New computer shows no picture: check where the monitor is plugged in
The computer is humming, the lights are on, but the monitor says “No signal”. It is one of the most common situations with new PCs — and usually it isn’t a fault but where the cable went.
The main cause: the wrong port
At the back of a desktop there are two places for a monitor: higher up — the motherboard ports (next to USB), lower, horizontal — the graphics card ports. If the computer has a graphics card, plug the monitor into it. The motherboard port often gives no picture at all, or games and video stutter.
What else to check
- The right input on the monitor (HDMI 1, HDMI 2, DisplayPort) — the Input or Source button.
- The cable fully in at both ends; try another cable.
- The monitor is plugged in and shows its own menu.
- For 144 Hz monitors and above, DisplayPort is usually better than HDMI.
If there is still no picture
Then it may be memory, the graphics card or the build. In a new computer that is a reason to contact the shop under warranty. I can come and check connections and operation on site; I don’t repair parts or boards.
How I can help
I check the connection and monitor, install Windows and graphics drivers, and set the monitor refresh rate (e.g. 144 Hz instead of 60). Visit — from 50 ₾, Windows installation — from 50 ₾. More about a new computer — article.