Good day!
There is no doubt that now one of the most universal and widespread interfaces for connecting TVs, monitors, and various set-top boxes to PCs (and laptops) is HDMI. Moreover, one cable is enough to simultaneously transmit high-quality image and audio signals. Comfortable!
Now closer to the topic... Many users connect HDMI devices with a cable without turning them off (this connection is called "hot") ! And because of this, in some cases, the HDMI port may burn out. Most often this happens when connecting a computer to a TV (less often to a monitor, and even less often to a video camera, for example). In some cases, not only the port burns out, but also the video card, motherboard, and other hardware (you must agree, this is not the most pleasant situation).
Why is this happening?
The HDMI port may burn out. Why and how to prevent?
Many of our panel and brick houses have “problems” with grounding (not to mention small rural houses, where there are no projects at all...). For some reason, in our country few people give due attention to grounding...
So, if you (let’s say) have a plasma TV connected to such an outlet without grounding, then under a certain set of circumstances, it can induce phase on the HDMI cable. Because of this, if you do not carefully insert the connector when connecting, for example, you touch the outer contour of the plug while trying to get into the socket, then the device can “burn” (sometimes a small spark may “appear”).
I will also note that if the computer and TV are connected to different outlets, then even if they are both grounded, there may be such a thing as different “ground levels”. You may have even noticed how sometimes you were “beaten” by static (precisely, most often, because of this...).
HDMI burned out (such a case is still rare. Usually, after burning, HDMI looks the same as before... without external signs)
How to prevent this: In order to reduce the risk of burning something to a minimum, you need to follow a simple sequence.
- Before connecting/disconnecting via HDMI, completely turn off the computer (laptop) and TV (monitor);
- Next, disconnect the plugs from the sockets. If you are dealing with TV, then disconnect the antenna cable (if you have cable TV);
- connect the device's HDMI cable;
- reconnect the television cable to the TV;
- connect the devices to the power supply;
- turn it on.
However, I will add that if your sockets are not grounded, then even this method does not provide a 100% guarantee. A grounded outlet, a good surge protector, a high-quality HDMI cable, and a “cold” connection are perhaps the most reliable things that can prevent such a problem...
Important!
Please note that the HDMI cable may cause a fire! In some cases, the temperature at the ports (where the cable connects to the device) can reach temperatures that cause sparks and melt plastic. Several photos above are proof of this.
Diagnostics. What to do if HDMI doesn't work
It’s not at all a fact that if you don’t see an image on the screen when connecting via HDMI, it means something has burned out. For example, a black screen on TV may mean a simple lack of signal. Therefore, to begin with, it is recommended to pay attention to the points below.
1. Check the connectors and pay attention to the TV/monitor settings
The fact is that modern TVs quite often have several HDMI ports (2-3). So, it’s not at all uncommon for users to connect to one port and select another in the TV settings.
The classic TV menu is presented in the photo below: you can choose one of three HDMI ports, in addition, AV and Antenna TV are available.
In addition, check whether the cable is tightly inserted into the sockets of the PC and TV/monitor. Try reconnecting (not forgetting the first part of the article!) .
2. Check the integrity of the cable (use a similar one)
If your HDMI cable is old enough (and has not been handled very carefully, which is actually not uncommon), kinks (twisting) often occur and it no longer transmits the signal. Moreover, in appearance, “everything” may be relatively fine with it, but inside the copper veins have already been broken.
3. Checking and setting up your PC/laptop
Please note that when you connect 2 monitors to your computer (or a monitor and a TV, for example), you will have a special. menu where you can select the projection option:
- display the image on both screens;
- display the image only on one of the screens;
- make one common screen (see below).
Note! There is a special feature on laptops. The keys to call such a menu, for example, on ASUS are Fn+F8.
What I mean is that perhaps you have a setting in Windows that prohibits displaying the image on the second screen...
To help! How to connect a second monitor to a laptop -
4. Check the relevance of video drivers and their settings
The picture from the PC may not be “transferred” to the TV/second monitor due to problems with drivers (due to their absence, for example).
