The monitor won't show anything through the display port unless another signal is active.
The monitor won't show anything through the display port unless another signal is active.
Only freesync (or adaptive sync) is currently available, and the same configuration is being sent to both screens except for the refresh rate. The laptop’s internal display runs at 144Hz with adaptive sync, while the external monitor operates at 75Hz. The adapter claims support up to 8K60 resolution, but the dock supports only 4K if memory allows. Additional note: freesync and 75Hz functionality are limited to the display port connection, which likely explains why the NVCP allowed G-Sync activation even though it wasn’t officially supported—this feature was enabled via the monitor connection rather than the dock.
Using Fn+F9 opens the same menu as pressing Windows key + P, while Fn+F6 doesn’t affect the external screen even when the laptop is off. The monitor appears to stay in standby mode without turning on, and when connected via Thunderbolt, it shows a no signal message. I’ve noticed that with an external monitor connected through Thunderbolt, the internal graphics card isn’t detected, unlike with Windows. Checking the NVCP revealed that the display is linked via a DisplayPort Alt Mode connection, which lacks HDCP notification. When plugged in through HDMI, the internal display briefly freezes on refresh rate changes but resumes normally once the signal is detected. I’m planning to try a different monitor soon, possibly with conversion tech, to determine if the problem lies with the port or the connection method.
Upgrading to a new monitor can be beneficial, but proceed carefully to avoid repeating the same problems. Consider choosing the Nvidia GPU setting in PhysX instead of the default option. I've noticed Nvidia's graphics can behave unpredictably in the settings, making it hard to determine what will work best.
I understand what needs to happen if things go wrong. I’ll make sure the laptop is set to full gaming mode, keep an external screen connected, and avoid upgrading the monitor unless I can confirm the display works with the current dock or adapter. I won’t start a new monitor until I finish most of my Amazon payments and sort through the mess on my desk. This update will take a few weeks because I need to test the cables first.
I had already attempted this in the previous batch of tests by adjusting the laptops internal display to 60Hz before connecting the external display (which Windows sets to 60Hz) and still experienced the unpowered display effect. Even when another active source was connected, I was sure the internal display was set at 144Hz with the monitor defaulted to 60Hz. I believe the main factor that needs to be eliminated is related to the monitor itself—either by avoiding the displayport connection or by testing on its HDMI port or another device (I won’t use the VGA port due to existing issues).
Update on this situation—I just discovered it performs the same function over HDMI when the laptop is off, specifically when connected directly via the laptop’s HDMI port (not through Thunderbolt). As soon as I press the power button, the display turns on to show a no-signal message and enters standby mode (if any), remaining inactive until the laptop boots into Windows, after which it functions normally. This makes me wonder if something isn’t being sent to the display to fully wake it up, or if the display itself is being selective. I’ll need to conduct further testing on that aspect since I have a compatible display device available. I also reviewed a video from Techyescity about hidden power settings and might look into those to see if any previously mentioned options were simply hidden.
I’ve chosen to stop attempting to synchronize this monitor with the laptop. The HDMI connection is now problematic—especially when fullscreen games are used. Even though everything is configured at 1080p60, the display frequently loses sync and displays a signal loss message before the image resumes with further complications. I’ve tried various fixes but haven’t succeeded. Now I plan to use this monitor as a backup for another setup, hoping it will work better with the laptop.