Optiplex 3020 Displayport

Question

Hi folks, I am trying to connect a HDMI monitor using the Displayport to HDMI cable. (Not enough space at the back of the monitor and wall to fit the VGA cable) However,  the monitor is not picking up signal. 1- I have the latest BioS A20.. there is only one option under Video which is Primary Display. 2- I have switched everything off for a minute and tried again but still the same. 3- if I connect both VGA and Displayport together then HDMI works. Any idea or pointers wi be greatly appreciated

redxps630 · Answer

some monitors need input video selection by user to choose btn vga and hdmi or DP. Are you sure your monitor is set to hdmi input?

sounds like if you connect pc to monitor via both vga and hdmi, you have video. How do you know video is from vga vs hdmi?

scotcruz · Answer

Thanks, I am using an led TV as a monitor so using the source button to move from VGA to HDMI

redxps630 · Answer

Seems to be an known issue with possible solution. Do you have multi display enabled in BIOS? “In the BIOS, under the Video category, Multi-Display will be an option. THe box should be checked to Enable Multi-Display.”

<ADMIN NOTE: Broken link has been removed from this post by Dell>

scotcruz · Answer

Thats the trouble, in bios.. only option under Video is the "Primary Display" option which then have 2 radio buttons with Auto and Intel display as option.

There is no multidisplay or Displaypprt option in BIOS.

redxps630 · Answer

Have you tried both options. Is it possible they renamed the multi display option to something inscrutable?  If still not working, consider a discrete low profile video card such as hd8490, hd8570 mentioned in 3020 tech guide, or a low profile card such as https://www.ebay.com/p/16038165128?iid=224000547213

redxps630 · Answer

assuming neither auto nor Intel HD option solves your issue, can you try connect pc to a 2nd  monitor via vga thus allowing tv display hdmi on wall? If yes then unplug 2nd monitor vga, does that kill hdmi video on tv too? seems to be a bios bug solved in earlier bios version but somehow solution removed in latest Bios. Go figure why Dell would do that.  If still no solution, buy a cheap card may be only option left.

scotcruz · Answer

I thought about adding a new card too but the on-board one should really work.

Currently the Displayport to HDMI only works if I have the VGA cable connected simultaneously.

This means I can't hang the TV on the wall as there is not enough clearance at the back.

The BIOS only has the Auto or Intel HD graphics option and nothing on Multi Display

redxps630 · Answer

no for mt you need a full height card.

actually now I recall in order for bios to show Multidisplay option, you may need two monitors connected to pc, one to vga the other to DP. Try that if you can. One user reported Dell bios hides multidisplay option unless there are two monitors connected. I will send the link if I find it.

scotcruz · Answer

Cheers for the input.. in case I go down the video cars route, I have a mini tower rather than SFF, do I still need a low profile video card?

redxps630 · Answer

The info from the other user is that you need a discrete card to show multidisplay in some bios. use it as a reference only. may or may not work for 3020.

“1. Need a legacy BIOS booted display card, first plug it into Inspiron 620.

2. Power on then press F2 into BIOS, find Intel Multi-Display / Intel Multi Monitors setting inside and choose AUTO.(This setting only shows when display card installed to machine, that will NOT shows when take out the card using integrated display on my machine). “

AndyPSC · Answer

In order to use the Displayport, you need a Displayport to HDMI active adapter.  Normal convertor or cable doesn't work. I try  and it works.

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