power supply is modular, it's very easy to have forgotten to connect that cable. Even if the card is plugged into the PCIe slot, without that extra power it won't work and the monitor will remain black.

Disconnect the device from the power outlet, open the box, and observe the graph: Check that all power connectors are properly plugged in and that there are no loose or excessively bent cables.If you had unusual Y-connectors or adapters, try using the original power supply cable to rule out a faulty adapter.

Next, check the video ports on the graphics card. Over time, HDMI or DisplayPort connectors can deteriorate, bend internally, or accumulate dirt and oxidation.If your card has multiple video outputs, try a different one than the one you normally use (for example, from HDMI to DisplayPort) and, if possible, use a new or tested cable.

Another very useful test, if your processor has integrated graphics (iGPU), is Temporarily remove the dedicated graphics card and connect the monitor to the motherboard's video output.Note: Just because your motherboard has HDMI or DisplayPort doesn't mean your CPU has integrated graphics; check your processor model on the Intel or AMD website. Intel models with the suffix F (like the i5-10400F) don't include integrated graphics; AMD models with the letter G (for example, the 5600G) usually have integrated graphics.

If you get an image using the motherboard's output but not with the dedicated graphics card, The problem clearly points to the graphics card or its power supply.On a desktop computer, you can always test that GPU in a friend's or family member's PC to confirm. If it doesn't work there either, that's a bad sign: it will need to be repaired or replaced.

6. Check the power supply and other internal components

Even though it may seem that everything is turning on, A faulty power supply may not be providing stable or sufficient power to all components.This causes restarts, black screen freezes, or the graphics card not starting up correctly.

Check all the cables that run from the power supply to the motherboard and the GPU: 24-pin ATX connector, 4/8-pin EPS connector for the processor, and PCIe connectors for the graphics cardIn modular power supplies, make sure they are also properly inserted into the power supply block itself, not just the motherboard.

If you have another compatible source on hand, even a more modest one, it's a very valuable test: Temporarily connect that other power source to see if the device boots up and displays an image.There's no need to take everything apart; just connect the motherboard, CPU, graphics card, and system hard drive. If it works with the other power supply, you've found the culprit.

While you have your PC open, take the opportunity to check other components: Check that the hard drives and SSDs are properly connected (SATA and power), that there are no loose cables causing a short circuit, and that the motherboard does not have any swollen or burnt capacitors.Although rare, these physical failures can explain starting problems without any other clues.

If your motherboard or manufacturer (e.g., Dell) provides diagnostic tools like SupportAssist, once you get the computer to boot from the image It runs a full hardware test, especially of the graphics card and memory.It will help you detect silent errors that are not visible to the naked eye.

7. Reset BIOS/CMOS and check video settings

The BIOS/UEFI controls, among other things, which graphics card is used as the primary one and how devices are initialized at startup. An incorrect or corrupted configuration can cause the PC to boot but never send a signal to the video port you are using.

If you've recently changed BIOS settings, overclocked, or updated firmware, something might have gone wrong. To restore the factory settings, Turn off the PC, unplug it from the power outlet, and locate the CMOS battery on the motherboard.It is usually a silver CR2032 type button cell battery.

Carefully remove the battery using your fingernail or a non-conductive screwdriver, wait 5-10 minutes, and then replace it. This process erases the custom BIOS settings and restores the default values.including the system clock (which is why the date and time often appear incorrect). If the battery is very old, you can take this opportunity to replace it with a new CR2032.

When you turn it on again, enter the BIOS if you see an image. Look in the advanced chipset or graphics options for a parameter like “Primary Display”, “Initial Display Output” or similarIt usually offers options like Automatic, iGPU (integrated graphics), or PCIe/dedicated GPU. If you have a graphics card you want to use as your primary one, select the GPU/PCIe option and save the changes.

If, when entering the BIOS, you only see the PCIe output option but it doesn't detect your card, the motherboard probably doesn't "see" the dedicated graphics card, which indicates a hardware problem with the card or the PCIe slot itself. In that case, if you've already tried other things, it's time to consider taking the equipment to a specialized technical service.Because continuing to experiment without experience can end up damaging more components.

8. Monitor and screen settings in Windows

When the computer manages to load Windows but the screen remains black or displays messages such as "No Signal" or "Input not found", there are a number of specific checks you can perform. Sometimes Windows does start, but it does so using a resolution or output that your monitor cannot display.In those cases, check guides on compatibility and resolution and how to adjust them for your monitor.

First, double-check that the monitor is plugged into the correct input and that it has not entered power-saving mode. If you're using a laptop with an external monitor, press Windows + P and select Duplicate or Extend. To force the use of the external display. If you were incorrectly in "PC screen only" or "Second screen only" mode, this will correct it.