To help! How to update the driver for an AMD, nVidia and Intel HD video card: from A to Z -
For example, in the IntelHD settings there is a special “Multiple Displays” section that will help you find and configure the connected device. If you have connection problems, I recommend checking it...
If HDMI still burns out, pay attention to other ports (analogues): for example, you may also have VGA, DVI, Display Port. What I mean is that you can (at least temporarily) use a different interface. It can help in cases where there are no spare parts for your equipment, or there are no funds for repairs yet.
Monitor connectors (VGA, DVI, HDMI, Display Port). What cable and adapter is needed to connect the monitor to a laptop or PC -
Best wishes!
HDMI ports are used in almost all modern technology - laptops, TVs, tablets, on-board computers in cars and even some smartphones. These ports have advantages over many similar connectors (DVI, VGA) - HDMI is capable of transmitting audio and video simultaneously, supports high-quality transmission, is more stable, etc. However, he is not immune to various problems.
HDMI ports come in different types and versions, each of which requires a suitable cable. For example, you won't be able to connect a standard-sized cable to a device that uses a Type C port (the smallest HDMI port). You will also have difficulty connecting ports with different versions, plus you need to select the appropriate cable for each version. Fortunately, with this point everything is a little simpler, because... some versions provide good compatibility with each other. For example, versions 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.4a, 1.4b are fully compatible with each other.
Before connecting, you need to check the ports and cables for various defects - broken contacts, debris and dust in the connectors, cracks, bare areas on the cable, flimsy fastening of the port to the device. Some defects can be easily eliminated; to eliminate others, you will have to take the equipment to a service center or change the cable. Problems such as exposed wires can be hazardous to the owner's health and safety.
If the versions and types of connectors match each other and the cable, you need to determine the type of problem and solve it in an appropriate way.
Problem 1: Image does not appear on TV
When connecting a computer and TV, the image may not always be displayed immediately; sometimes you need to make some adjustments. The problem may also be with the TV, computer infection with viruses, or outdated video card drivers.
Let's look at the instructions for making standard screen settings for a laptop and computer, which will allow you to configure image output on TV:
Setting up the display does not always guarantee that everything will work 100%, because... The problem may lie in other components of the computer or in the TV itself.
Problem 2: sound is not transmitted
HDMI integrates ARC technology, which allows you to transmit audio along with video content to a TV or monitor. Unfortunately, the sound does not always begin to be transmitted immediately, since to connect it you need to make some settings in the operating system and update the sound card drivers.
The first versions of HDMI did not have built-in support for ARC technology, so if you have an outdated cable and/or connector, then to connect audio you will have to either replace ports/cables or purchase a special headset. Audio support was first added to HDMI version 1.2. And cables released before 2010 have problems with sound reproduction, that is, it may be broadcast, but its quality leaves much to be desired.
Problems connecting a laptop to another device via HDMI occur frequently, but many of them are easy to solve. If they cannot be resolved, then most likely you will have to change or repair the ports and/or cables, since there is a high risk that they are damaged.
There are various ways to connect a computer or laptop to a TV. One of them is the use of HDMI. Have you installed the equipment, prepared the device for output, but the TV does not want to broadcast the picture from the screen? The article discusses problems with connecting a cable to a computer and offers instructions for resolving the problem.
Diagnostics
If your TV does not see a device connected via HDMI, and a message indicating no connection is displayed on the screen, then simple instructions will help solve the problem.
The type of error on the TV screen may vary depending on the model and brand
Cable check
First of all, eliminate the possibility of damage to the cable itself. To do this, connect the wire to another device and check the image output. You will immediately discover the cause of the problem or narrow down the troubleshooting area. If the cable does not work with other equipment, the recommendation is obvious - you need to purchase a new one. If everything works, then you should check whether the signal source on the TV is selected correctly:
- On the TV remote control, find the button for selecting the external input option. The most common ones are: HDMI, source and input.
- Go to the menu.
- Now you need to select the input to which you previously connected the cable and confirm the action.
Check the number of the socket to which the cable is connected
Check monitor support on laptop
The problem may occur if the laptop or computer monitor is configured as the main one. To change the main output device, you need to go to the settings on the PC itself.
