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Apple Computer Repairs and Services

How to Fix External Display Issues on MacBook Pro

As a MacBook Pro user, one of the advantages of owning such a powerful device is the ability to extend your workspace with an external display. Whether you’re working from home, editing photos, or enjoying media content, connecting your MacBook Pro to an external monitor can greatly enhance your productivity and experience. However, at times, you might encounter problems such as the “external monitor not detected.”

If you’re struggling with this issue, don’t panic. There are several troubleshooting steps you can take to resolve this problem. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to fix external display issues on your MacBook Pro and ensure smooth connectivity with your external monitor.

Check Your Cable and Ports

Before diving into software-based solutions, the first thing you should do when your MacBook Pro is not detecting an external display is check the physical connection. A faulty cable or port can often be the root cause of this issue.
  • Inspect the cable: Ensure that the cable connecting your MacBook Pro to your external monitor is securely plugged in at both ends. Try using a different cable to rule out the possibility of a defective one.
  • Examine the ports: Both your MacBook Pro and monitor should have functioning ports. Clean any dust or debris from the ports to ensure a solid connection.
If you’re using an adapter, such as a USB-C to HDMI adapter, check whether it’s working properly or consider trying another one.

How to Connect a Monitor to a MacBook

Connecting your MacBook Pro to an external monitor should be a straightforward process. Here’s a simple guide on how to connect a monitor to a MacBook:
  • Shut down both devices: Power off your MacBook and the external monitor.
  • Connect the cable: Plug the cable from the external monitor into the correct port on your MacBook.
  • Turn on the monitor: Power on the monitor and check that it is set to the correct input source.
  • Power on your MacBook: Boot up your MacBook Pro.
At this point, your MacBook Pro should automatically detect the external monitor and extend the display. If the monitor isn’t detected, move on to further troubleshooting steps.

Restart Your MacBook

Sometimes, the issue might be resolved simply by restarting your MacBook Pro. Restarting refreshes the system and resolves minor software glitches that could be causing your external monitor not to show up.

To restart your MacBook, click the Apple logo in the top-left corner and select Restart. After your MacBook reboots, check if the external monitor is now detected.

Check Display Settings in macOS

If your MacBook Pro still isn’t detecting the external monitor, the issue could be related to the display settings. macOS gives you the ability to manage how your MacBook works with external displays, including the arrangement and resolution of connected monitors. To check and adjust display settings:

  • Go to System Preferences: Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner and select System Preferences.
  • Select Displays: In the System Preferences window, choose Displays.
  • Detect Displays: Hold down the Option key to reveal the “Detect Displays” button. Click it to force your MacBook to search for the connected external monitor.
  • Adjust Display Arrangement: If the monitor is detected, you can rearrange the displays to match the physical setup of your monitors.
If your external monitor is still not detected, try disconnecting and reconnecting the cable while keeping the Displays window open.

Update macOS to the Latest Version

Software compatibility issues can prevent your MacBook Pro from properly detecting an external monitor. Keeping macOS up to date ensures that you have the latest fixes and improvements, particularly for hardware compatibility. To check for updates, follow these steps:

  • Click on the Apple logo and select About This Mac.
  • Choose Software Update.
  • If an update is available, click Update Now and follow the on-screen instructions.
After the update is complete, restart your MacBook Pro and check if the external display is now working.

Reset NVRAM/PRAM

If your MacBook is still not detecting the external monitor, it might be time to reset the NVRAM (Non-Volatile Random-Access Memory) or PRAM (Parameter RAM). These settings store crucial information like display preferences and can sometimes become corrupted. Here’s how to reset NVRAM/PRAM:
  • Shut down your MacBook.
  • Turn it back on and immediately press and hold Option + Command + P + R.
  • Keep holding the keys for about 20 seconds, then release them.
  • Let your MacBook reboot, and check if the external monitor is now detected.

Check for Monitor-Specific Settings

Sometimes the issue lies with the external monitor itself. If your MacBook is not detecting the external display, it could be that the monitor is set to the wrong input source or needs configuration.
  • Input Source: Make sure that the monitor is set to the correct input source (HDMI, DisplayPort, etc.) that matches the cable connection from your MacBook.
  • Monitor Settings: Some monitors have built-in settings that can prevent them from displaying correctly when connected to a MacBook. Check the monitor’s manual for any relevant settings or troubleshooting tips.

Try a Different Monitor or MacBook

If you’ve exhausted all the previous solutions and the external monitor is still not detected, try using a different monitor with your MacBook. Alternatively, connect the current monitor to a different device to confirm whether the issue lies with the MacBook or the monitor itself.

If the problem persists only with your MacBook Pro, there may be a deeper hardware issue. In that case, contacting professional support may be necessary.

Conclusion

When your MacBook Pro external monitor isn’t working, it can be frustrating, but most issues can be resolved with simple troubleshooting. From checking the cable and ports to adjusting macOS display settings, these steps should help you get back to using your external monitor in no time.

If you’re still experiencing issues with connecting your MacBook Pro to an external monitor, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Total Mac Solutions for personalised assistance. Our team is here to help with everything from simple display fixes to more complex hardware issues.

Don’t let technical difficulties hold you back. Contact us today for expert support with your MacBook and external displays.

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