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my monitor is telling me my hdmi is inactive and i cant fix it

1 REPLY 1
HP Recommended

Hi @JJ_KUJIN 

 

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

 

Thanks for reaching out — I know how frustrating it is when your HP monitor won’t recognize an HDMI connection, especially after trying a reset. Let’s walk through a targeted, step-by-step approach to get your monitor working again.


 

If your HP monitor says “HDMI Inactive”, it usually means the signal isn't being received properly — either due to the cable, source device (like your PC/laptop), or a monitor input issue.

 

Let’s troubleshoot each possibility in a focused way.


 

Step-by-Step Fixes for “HDMI Inactive” on HP Monitor

1. Check the Basics

Make sure both the monitor and computer/laptop are powered ON.

Use the correct HDMI port (some monitors have multiple inputs — check if you're plugged into the correct one).

Tap the monitor’s Input/Source button to manually switch to HDMI (often labeled as “Source” or a square with an arrow).


 

2. Try a Different HDMI Cable

Cables go bad more often than you'd think.

Swap with a different HDMI cable (preferably one you know works from another device like a TV or gaming console).


 

3. Test the Monitor with Another Device

Plug the monitor into a different HDMI source (e.g., laptop, game console, streaming device).

If it works with another device, the problem is likely your computer’s HDMI output.


 

4. Test Your Computer with Another Monitor

Try plugging your computer into a different monitor or TV.

If no HDMI signal is detected there either, your computer's HDMI port or drivers might be the issue.


 

5. Reset Display Settings on PC (if it's connected but black screen)

Sometimes the PC is outputting to the wrong display.

On Windows 10/11:

Press Windows + P

Tap P repeatedly to toggle through:

PC screen only

Duplicate

Extend

Second screen only

Press Enter after selecting one

This forces your computer to detect and switch displays.


 

6. Update/Reinstall Display Drivers

Connect to a different display (if needed).

Go to Device Manager > Display adapters

Right-click your GPU and select Update driver

Or uninstall it and reboot — Windows will reinstall a clean driver.


 

Would you like to tell me your monitor model number so I can check for specific firmware or support options for that unit?

 

 

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

 

I am an HP Employee.
† The opinions expressed above are the personal opinions of the authors, not of HP. By using this site, you accept the <a href="https://www8.hp.com/us/en/terms-of-use.html" class="udrlinesmall">Terms of Use</a> and <a href="/t5/custom/page/page-id/hp.rulespage" class="udrlinesmall"> Rules of Participation</a>.