PC showing ‘no signal’ on monitor, but was working a few weeks back. Suggestions?

Addressing the “No Signal” Issue on Your PC Display: Troubleshooting Tips for a Stable Setup

Experiencing a sudden “No Signal” message on your monitor after weeks of smooth operation can be both perplexing and frustrating. If you find yourself in this situation, especially with an aging PC setup, there are several diagnostic steps you can take to identify and resolve the problem. This article provides a comprehensive guide to troubleshooting such display issues efficiently.

Understanding the Context

Your system comprises an older but functional PC, equipped with a GTX 7x series GPU, 8GB of RAM, and an Intel Core i5 CPU. The setup was stable for over a year, connecting seamlessly to your monitor via HDMI or DVI. Recently, after disconnecting and storing the PC for a few weeks, you attempted to power it on again only to be greeted with a “No Signal” message on the monitor. Despite this, the PC appears to turn on normally.

Initial Troubleshooting Steps

Check Physical Connections
Monitor Cables: Confirm that your HDMI and DVI cables are securely connected to both the GPU and monitor. Swap cables to rule out defects.
Monitor Input Settings: Ensure your monitor is set to the correct input source corresponding to the cable you’re using.
Secure GPU Placement: Re-seat the graphics card to ensure it’s properly connected in the PCIe slot.
Test with Different Hardware
Monitor Compatibility: Test the PC with a different monitor or connect your monitor to another device (such as your laptop) to verify it’s functioning correctly.
Alternate Cables and Ports: Use different HDMI or DVI cables and try alternative outputs on the GPU if available.
Assess Power and Basic Functionality
Power Supply: Check that the PC’s power supply is delivering consistent power. Look for indicator lights or sounds indicating normal operation.
Peripherals: Disconnect all unnecessary peripherals that might interfere with startup.
Evaluate the GPU
Visual Inspection: Inspect the GPU for dust, damage, or loose connections.
Test with Integrated Graphics: If your CPU or motherboard supports integrated graphics, remove the GPU and connect the monitor directly to the motherboard’s video output. This can help determine if the GPU is at fault.
Reset and BIOS Checks
Reset BIOS Settings: Clear the CMOS by removing and reinserting the