Modern monitors have a power-save mode that unexpectedly dims the display and reduces the refresh rate upon inactivity. This feature conserves energy, decreases power consumption, and curtails the carbon footprint associated with their use.
That sounds good. However, the power-save dream could quickly become a disruptive problem when you suddenly cannot escape this mode.
It doesn’t matter what key you press or what you try; nothing happens: just a black screen stuck there forever. Is there a quick solution to this problem? Yes, there is!
Keep reading to understand why your monitor randomly enters power-save mode and how to fix this annoying problem. Let’s get to it!
Why Won’t Your PC Get Out of Power Saving Mode?
Your PC won’t get out of power saving mode because the display is not receiving any input or signal from the computer. The monitor thinks it is off, and it enters power-saving mode.
Here are the two main reasons why your monitor is stuck in power saver mode:
- Updates.
Sometimes, updates to the Windows operating system or the graphics card drivers can cause malfunctions with the video drivers, causing problems in the communication between the graphics card and the monitor. - Connection Issues.
If your PC doesn’t exit power-saving mode, it might be due to a faulty connection between the monitor and the CPU. This can be caused by hardware issues like a problematic cable, but it can also be caused by software glitches that “break” the communication between the monitor and the CPU or graphics card.
Let’s see how to get your monitor out of power-saving mode.
Fixing a Monitor Stuck in Power Saver Mode
Here are the solutions to fix the monitor stuck in power saver mode:
Solution #1 Check the Connections
Check the cables connecting the computer to the monitor. They might not be properly connected. Thus, when you turn on your computer, it does not send a signal to your monitor.
You can also change the cable to a different port. Sometimes, the ports where the cables are connected might malfunction and refuse to transmit signals to the monitor.
Solution #2 Use Different Cables
Another reason your monitor is stuck in power saver mode is because the cables might be damaged. Change the cable between the monitor and the computer (display cable) and the cable that powers the monitor (power cable).
Solution #3 Hard Reboot Your PC
This is a simple solution and can save you from many headaches. Hold the power button for at least 15 seconds to completely shut off your computer. Wait a few seconds, then press the power button again to turn it back on.
Solution #4 Reset Your Graphics Driver
Sometimes, a monitor stuck in power saver mode is caused by a glitch in the graphics card software. Press “Ctrl+Shift+Win+B” to reset your graphics drivers.
If your computer has integrated graphics, open the “Device Manager”, go to “Display Adapters,” and find your integrated graphic card. Double-click on it and select “Disable device.” Then restart your computer.
If it works, reinstall the graphic drivers. If not, it might be a hardware problem. You will need to test the graphics card on another computer.
Solution #5 Load the “Last Known Good Configuration”
Boot into Safe Mode by repeatedly pressing “F8” as your computer starts. Use the arrow keys to find “Last Known Good Configuration.” Select it and press “Enter” to load it. This can resolve monitor issues caused by recent updates or app installations.
Solution #6 Connect to a Different Monitor
If your monitor is faulty, it doesn’t matter how many software solutions you try. The problem won’t be solved. You can test your computer with another monitor to see if the monitor has a hardware problem.
Solution #7 Connect the Monitor to a Different Computer
If it works, the problem is not in the monitor but probably on your graphics card or computer system. To eliminate doubt, connect your monitor to a different computer. If the problem disappears, it’s time to check your graphics card or your computer configuration.
Fix Dell Monitor Entering Power Save Mode
Your Dell Monitor enter power save mode for the following reasons:
- Software updates (drivers or OS).
- The monitor is not receiving a signal from the computer.
- The computer has entered hibernation, sleep, or shut down.
- The monitor’s power-saving settings have been activated.
- The monitor is connected to an unstable power source.
- The computer’s CPU is overheating, and its motherboard battery is drained.
The exact behavior of a monitor entering power saver mode depends on the specific model and manufacturer. Dell provides further information on this issue in this guide about how to troubleshoot multiple monitor issues. To fix this issue, follow Dell’s guide or try the solutions that we explained above.
Fix Monitor Enters Power Save Mode While Gaming
If your monitor enters power save mode while you are actively using it, it is a big issue. It is indicative of your CPU’s health. You need to fix it as soon as possible. Two likely issues that make be causing that are Outdated Drivers and/or Overheating CPU/GPU.
To fix this issue, do the following:
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Step 1. Clean your CPU & your VGA card
Sometimes, you have to remove dust that clogs the CPU fan and particles on the card port. You can use a blower to remove the dust particles.
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Step 2. Download the latest drivers for your VGA card manufacturer’s site.
ATI and NVIDIA are two of the most popular video card manufacturers.
Why Does My Monitor Say “No Signal” Entering Power-Saving Mode?
A monitor that displays a “no signal” message and enters into power-saving mode is because it is not receiving input signals from the computer. It can be caused by cables not being appropriately connected, malfunctioning, or other software/hardware issues.
To fix a monitor that enters power save mode on startup, try the solutions we have explained above: hard reboot your PC, check the connections, use different cables, reset your graphics drivers, load the last known good configuration, or try the monitor with another computer or vice versa.
Conclusion
Now you know how to get your monitor out of power-saving mode! Monitors entering power-saving mode help conserve energy, but it can be frustrating if they do so unexpectedly. It’s even more frustrating if you can’t get out of it.
You can first check the connections to get a monitor out of power-saving mode. Ensure cables are secure and undamaged, and verify that the monitor’s input source matches the computer’s output. By addressing these issues, you can prevent unwanted interruptions and enjoy a seamless user experience. But if this isn’t your monitor’s issue, try our other solutions above.
