One of the most common computer failure scenarios is also one of the most difficult to diagnose: The computer turns on, but the screen is black (or otherwise not responsive).
The core issue is simple: The monitor isn’t receiving a valid signal from your computer. That’s typically due to one of the following issues:
- The monitor is not plugged into the computer, or the connection between the computer and monitor is faulty.
- The computer’s display output is not functioning.
- The computer has more than one display output, and it’s sending the signal to a port that isn’t in use. This is typically due to a BIOS/CMOS configuration issue.
- Other computer hardware (such as RAM) isn’t properly seated or connected.
The good news — if there is good news — is that none of these issues are directly related to the storage media. If your computer turns on, but the screen doesn’t display anything, your hard drive (or solid-state drive) shouldn’t be affected. However, we still recommend a cautious approach, especially if the computer stores essential data.
Below, we’ll provide tips for diagnosing and fixing a “black screen” issue. To speak directly with a data recovery specialist, call 1-800-237-4200 or submit a case online.
“Computer Turns On, But the Screen Is Black:” Troubleshooting Tips
1. Before proceeding, take steps to protect your data.
An issue with your monitor doesn’t indicate an issue with your hard drive — but if you’ve noticed any issues with your computer prior to the failure, data loss is certainly possible.
If possible, the best practice is to create a full clone of the hard drive or solid-state drive. Follow our guide to creating clone disks with ddrescue.
You can also simply connect your storage device to a functional PC, then copy any files you need (or, if you’ve followed the best practices of data backup, you can simply restore from a backup).
Just don’t skip this step — if your data is irreplaceable, you should treat any access issue with caution. Backing up important files or cloning your storage device reduces your chance of permanent data loss.
2. Check for component/connection issues.
Start with the simple fixes:
- Make sure your display connections are secure. Try using another display cable (HDMI/DVI/etc.).
- Make sure your graphics card is properly seated in your motherboard. Remember to unplug your computer before checking motherboard connections.
- Make sure your monitor is functional. Try plugging in another device to see whether the screen turns on. If possible, try another monitor.
- Check the RAM. With the computer unplugged, unseat the RAM and check that it’s clean. Make sure it’s properly seated.
3. Reset your BIOS/UEFI.
Occasionally, a BIOS issue will prevent a display from receiving a signal. Of course, even accessing the BIOS is difficult without a display — but it’s possible.
- Turn your computer off by holding the power button for at least 10 seconds.
- Ground yourself to prevent static electricity from damaging your computer’s electronics.
- Open the case and locate the CMOS battery. This is a small battery on the motherboard; consult your motherboard’s documentation to find its exact location.
- Hold the power button for another 20 seconds or so. This discharges remaining power, which prevents the BIOS from holding onto older settings.
- Reinstall the battery and turn on the computer.
If you’re uncomfortable with the idea of opening your computer and removing components, do not attempt this process. Work with a reputable computer repair shop.
4. If the monitor starts, but turns off when Windows boots, follow these steps.
Two shortcuts may help you activate the screen:
- Try using Windows Logo Key + P to toggle between presentation or projection display mode. This may wake the screen.
- Try using the Windows logo key + Ctrl + Shift + B.
If neither of those options fixes the issue, you can restart your computer in Safe Mode. Windows Safe Mode is a diagnostic mode that starts Windows with a limited set of files and drivers. It is useful for troubleshooting problems that prevent Windows from starting normally, such as virus infections, driver conflicts, hardware problems, or slow performance.
To start Windows Safe Mode, you can either hold the Shift key while clicking Restart from the sign-in screen or through the Settings app. If you’re unable to start Safe Mode via this process, you can try these steps:
- Disconnect any unnecessary peripheral devices (USB drives, network adapters, etc.).
- Hold the power button for at least 10 seconds to turn your device off.
- Press the power button again.
- When you see the initial sign of Windows booting up (such as when some devices display the manufacturer’s logo during restart), press and hold the power button for 10 continuous seconds to power down your device.
- Press the power button again.
- Cycle the computer again: Hold the power button when Windows starts up for at least 10 seconds, then press the power button again. In total, you’ve now restarted the computer three times.
- Your PC should now start Automatic Repair.
- Select Troubleshoot, then Advanced options, then Startup Settings, then Restart.
- Your device will restart. You will now have the option to press F5 to start the device in Safe Mode.
My screen won’t turn on. How do I recover my data?
If you’re unable to restore your device via the steps above, remember: Most issues that cause a “black screen of death” won’t actually cause data loss.
If you have no indication that your hard drive or SSD is failing, a reputable computer repair shop should be able to help you restore your files. If the issue is caused by a hard drive failure, we’re here to help.
Datarecovery.com provides risk-free evaluations for all hard drives, solid-state drives, and other consumer storage devices. With real laboratories at each location, we provide a reliable resource for data recovery — and all of our services are supported by a no data, no charge guarantee.
To learn more, call 1-800-237-4200 or submit a case online.
