How can I connect my desktop to the TV to view videos?

[MaryJ6]

I just had great help from "TheOldMan" and hope someone can help again.  My 2021 hp desktop running Windows 11 cannot connect to my Sony TV to play videos.  I have an HDMI cord between the two that worked great with the old Dell desktop, but since I changed to the HP it cannot connect so that I can have a duplicate monitor.  I have tried the system settings and indicated a duplicate view, but no luck.  The TV says that there is no signal.  I have a VGA connection to the computer monitor and HDMI to the TV.  Do you think that it could be it does not accept the HDMI connection to the TV?  Is there a setting to adjust for this connection?  I have done some troubleshooting with the network adaptar settings, but hasn't helped.

[Hawks_Eye · Accepted solution]

Hi @MaryJ6 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Thanks for sharing the details, and I’m really sorry you’re facing this issue—it’s understandably frustrating when your setup worked perfectly before and now the TV shows “No Signal.” 

Let’s walk through a few steps to help you get your HP desktop and Sony TV working together smoothly.

 

Step-by-Step Fixes for HDMI Connection Issues

 

1. Check HDMI Port and Cable

• Make sure the HDMI cable is securely connected to both the desktop and the TV.
• Try switching to a different HDMI port on the TV.
• If possible, test with another HDMI cable to rule out damage.

 

2. Select the Correct Input on the TV

• Use your TV remote to switch to the correct HDMI input (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2).
• Wait a few seconds after switching inputs to allow the signal to sync.

 

3. Force Display Detection in Windows

• Press Windows + P and select Duplicate or Extend.
• If nothing appears, right-click on the desktop → Display settings → Scroll down and click Detect under “Multiple displays.”

 

4. Update Graphics Drivers

• Open Device Manager → Expand Display adapters.
• Right-click your graphics card → Update driver → Search automatically for drivers.
• Alternatively, visit the HP support page for your desktop to download the latest graphics driver:
  HP PCs - Troubleshooting HDMI Display and Sound Issues

 

5. Check BIOS Settings

• Restart your desktop and press F10 repeatedly to enter BIOS.
• Look for any settings related to video output or integrated graphics and ensure they’re enabled.

 

6. Avoid VGA and HDMI Simultaneously

• Some systems may not support simultaneous output through VGA and HDMI.
• Try disconnecting the VGA monitor and restarting the PC with only the HDMI cable connected to the TV.

 

7. Try a Clean Boot

• Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
• Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.
• Go to the Startup tab → Open Task Manager → Disable all startup items.
• Restart your PC and test the HDMI connection.

If the issue persists, let me know what you see in the display settings or if the TV ever briefly flashes a signal. I’ll help you dig deeper until it’s resolved.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[MaryJ6]

My friends at the HP forum came through again for me!!! 

Hawks_Eye:  I had already checked many of the solutions you listed to do.  When I saw # 6 that stated some systems don't like you using both VGA and HDMI connections for duplicate monitors.  As the HP only has one HDMI port I thought there was no way it was going to work.  It dawned on me that I had on hand an HDMI splitter that I had used for connecting two TVs.   I hooked it up and the connection worked perfectly.  With the old Dell computer set up it had worked with VGA and HDMI connected to TV and computer.  Thank you for your help in jogging my memory about the splitter I already had.

[Hawks_Eye]

That’s a fantastic outcome—and a great example of how a little tech intuition and teamwork can go a long way. 

It’s easy to overlook something like an HDMI splitter when troubleshooting, but clearly your experience made it through. 

I’m glad the connection worked out smoothly and that you’re now able to enjoy your videos on the big screen.

If you ever want help optimizing display settings, audio routing, or even exploring wireless casting options, I’m here for it. You’ve got a solid setup now—enjoy it!

Thanks again for your confirmation, and we wish you an amazing day ahead! 😊

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye