Troubleshooting GPU No Display Issue with Spinning Fans on Windows PC

Key Notes

  • Check all connections thoroughly.
  • Consider replacing old cables.
  • Use integrated graphics for diagnosis.

How to Troubleshoot When Your GPU Shows No Display But the Fan Is Spinning

If your GPU is powered but not displaying any video on the monitor, you may be facing a frustrating situation. This guide will walk you through various troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the issue where your graphics card’s fan is functioning but no output is visible on your display.

Fix GPU No Display but Fan Spinning on Windows PC

If the display remains unresponsive while the GPU fan spins on your Windows 10/11 PC, follow the solutions below:

  1. Disconnect all peripherals and cables, and reconnect your monitor
  2. Replace the VGA Cable
  3. Disconnect and reconnect the GPU Power Cable
  4. Remove or replace the CMOS Battery
  5. Uninstall the display driver
  6. Run the system using the integrated GPU

Let’s dive into each solution.

Step 1: Disconnect All Peripherals and Cables

Start by disconnecting all peripherals such as webcams, microphones, and other devices. Following that, disconnect the power cable and video cable from the monitor and the computer. After about 30 seconds, reconnect all cables. This process lets the capacitors discharge and might rectify any minor issues with the connection.

Step 2: Replace the VGA Cable

If the previous step doesn’t work, inspect your VGA cable for any damage. Replacing it is a straightforward fix since they are relatively inexpensive. Make sure to connect it firmly to the monitor and PC.

Step 3: Disconnect and Reconnect the GPU Power Cable

Inspect the GPU power cables. If you notice them connected slightly loose, unplug them and reconnect securely. A fresh connection can sometimes eliminate power delivery issues.

Step 4: Remove or Replace the CMOS Battery

The CMOS battery holds the BIOS settings for your PC. If the system is having constant issues, try removing it for a short duration to reset the BIOS settings. If this doesn’t work, consider replacing the live battery.

Step 5: Uninstall the Display Driver

To uninstall the display driver, remove the GPU from your PC and connect the monitor directly to the motherboard. Then boot the system to access Windows. Here are the detailed steps:

  1. Press Win + X and open Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section.
  3. Right-click the display driver (Intel, AMD, etc.) and select “Uninstall device.”
  4. Check the “Delete the driver software for this device” option.
  5. Click “Uninstall” to remove the driver.
  6. After uninstallation, turn off the PC, reinsert the GPU, and ensure a secure connection.
  7. Power the device back on.

Step 6: Run the System Using the Integrated GPU

If all else fails, consider removing the dedicated GPU and using integrated graphics. This allows you to determine if there’s an issue with the dedicated GPU or if the problem lies elsewhere.

Summary

Troubleshooting GPU display issues often requires a systematic approach. Be sure to check all connections, replace faulty cables, and adjust BIOS settings via the CMOS battery. Finally, if the issue persists, assess hardware functionality through integrated graphics.

Conclusion

When facing GPU display issues with the fan still spinning, patience and methodical troubleshooting are essential. Following the outlined steps can guide you through resolving the issue efficiently. If after all attempts the display problem continues, consider seeking professional assistance or contacting the manufacturer for further diagnosis.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What Should I Do if My GPU Fans are Spinning but the System is Silent?

Check the power connections and ensure that the GPU is properly seated in the PCIe slot. Alternatively, inspect the motherboard’s functionality to rule out potential issues.