My HP spectre will only recognize one of two external monitors. Both are connected by USB C cables

[KevinSKay]

My HP spectre will only recognize one of two external monitors.  Both are connected by USB C cables.  I have updated my BIOS and drivers

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @KevinSKay 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

It sounds like your HP Spectre x360 Laptop - 15-eb0043dx is having trouble recognizing both external monitors through USB-C, even after updating the BIOS and drivers.

Here are some steps to troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue:

 

1. Confirm Hardware Compatibility

Check USB-C Specifications:

Verify that your laptop supports multiple external displays via USB-C. Some devices have limitations on daisy-chaining or handling two independent monitors through USB-C.

Review HP's official documentation for your laptop model to confirm dual external monitor support.

Monitor Compatibility:

Ensure both monitors support USB-C video input (not just USB-C for power or data).

 

2. Test Ports and Cables

Switch Ports:

If your laptop has multiple USB-C ports, try connecting each monitor to a different port.

Cable Check:

Test with known working USB-C cables that support video output (DisplayPort Alt Mode).

 

3. Adjust Display Settings

Windows Settings:

Right-click the desktop and select Display settings.

Scroll down to Multiple displays and click Detect to manually detect the second monitor.

Refresh Rate and Resolution:

Configure each monitor's resolution and refresh rate under Advanced Display Settings to ensure compatibility.

 

4. Update Drivers and Software

Graphics Driver:

Even though you've already updated your drivers, it’s worth specifically reinstalling or updating the GPU driver:

For NVIDIA: Download the latest driver from NVIDIA's website.

For Intel Integrated Graphics: Visit Intel's website.

HP Support Assistant:

Run the HP Support Assistant to check for additional updates or fixes specific to your laptop.

 

5. Test with a Dock or Hub

External Docking Station:

If the USB-C ports aren’t reliably handling two monitors, try using a USB-C docking station designed to support multiple external displays. This can bypass potential port or bandwidth limitations.

 

6. Check BIOS Settings

Restart your laptop and enter the BIOS (usually by pressing Esc or F10 during startup).

Check for any display-related settings, especially options related to USB-C functionality or external monitors.

Ensure all necessary ports are enabled.

 

7. Perform Diagnostics

Hardware Diagnostic Tools:

Run HP’s built-in diagnostics by pressing Esc or F2 during startup to ensure the USB-C ports are functioning correctly.

 

8. Test on Another Device

Connect both monitors to another laptop or computer to verify that the issue isn’t with the monitors themselves.

If this solution hits the spot, please come back and click "Accepted Solution" to help others find the answer. And if you'd like to say thanks, select "Yes" on the bottom left of the public post, as that would make our day! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye