HDMI No Signal PC

Step-by-step checks before you replace parts

Reset the graphics driver when HDMI has no signal

A hung display driver can leave HDMI outputting no signal while the PC still runs. Microsoft documents a keyboard shortcut to reset the graphics driver, then Safe Mode steps if needed.

First step: Press Windows + Ctrl + Shift + B once, then wait up to 10 seconds for a beep or flicker.

Steps

  1. Reset the graphics driver

    Win+Ctrl+Shift+B. If the image returns, update graphics drivers later via Windows Update or your OEM — do not download random “driver pack” sites.

    Keyboard diagram highlighting Windows, Ctrl, Shift, and B keys with a red box
    Win+Ctrl+Shift+B requests a graphics driver reset.

  2. Hard power-off if still dark

    Hold the case power button ~10 seconds until the PC powers off. Unsaved work may be lost. Power on again and retest HDMI.

  3. Enter Safe Mode to manage the display adapter

    From a working screen: Settings → System → Recovery → Advanced startup → Restart now → Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart. Press 5 or F5 for Safe Mode with Networking so Device Manager can download a driver. Press 4 or F4 only to roll back a driver already stored on the PC. Then open Device Manager → Display adapters → update or roll back. Use Windows Update or the PC/GPU maker, not a third-party driver pack. Microsoft’s blank-screen article uses F5 for this path.

  4. If no screen works at all

    Hold the power button for about 10 seconds. Power on, and hold the button again when the Windows logo appears. Repeat until Recovery opens — Microsoft’s blank-screen guidance says this usually takes two or three forced shutdowns. Choose Troubleshoot → Advanced options → Startup Settings → Restart, then 5 or F5. Also verify the GPU port and BIOS visibility.

What to do next

Beep/flicker and image returns Driver was stuck — schedule a proper driver update from Windows Update/OEM.
No change Continue hardware path: cable, no display.

FAQ

Is Win+Ctrl+Shift+B safe?

It resets the graphics driver. You may hear a beep; it does not reinstall Windows.

Should I install drivers from third-party pack sites?

No. Use Windows Update or the GPU/PC maker’s support site only.

Official sources

Independent DIY troubleshooting. Prefer Microsoft and OEM support articles for model-specific steps. We do not sell one-click fix tools or host driver packs.