Windows 8
To set up Windows 8 you need to do the following:
Windows 7
In Windows 7, in addition to the connection method through the control panel, there is a special program that comes with the system:
Windows 10
To set up TV output in Windows 10, follow these steps:
Windows XP
Despite the fact that support for this OS has long been discontinued, you can still connect modern TVs to it:
Mac OSX
Connection to a Mac OSX system is made using a specialized Belkin Mini DisplayPort to HDMI cable.
The Belkin cable can be purchased at any store that specializes in Apple technology.
As in other systems, you have the opportunity to select the required monitors and their number: built-in and/or external. There are three monitor modes on Apple. We are interested in the extended desktop:
Linux
We will look at the instructions for the most popular distribution - Ubuntu:
Checking the video card
Quite often, the problem with displaying images on the screen is outdated software of the video card to which we are connecting. To eliminate this problem, you need to install the latest driver. But first you need to find out the exact name of the video card model.
On Windows
We will look for information about the video card in the “Device Manager”. To enter it, use the universal method that works on any version of the OS:
On Mac OSX
On a computer running Mac OSX, the algorithm is approximately the same:
On Linux
The easiest way to find out information in this system is through the terminal:
Driver update
Now we have information about the video card model. We follow the instructions common to all systems:
- Go to the official website of the video card manufacturer.
- Select your model through the search and download the driver.
- Install them. You may need to restart your computer.
Checking the health of the HDMI port on your TV and laptop
Inspect the HDMI connector. It should not be severely damaged, metal parts should not be broken or bent. If the port is damaged, you will need professional help to replace it.
The connector may break if used incorrectly: pulling the wire too sharply, trying to connect the wrong cord, etc.
The easiest way to accurately determine the functionality of the port is to use an HDMI cable that you are sure is working. So if you have one on hand, use it.
Checking connectivity through other connectors
If the TV does not display an image due to a damaged HDMI port, it is not necessary to immediately contact a service center. If the other ports are working properly, you can purchase an adapter and connect it to the corresponding socket.
Types of adapters
Adapters come in the following types:
Audio playback problems
If the device is connected and working, but the connected TV does not play audio, then there may be two reasons for this. Perhaps you are using an adapter to connect HDMI to an external monitor that is not equipped with an audio interface. In this case, the solution is obvious - change the adapter. But most often the problem with audio playback on an external device is due to incorrect hardware settings.
Windows 7 and 8
The setup is identical in these two versions of Windows:
Windows 10
To configure audio output in Windows 10:
Windows XP
In Windows XP, the setup is done as follows:
Mac OSX
The setup on Mac is as follows:
Linux
Most distributions use Pulseaudio Volume Control software. Use the program to configure audio output as follows:
Correcting HDMI connection errors is not a difficult task if you have clear and accessible step-by-step instructions in front of your eyes. Now technical problems will not be able to ruin your pleasant evening in the company of your favorite films or TV series.
The HDMI connector has become increasingly popular in recent years because, unlike other ports, it has the ability to transmit audio. Absolutely all laptops are equipped with such a connector, thanks to it you can easily connect to a TV and display images on a large screen. Let's look at what you can do if HDMI on your laptop doesn't work, depending on the situation.
What should you do first?
First, you need to determine what caused the problem, since how to solve it may vary depending on the situation.
A common phenomenon is that HDMI does not work on a Windows laptop, that is, after the connection has been made, you only see an empty desktop on the screen. Here the problem lies not in the connector or cable. The fact is that the TV here acts as an extension of the laptop screen, i.e. it becomes an additional desktop area. To see the window in this situation, it will be enough to simply move it left or right.
This is not enough for correct operation, so you need to switch the display to full desktop duplication mode. To do this, proceed as follows:
If the HDMI output on your laptop does not work, this method will help fix the problem.
The laptop sees the connection, but there is no image on the TV display. First of all, you need to check the connection. The wire should sit firmly; carefully inspect it for damage and kinks. If they are present, the cable will have to be replaced.
