You’re trying to connect your Dell® Inspiron laptop to an external display, but the HDMI port doesn’t seem to work—no image, no sound, just a blank screen. The good news? You may not need a new computer.
At Asurion, we fix all kinds of hardware problems every day—from damaged ports to broken screens. If your Dell laptop's HDMI port isn’t working, here are a few steps you can try. If you need a hand along the way, we’re here for you—just bring it to your nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion store for a free diagnostic.
Check the cable and port
Start with the basics:
- Try a different HDMI cable if you have one.
- Test the same cable with another device (like a game console or Blu-ray player).
- Plug the cable into a different port on your TV or monitor.
If other devices work fine with the same cable, your HDMI port might be the problem.
Restart and reconnect in the right order
Sometimes HDMI handshake issues happen when the connection isn't made in the right sequence.
- Turn off both your laptop and the TV or monitor.
- Connect the HDMI cable to both.
- Power on the external display first, then your Dell Inspiron.
If your laptop supports function key toggling, press Fn + F8 (or whichever key has the display icon) to switch displays.
Update your drivers
Outdated display drivers can cause HDMI problems.
- Open Device Manager.
- Expand Display adapters.
- Right-click your graphics driver and choose Update driver.
You can also go to Dell’s support site and search by your laptop model to download the latest video drivers.
Check for port damage
Use a flashlight to inspect the HDMI port:
- Look for bent or missing pins.
- Gently insert the cable—does it feel loose or unstable?
- Try wiggling the cable slightly. If the display flickers, the port may have a loose connection.
If it looks damaged, it’s best to bring it to a Dell repair expert.
More helpful Dell computer tips from our team:
- How to stop your Dell laptop from overheating
- How to check your Dell laptop battery health
- How to take a screenshot on a Dell laptop
FAQ
Why is my Dell laptop not detecting HDMI?
This can happen due to bad cables, loose connections, outdated drivers, or display settings. Try connecting in the right order and updating your drivers.
How do I switch displays on a Dell Inspiron?
Press Fn + F8 to toggle between built-in and external displays.
Can a damaged HDMI port be repaired?
Yes, but it usually requires professional help. Visit a uBreakiFix® by Asurion store for a free diagnostic.