If the monitor displays a message like “No Signal” but detects that something is connected, check the internal settings: Try changing the input source, checking the brightness and contrast, and if possible, reset the monitor settings to factory defaults. from your OSD menu.

Dell or Alienware monitors, for example, have a self-test function: Turn off the monitor, disconnect the video cable, turn it on with only the power supply connected, and check if a diagnostic screen appears.If you see that test screen, the monitor is working and the problem is with the PC or the cable; if it doesn't even show the self-test, it's most likely a fault with the monitor itself.

Once you have the image installed on Windows, it's a good idea to update everything: Update your graphics card drivers (from the official NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel app), check for BIOS updates, and run Windows Update to install patches that fix compatibility issues with screens, HDR, refresh rates, etc.

9. Black screen after updating Windows or graphics drivers

One of the most common cases today is that of Users who, after updating Windows or graphics card drivers, are left with a black screen Although the PC appears to boot up fine. This has been especially noticeable with certain NVIDIA drivers in the last times.

If you suspect Windows has already started but you don't see anything, wait a minute or two after turning on your computer and try a little-known shortcut: Press the combination WIN + CTRL + SHIFT + BThis shortcut restarts the video driver and, if the problem is that the screen has "gone to sleep", it usually restores the image with a small beep.

If you don't have any luck with that shortcut, the next step is to enter Safe Mode. Windows Safe Mode loads only the basic display drivers and minimal servicesThis is ideal for uninstalling problematic drivers. To force a boot into Safe Mode without seeing anything, you can use this trick:

• Turn on your PC and wait about 10 seconds.
• Press the Reset button or turn it off abruptly..
• Repeat this cycle 3 times in a row; on the third time, Windows should launch automatic repair.

When the recovery environment appears, you should already see an image. From there, go to Advanced options > Troubleshoot > Advanced options > Startup settings and click RestartIn the next menu, choose the option to start in Safe Mode with Networking (usually F5).

Once in Safe Mode, the next step is to clean the graphics drivers. The most effective tool for this is Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU)This removes remnants of old drivers that often cause conflicts. Uninstall the current drivers with DDU, restart, and let Windows install a generic driver; then download the latest recommended version from your GPU manufacturer's website.

10. More serious software problems and formatting

If you've checked your monitor, cables, RAM, GPU, BIOS, and drivers, and you only see the problem when Windows tries to load, it's almost certain that The problem may lie within the operating system itself: corrupted files, damaged configurations, or failed installations..

In the Windows recovery environment (the same one that appears when you force failed restarts several times), you can try less aggressive options before formatting. One is "System Restore" to a previous restore point to the date the problems started. Another is "Uninstall updates" (both quality and feature updates) if you know the problem started right after a specific patch.

You can also open a command prompt and use tools like sfc / scannow o DISM / Online / Cleanup Image / RestoreHealth to repair corrupted system files. They require a bit more technical skill, but can save you from a complete format.

If none of this works, the least pleasant moment arrives: consider reinstalling Windows from scratch.This usually resolves almost any software issue, but it means losing settings and, if you haven't made a backup, data as well. That's why it's so important to always have up-to-date backups on another drive or in the cloud.

If your PC is not displaying an image but you need to recover important documents from the internal hard drive before formatting, one strategy is Mount that drive in another computer as a secondary drive. and copy the files from there. There are also tools that allow you to create specialized bootable USB drives to recover data from computers with a black screen, loading a lightweight environment without relying on your broken Windows installation.

11. Recovering data after fixing the video problem

When you finally manage to get your PC to display an image again, you may find that folders, documents, or even entire partitions are missingespecially if there have been disk errors during the process or power outages. This is where data recovery solutions come in.

The general idea behind these tools is similar: You install the recovery program on another working PC, create a bootable drive on a USB or CD, and then boot from that media on the problematic computer.This way you avoid writing anything to the disk from which you want to recover information.

Once that recovery environment starts, you select the location (physical disk, specific partition, or even folder) and You let the software thoroughly analyze the disk's contents to locate deleted or inaccessible files.Then you can preview what it has found and choose what you want to restore.

It is always advisable to save the recovered data to a different drive (an external hard drive, for example), so as not to overwrite sectors that may still contain files to be recovered. Once you have the most important data backed up, you can consider formatting or recreating partitions with much more peace of mind..

In the end, having a good automatic backup plan (in the cloud or on a NAS) will save you all this stress the next time your PC decides to boot without giving you an image or Windows gets corrupted after an update goes wrong.

Following this orderly path —from the simplest to the most technical, including monitor, cables, RAM, graphics card, power supply, BIOS, drivers and Windows— Most "PC turns on but no image" problems end up having a reasonable explanation and solution....without needing to change computers at the first sign of trouble or going crazy trying random things. Now you know everything about How to fix a PC that turns on but doesn't display an image.