If everything is absolutely fine with the cable, there is no damage, then you need to check whether the correct socket was selected. Often TVs have several ports at the same time, but signal reception in the settings is set to only one port.
Everything is fine with the picture, but there is no sound. In this situation, your task is to route the audio signal correctly. To do this we do the following:
If HDMI on your laptop stops working, and all of the above steps did not help, then you should check whether the port itself is in working condition. Sometimes they burn out - naturally, you will have to take the laptop to a service center. To avoid this problem, be sure to disconnect the cable cable and satellite dish from the TV before connecting. If the outlet that supplies power is not grounded, disconnect power from all devices before connecting.
It is worth noting that troubles of this kind can appear both with the TV port and with the laptop connector. To find out exactly where the problem lies, connect another gadget using HDMI. If problems are found with one of the devices, it is best to seek help from professionals.
Service center for laptop repair in St. Petersburg. We do our work professionally, see for yourself. Laptop glass crack? Need a screen replacement? - - we will complete it in one day. We repair Lenovo laptops, constant discounts.
Synchronizing your TV and computer can significantly expand the functionality of your equipment. The user will be able to play video games on the big screen, watch movies, TV series and TV shows. There are several connection methods, but HDMI remains the priority option. In some situations, the computer cannot see the TV via HDMI. What causes this problem? There are several options. Now we will look at each of them, and also provide useful recommendations for restoring the connection.
The abbreviation HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface. This is a modern connector that simultaneously transmits audio and video. Almost all equipment is equipped with this interface. “Tulip” and other cables that were popular in the past are designed to transmit an analog signal. The HDMI cable broadcasts digital content with Full HD or 4K resolution (depending on version).
Therefore, if you need to connect a computer to the TV screen, then it is best to use this interface. The connector ensures data transmission in the highest quality and with minimal latency. Unlike other wires, HDMI simultaneously transmits sound and video to the TV.
The HDMI interface was introduced back in 2002. Since then, the developers have released many different modifications. They gradually increase the capacity of the cord. The developers try to timely add support for popular formats and many other useful features.
HDMI versions older than 1.4 support Internet signal transmission, 3D and 4K resolution. An Internet connection via HDMI differs from wireless Wi-Fi technology in increased data transfer speeds, as well as a more stable and reliable signal. The most popular HDMI form factors are:
- type A – classic version;
- type C – mini HDMI;
- Type D – micro HDMI.
The last two types are designed to connect mobile phones, cameras and other portable devices. What causes wire breakdowns? Mostly short circuits and mechanical damage.
Causes of problems and their elimination
Why can't my computer or laptop see the TV? There are several reasons. Let's list the most popular:
- equipment is connected incorrectly;
- HDMI cable is damaged;
- the interface on the PC, laptop or TV is faulty;
- problems with video card drivers;
- incorrect monitor settings;
- The settings on the TV are incorrect;
- The GPU processor of your computer or laptop has failed.
Now we will study in detail why connecting a computer to a TV does not work. Main stages of equipment diagnostics:
- Assessing the correctness of the connection diagram and visually inspecting the integrity of the wires.
- Checking your computer and TV settings.
- Testing the computer operating system for viruses.
- Diagnostics of port performance by connecting to other devices.
- Checking for updates for the video card driver.
Now let's take a closer look at why the TV doesn't find a PC or laptop. We will offer useful troubleshooting tips.
Broken cable
In situations where the image was broadcast correctly from a laptop connected to the TV, and then the synchronization stopped, you need to start by checking the integrity of the cable. The plug may have come loose or the wire may have been broken. Mostly problems arise precisely because the plug comes off. This could even happen due to the fact that the user simply passed by. Mechanical damage to the cord is less common. Cables come in different lengths. Therefore, users have the opportunity to choose the best option for themselves. This eliminates interruptions.
If the laptop is connected to the TV and there is still no picture, then first check that the plugs are inserted correctly into the connectors. If the TV does not see from the TV, try a different cord. It cannot be ruled out that connection failures occurred as a result of wire damage.
