MSI has a lineup of computer monitors with generally mixed reviews. One of the more common problems users report seeing is their MSI monitor not turning on. Here’s how to fix it.
If you discover your MSI monitor not turning on, first confirm the monitor is actually set to ‘on’ and check the power and display cable connections. If the issue persists, ensure monitor is set to correct input and lower the display resolution. As a final measure, perform a factory reset.
Additional causes include PC related issues. First, test monitor with another device to confirm that the issue is PC related. Then update graphics driver and BIOS and ensure display cable is properly plugged into graphic card. Finally, reinsert RAM sticks and reset CMOS/BIOS.
Continue reading for further step-by-step instructions to get your monitor back up and running!
We’ll start with the easier more obvious fixes, and work our way to some move involved troubleshooting steps.
Troubleshooting The Monitor
Step 1: Confirm Monitor Is ‘Actually’ Turned ON
You go to turn on your computer and all you see is a black monitor screen. Now what?
First, before considering more involved fixes make sure the monitor is actually turned ON.
Yes, I know. This sounds obvious. But since you typically only turn your monitor ON once and rarely need to again, this is a common mistake.
The ON button will be located on the front, bottom, or side panel of your monitor frame. It is typically on the right hand side. Set the monitor to ON.
Step 2: Check Power Cable Connection
Next, let’s make sure that the power cable is firmly connected on both ends.
It is possible that the power cord is not securely inserted into the power socket.
Check the connection on the back of your monitor and the power outlet on the wall. Be sure to also examine your power cord for any obvious damage.
Step 3: Check Display Cable Connection
Ok. The power is turned on and the power cable is secure. But still, no luck. Let’s stick on the cable theme.
You must also make sure there is a secure connection made with your display cable.
Common display cables include HDMI, DisplayPort (DP), VGA and DVI. A number of different issues, including the no signal error, can be caused even if the connection is slightly broken on either end.
Do you see that tiny space you see in the image below between the HDMI and the HDMI port in my laptop? You guessed it – that was enough to result in a black monitor screen.
Try disconnecting and reconnecting the cable. If you are using a VGA or DVI cable, tighten the screws all the way to prevent future issues.
Step 4: Set Monitor To The Correct Input
Let’s also make sure your monitor is set to the correct Input.
In order to do this, you need to first know what kind of input cable you are using.
As mentioned, the most common display cables include HDMI, DisplayPort (DP), DVI and VGA. Identify which cord you have using the image below.
Once you have identified the correct display cable, find the Input button on your monitor. The Input button can be found on the front, bottom, or side panel of your monitor frame.
Adjust the input options until you identify the input that matches your display cable.
Step 5: Lower Display Resolution
MSI monitors have a wide range of possible display resolutions that it can relay back to your computer.
It is possible that your computer’s graphic card is currently set on a display resolution that is higher than what your monitor can handle.
To fix this, we will need to first reboot your computer using Safe Mode.
While in Safe Mode, your computer will automatically use a lower display resolution than normal use. This will allow you the opportunity to go into your computer’s resolution settings and select a lower standard display resolution.
Unsure what resolution your monitor can support? You have two options:
- Locate your MSI model number on the back of your monitor and find the max resolution in the MSI monitor user manual lookup.
- Use some good old fashion some trial-and-error. Incrementally increase your resolution. Wait approximately 30 seconds between each update and see whether the monitor remains on.
Step 6: Factory Reset Monitor
Sometimes resetting your monitor to its factory settings is enough to get it back up and running.
To factory reset your monitor first identify your MSI model on the back of the monitor.
Next, enter your model number into the MSI monitor user manual lookup and follow the manual reset instructions.
Step 7: Test Monitor With Another Device
We are now at the end of the most common fixes IF your monitor is the source of the problem.
To confirm that your monitor is the issue, try using your monitor with another device. This can be another computer, laptop, game console, etc.
If your monitor display works, then you know your monitor is working properly and your hardware is the culprit.
Troubleshooting The PC
You have now confirmed that your monitor works just fine with another device. What now? The issue may be PC related.
First, a few disclaimers. Steps 10 and 11 below require you to open and manipulate your laptop or desktop computer.
If your hardware is company property, it is best to leave these steps to your company’s IT Team.
If your hardware is personally owned, you may still wish to bring it in to a local computer repair shop.
However, if you do plan to proceed make sure you have done proper research. At a minimum you should know how to properly ground yourself to avoid destroying your computer with electrostatic charge.
Step 8: Update Graphics Driver And BIOS Operating Version
If your PC is in fact the problem, your graphics driver and/or your operating BIOS version may be outdated.
Check to make sure you have the latest graphics driver and BIOS updates by following the links below.
But my MSI monitor won’t turn on, how can I check for updates?
If you are using a docked laptop then you have nothing to worry about. If however, you are using a desktop computer, you’ll need to borrow a different monitor to make the update.
- Instructions on how to update graphics device for Windows.
- Instructions on how to update BIOS for Windows.
Step 9: Ensure Display Cable Is Plugged Into The Graphic Card And Not The Motherboard
Nearly all desktop PC’s have an on-board graphics unit with corresponding connections on the back of your computer.
If this applies to you, be sure that your monitor cable is connected directly into the graphic card and NOT the motherboard.
Often times with a desktop PC, this simple fix is all that is required.
Step 10: Remove, Reorder, And Reinsert Your RAM Sticks
Your issue may be occurring because your RAM (Random Access Memory) sticks are not making a proper connection.
One way this issue can manifest is by not delivering power to your mouse and keyboard.
Therefore, if your mouse and keyboard are not working, poor RAM stick connection is likely the cause.
To fix this, first make sure your computer is powered OFF and the power cord is removed from the outlet.
Next, properly ground yourself and open your PC unit. Then fully remove each of your RAM sticks.
Finally reorder the sicks and reinsert them back into their respective RAM seats.
Step 11: Reset CMOS/BIOS
CMOS stands for Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor.
The CMOS battery in your laptop or computer powers the BIOS firmware. BIOS stands for “Basic Input/Output System” and it manages the essential functions of your computer.
Resetting your BIOS sets it back to its previous configurations. This can often fix a lot of different issues.
Once again make sure your computer is powered OFF, the power cord is removed, and you are properly grounded.
Next, remove the CMOS battery from the motherboard.
Hold down the power button to drain all excess remaining power.
After about a minute, reinsert the CMOS battery back into your PC.
Finally, reboot your computer and check to see if your display is working.
Conclusion
If your MSI monitor won’t turn on, no need to worry. Follow these 11 troubleshooting steps to get your MSI monitor turned back on today:
- Confirm monitor is ‘actually’ ON
- Check power cable connection
- Check display cable connection
- Set monitor to correct Input
- Lower display resolution
- Factory reset monitor
- Test monitor with another device
- Update graphics driver and BIOS
- Ensure display cable is plugged into graphic card
- Reinsert RAM sticks
- Reset CMOS/BIOS
If you’ve tried all of these fixes, and you’re still having issues, you can contact MSI Customer Service at 1-888-447-6564 or submit a formal Monitor Technical Support request
You can also use your model number to check the status of your MSI warranty.
Chelsea Ashbrook is a Senior Manager of Corporate Digital Experience at Genentech. Chelsea received her B.A. from the University of Connecticut and has spent the last 11 years working in the technology field.
