Troubleshooting Display Issues with the Lenovo M910q: A User’s Journey

Recently, I embarked on a mission to breathe new life into a Lenovo M910q I acquired at a bargain price on eBay. With its 7th generation Intel i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, coupled with a SATA SSD upgrade, the machine seemed like a solid candidate for a Windows 10 installation, which I ultimately plan to resell. However, I encountered a frustrating display issue that has left me stumped.

The Setup

My setup includes a vintage LG monitor connected to the Lenovo M910q through a VGA to DisplayPort adapter. During my initial attempt to power up the device, I was greeted with the Lenovo logo for a brief moment. Unfortunately, that was the last time the screen displayed anything. Since then, the monitor has remained dark, despite the audible indications that the computer is indeed operational—the fan hums, and I can hear the processor whirring away.

Possible Culprits

I’m pondering whether the adapter I purchased—an inexpensive model from Amazon—could be the root of the problem. It’s worth noting that older monitors can sometimes struggle with modern connections, and compatibility issues might arise. Alternatively, could it be that my monitor has simply reached the end of its lifespan?

Seeking Solutions

While I’m still working through these potential pitfalls, I would appreciate any insights or recommendations from fellow tech enthusiasts who may have faced similar scenarios. This experience has certainly underscored the importance of ensuring that all components in a setup work well together, especially when dealing with older technology.

If you have any tips for troubleshooting display issues, or suggestions for alternative adapters or monitors, please share your thoughts in the comments!