TV is not configured
Some TV models do not have an option to automatically detect the signal source. Especially if you have previously configured TV synchronization with other devices. In situations where, when connected via HDMI, the TV does not see the laptop or computer, take the remote control, and then select the list of available signal sources. From the proposed list you need to select “HDMI”.
If the signal detection when connecting the cable did not occur automatically, then you need to do all the work manually. Step-by-step algorithm of actions:
Many modern TV remote controls have a button "HDMI". This means that you can ignore the second point of this instruction. Just press this key. As a result, a switch to this signal source will occur. Pre-select the desired port. How to do this is described in the third and fourth paragraphs of the instructions.
If any difficulties arise in the process of selecting a signal source, carefully study the instructions that came with the TV. It describes in detail the process of connecting additional devices using the HDMI connector.
Incorrect monitor settings
If there are no problems with signal transmission, then you need to diagnose the settings of your laptop or computer. Very often, the computer does not see the TV via HDMI precisely because of incorrect system parameters. No special knowledge is required for this. You just need to follow these simple instructions:
- Hover your mouse over an empty space on the screen, and then right-click.
- In the context menu that appears, select "Screen resolution". Sometimes this point is called "Graphic characteristics". It all depends on the version of the operating system.
- Choose the best way to display the image on your big TV screen. Stick to the resolution specified in the TV specifications.
The settings panel is much easier to turn on on a laptop. Press the key combination Fn+F4. Hold this combination until the optimal resolution is automatically determined. As soon as the laptop or PC goes into sleep mode, the image will go out. Therefore, it is better to disable automatic sleep in order to establish an uninterrupted connection with the TV.
Video card problem
A broken video card is another common reason why the TV can no longer see a laptop or PC. An inscription appeared on the screen « » , what to do in such situations? To fix the problem, you need to update the drivers. Finding them on the Internet will not be difficult. You can download the update package from the official website of the GPU processor manufacturer.
You need to start by studying the technical parameters of the video card. The fact is that not all graphics modules support the option of displaying images on multiple monitors. You can familiarize yourself with such characteristics in the documentation that comes with the video card. If all documents have been lost, then you can use special software.
To update GPU adapter drivers, follow the step-by-step instructions:
As noted earlier, drivers can also be downloaded yourself. You should not download files from unverified sources. Download updates exclusively from the official portal of the video card manufacturer. Installation is carried out through an automated installer. Therefore, there should be no problems.
Connection port not working
Absolutely all connectors are subject to mechanical damage and short circuits, as a result of which the contacts burn out. Therefore, carelessness by the user or a sudden surge in voltage can also lead to the computer not seeing the TV. Experienced specialists strongly advise connecting the HDMI cable only if all equipment is de-energized.
Over time, the HDMI output pad on your computer oxidizes. Because of this, the device does not detect the connection. Contact a service center to have qualified engineers resolder the damaged contacts, thereby restoring the functionality of the connector.
In some situations, connection problems arise due to the fact that the video card is not equipped with an additional power supply. Therefore no synchronization takes place. It will be extremely difficult for an ordinary user to check the functionality of the connection. It is extremely important to first analyze the features of the graphics adapter.
Viruses on your computer
Sometimes the laptop does not see the TV via HDMI due to the presence of viruses or malware on the laptop. This problem occurs extremely rarely, but this cause cannot be completely ruled out.
To increase the level of security of your PC or laptop, download an antivirus. There is absolutely no need to buy a license. At first, you can get by with the free version, which is valid for a limited time - on average about 30 days. As an example, let's look at the process of launching a scan using Kaspersky Anti-Virus:
- Activate the program, and then run the scan command by clicking on the corresponding icon.
- Select scan type – "Full check", and then click on the button "Run scan".
- A comprehensive scan of the operating system for viruses can last about 2-3 hours. If the antivirus finds malicious applications or infected files, this will be written about in the scan report.
Difficulties in the process of setting up a connection between a PC and a TV via HDMI arise extremely rarely, but if problems arise, they can be solved with your own efforts. The exception is if the ports fail. It will not be possible to replace the HDMI interface or re-solder the pad without professional equipment.
Note.
