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Question

Dell xps laptop will NOT connect to TV

Oct 13, 2012 11:29PM PDT

I have seen this thread here
http://forums.cnet.com/7723-13974_102-543610/unable-to-mirror-dell-xps-15z-s-display-on-a-hd-tv/

but this still doesnt sort out my problem. Its incredibly annoying (about to throw my laptop out of the window).

I connected my old laptop via HDMI cable to my tv, and the screen appeared NO PROBLEM!

The new dell laptop has two graphics cards (intel and nvidia) and I followed the steps above in the thread but to no avail.
It will not extend, duplicate or project to the TV. I think the two graphics cards are conflicting each other. Any ideas how I can use the HDMI port on my laptop as it was intended, to connect to my BLOODY TV!?

Like I Said the set up works for my old laptop so its definitely an issue with the settings on the new one.

Very much looking forward to a response! Thank you!

Discussion is locked

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Clarification Request
What proves the HDMI port works?
Oct 14, 2012 3:18AM PDT

Maybe the port is indeed dead?

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the computer recognises it when its plugged in
Oct 14, 2012 6:40AM PDT

The computer recognises the TV - it comes up as a display.

Also, when I first plugged in the laptop 4/5 months ago it did flicker my desktop for a moment and that
was it.

How would I know if the HDMI port is dead?! The laptop is only 7 months old and this seems to be a common problem with Dell XPS laptops and their graphic card arrangement

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Recognition is only part of "working."
Oct 14, 2012 6:45AM PDT

Keep in mind the HDMI includes HDCP and you see consumers screaming about connections that should work but don't. But back to your question.

You'll have to try it on another display and then call it dead and arrange for repair.

About your comment about a common problem, I see it too but not limited to Dell. It's a shame HDCP is in HDMI but that's the committees for you.
Bob

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not sure what that means
Oct 14, 2012 9:01PM PDT

Sorry I am not the sharpest when it comes to IT on this level!

I am not suer another display would help if its a software / graphics
card conflict.

Like I said it worked briefly (it flashed my screen on the TV once) but seemed to be confused and eventually just went back to my monitor.

When I plug the HDMI cord into the socket on my laptop for first time, my laptop recognises it, and changes
the screen output to HALF of an extended set up (i.e. I dont see my icons start menu as its all on the "other"
screen - i think the OTHER graphics card).
That would suggest HDMI port works?

Anyway I can test HDMI port works another way? Or take it to an IT shop as ask them to help!?

Thanks

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" it worked briefly (it flashed my screen on the TV once) "
Oct 15, 2012 1:50AM PDT

" it worked briefly (it flashed my screen on the TV once) " is typical when, well we are guessing here that the HDCP handshake failed. We have to guess because the cost to diagnose that is into the few thousands with cables and displays being much cheaper we try another cable and display first.

And no to your question. It does not prove the port works. Only by seeing the display on the HDMI connected display proves the system works.

This is why this is not possible to diagnose with just one HDMI source and display.
Bob