How to fix DisplayPort to HDMI adapter not working

A monitor will generally have three types of ports; HDMI, DVI, and VGA. Laptops on the other hand don’t’ always have one of these ports. In fact, some newer models may have a USB-C port that is the display port. MacBooks, in particular, have dropped their thunderbolt ports in favor of USB-C ports.

With systems that do not have one of the three ports you’ll find on a monitor, users have to buy adapters to connect their displays. The adapters are cheap or expensive, depending on the brand you get but in most cases, simple knock-offs will work. 

DisplayPort to HDMI adapter not working

A DisplayPort adapter is generally plug & play. This goes for most adapters but if you have an adapter that converts a DisplayPort into several different port types e.g., HDMI, VGA, DVI, etc, you may need to turn it on if there’s an On switch. If not, then it’s going to work as soon as you connect it to your device(s).

If you’re using a DisplayPort to HDMI adapter, and it isn’t working, try the fixes below.

1. Disconnect and reconnect

The HDMI signal may not have been detected when you connected the cables to the adapter. In this case, follow these steps.

1. Disconnect all cables from the adapter i.e., the adapter should not be connected to your computer or monitor.
2. Connect the HDMI cable to the monitor and then to the adapter.
3. Connect the adapter to your computer.
4. If you’re on Windows 10, press Win+P.
5. Select the Extend option.

2. Select HDMI input source

An adapter may not be detected by the monitor or screen. In this case, you will have to manually select the HDMI input source. This is done from the monitor’s settings panel.

1. Look for buttons on the bezel or side of the monitor and press the menu button.
2. Select the input source menu.
3. Select HDMI as an input source.

3. Check adapter for compatibility 

DisplayPort and HDMI are not compatible with each other and this extends beyond just the shape and size of the port. Both ports have their own technology do the adapter you’re using needs to be able to convert the signal from a DisplayPort to an HDMI port.

This is where a generic adapter may fail so make sure your adapter is able to convert the signal.

4. Disconnect other cables

If your monitor has other input cables connected to it, remove them. The monitor may be getting several input signals and unable to display anything. Remove all cables that connect to ports that aren’t going to be used.

Make sure the adapter is securely connected to the HDMI port.

5. Power cycle everything

With signals, it’s not always clear what is blocking them but a power cycle can help get the adapter working.

1. Turn your computer off.
2. Turn your monitor off.
3. Unplug your computer and your monitor.
4. Wait a few minutes.
5. Plug the monitor and system back in. 
6. Turn your system on and connect it to the monitor via the adapter.

Conclusion

DisplayPorts are somewhat new and still mostly found on Apple’s computers. Trouble with DisplayPort to HDMI adapters isn’t uncommon but you’ll find that in most cases, a power cycle will fix the problem.

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Fatima Wahab

Fatima has been writing for AddictiveTips for six years. She began as a junior writer and has been working as the Editor in Chief since 2014. Fatima gets an adrenaline rush from figuring out how technology works, and how to manipulate it. A well-designed app, something that solves a common everyday problem and looks

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