The system responds with approval, yet there is no display visible.
The system responds with approval, yet there is no display visible.
I built a small backup PC a few years ago, used it occasionally for repairs or upgrades of the main system and to store trip photos. I wanted to check it out later but couldn’t find a screen at any point. The POST beep sounded fine, but there was no MB logo, no login, and I couldn’t raise the BIOS to see if video was set to onboard or card—neither worked. I cleared the CMOS. Here are the main specs:
MB - Gigabyte ATX GA-H81M-DS2
CPU - Intel Pentium 4, 1.8Ghz + matching fan
GPU - Gygabyte GeForce GT 710
PSU - Codegen 600w
RAM - 2 x 4gb Corsair
HDD x 2 - WD Blue 1TB + Seagate 500GB
Case - DEEPCOOL ATX
OS - Windows 10
I searched forums and online resources extensively. Any assistance would be appreciated.
You attempted to use the monitor on your main system to verify its functionality. Did you just reconnect everything for this setup so it can be used? Are you certain you didn’t connect the monitor to the motherboard video output instead of the graphics card video output? Since the Pentium 4 lacks integrated graphics, you must link the monitor to the graphics card’s video output or you won’t receive a signal.
It might also help to review the menu options on the monitor itself, as it could fail to display anything if the input type isn’t correctly set to match what your video card provides.
Check the cables at both ends for any damage or bent pins, and try using a different cable if needed.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, consider that your low-quality Codegen power supply might be faulty. You could also test the graphics card on another machine to confirm it works properly. Lastly, inspect the motherboard capacitors for signs of bulging or leakage, as an old board is more likely to have this problem.
I don't remember exactly when I assembled this system, but it seems to predate the pandemic. I think the onboard graphics were probably the reason I added the card. I tested the HDMI connection, but still got no display—likely because the VGA cable wasn't used. The 23" BenQ GW2760 monitor came with its own power supply and always accepted all inputs automatically—VGA, DVI, HDMI. It works fine with just one PC at a time, though I might check the settings to be sure.
The PC was built mainly as a backup, which explains the cheaper components and minimal setup. It only ran for about six hours, so it probably wasn't used much. The graphics card is already in my main machine, so swapping shouldn't cause issues. I also have another PCIe card from when I upgraded my daughter's computer, which still functions, so I'll try that first before anything else.
I thought I was making a small error—really didn’t want to rearrange things because moving everything to the kitchen would require good lighting and more space.
It doesn't appear there were any basic errors, though it will likely require some effort to resolve.
It was just a minor mistake—connected the VGA cable from the KVM switch to the PC instead of using the direct monitor-to-PC VGA connection. I did this to keep the digital DVI input working with the newer main PC, and I manually turned the PCs on and off when needed. The mouse and keyboard still worked through the KVM. Problem fixed? Probably not for me! W10 OS is gone from the boot drive! At least now I can view the BIOS and see if the boot sequence has changed.
Of course. In the future, it would be really useful to understand that extra hardware, like a KVM switch, is included. That way, we'd have a clear picture.
Yeah, I was wrong about the KVM. The cable was all messy with dust and webs, so I grabbed the clean one from the desk instead. I might switch to a 2-port DVI KVM switch once the PC works. An HDMI option would cost an extra $60 plus another splitter for the TV. I’m retired now—better watch the pennies a bit more.
Darkbreeze,
The blue info screen at startup indicated the OS required repair and mentioned needing an installation media. I couldn’t locate my original drive, so I created a new one on USB and connected it. I’m unsure if it booted from that setup, but I didn’t receive any repair prompts or instructions—just a low-resolution start-up. After shutting down, removing the USB, and restarting, everything worked again with the resolution returning to 1080p.
That’s resolved, but now I need to address the failed solar pump in the dam, which seems beyond even my electrician’s expertise!
Thanks for your help.