50 Quick Reference Guide

Video and Monitor Problems

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the
safety instructions in the
Product Information Guide
.
NOTICE: If your computer came with a PCI Express graphics card installed,
removal of the card is not necessary when installing additional graphics cards;
however, the card is required for troubleshooting purposes. If you remove the card,
store it in a safe and secure location. For information about your graphics card, go
to support.dell.com.

The screen is blank

NOTE: For troubleshooting procedures, see the monitor documentation.
CHECK THE MONITOR CABLE CONNECTION —
• Ensure that the monitor cable is connected to the correct graphics card (for dual graphics
card configurations).
• If you are using a DVI-to-VGA adapter, ensure that the adapter is correctly attached to
the graphics card and monitor.
• Ensure that the monitor cable is connected as shown on the setup diagram for your
computer.
• Remove any video extension cables and connect the monitor directly to the computer.
• Swap the computer and monitor power cables to determine if the monitor’s power
cable is defective.
• Check the connectors for bent or broken pins (it is normal for monitor cable connectors
to have missing pins).
CHECK THE MONITOR POWER LIGHT —
• If the power light is lit or blinking, the monitor has power.
• If the power light is off, firmly press the button to ensure that the monitor is
turnedon.
• If the power light is blinking, press a key on the keyboard or move the mouse to
resume normal operation.
TEST THE ELECTRICAL OUTLET —Ensure that the electrical outlet is working by
testing it with another device, such as a lamp.
CHECK THE DIAGNOSTIC LIGHTS —See "Diagnostic Lights" on page26.