A no signal on first boot error means that your computer display remains black and lifeless when trying to power up the machine. It’s a critical error, because without a display, the computer is essentially unusable, and it’s quite a common issue that people run into when building their own machines. There are several possible causes, like faulty cables or internal component issues.
This guide looks at how to fix a black screen when booting up your computer.
Contents
Fix 1. Check Cables and Connections
Some of the most common causes for the no signal on first boot issue include faulty cables and ports, or simply cables that aren’t plugged into the right ports. You might have your HDMI cable attached to the motherboard instead of the graphics card, for example, or maybe you made some other mistake when first assembling and plugging everything in.
Step 1. With the PC powered down and unplugged, check over all important cables and connections.
Step 2. Verify that the input source for your monitor matches the cable connected to your computer.
Step 3. Inspect cables and ports for any signs of damage, and try alternate cables/ports, where possible.
Fix 2. Power Cycle
Another quick fix you can try is to simply power cycle the device. This won’t always work but is worth trying before attempting any more technical solutions, as it can sometimes be enough to resolve minor bugs or issues that could be causing the black screen when booting up.
Step 1. Turn off the PC.
Step 2. If it has a power switch, use that to ensure all power is off and the device is not in any kind of “Sleep” or “Stand-by” mode.
Step 3. Unplug the power cord and wait at least 30 seconds.
Step 4. Plug the computer back in and try powering up again.
Fix 3. Disconnect Unnecessary Peripherals
If you have lots of additional peripherals and accessories plugged into your computer, it may simply be overloaded, with too many resources being used simultaneously, causing the no signal issue. You can resolve this by disconnecting peripherals you don’t need before starting your computer.
Fix 4. Internal Cleaning and Reassembly
In some cases, even a little dust or dirt inside the computer on core components – like the graphics card – could cause the black screen. Opening the computer up and cleaning or reassembling some of those components may be the only way to solve the problem. Remember to exercise caution when handling internal components, and if you’re unsure about anything, get a qualified technician to help.
Step 1. Open the computer to access the internal parts.
Step 2. Remove RAM sticks and clean the contacts if you see any dust or dirt, before reseating them.
Step 3. Unclip the graphics card and check it for dust before reattaching it correctly.
Fix 5. CMOS Reset
Resetting the Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) on your computer’s motherboard may also work to reset and resolve any BIOS issues that are causing the problem.
Step 1. If your PC has a reset or clear CMOS button, simply power down the computer and press that button, then try powering up.
Step 2. If you don’t have a visible reset button, make sure the computer’s power cable is unplugged before opening the PC to access the motherboard. You can then temporarily remove the circular CMOS battery and put it back in after 30 seconds to a minute to reset the system.
