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Connect the monitor’s power cable securely to the monitor and a working outlet, then press its power button. If its power light comes on but the screen stays blank, the monitor may be on while the computer’s video signal or selected input is the problem.
Turn on the monitor
- Connect the power cable. Firmly seat it in the monitor and in a working wall outlet or power strip. If you are unsure about the connection, unplug the cable and reconnect it fully.
- Press the monitor’s power button. Press firmly and wait a few seconds. Button placement varies by model: it may be on the lower front bezel or elsewhere on the monitor. Check the model’s manual if you cannot locate it.
- Check the power light. Dell describes a white or green light as power with a signal, and an amber or orange light—or blinking white—as power without a video signal. No light generally indicates no power. Indicator colors and behavior can differ by model, so use the manual if your monitor’s light does not match these examples.
If the power light is off
Check the electrical connection before troubleshooting the computer or video cable:
- Unplug and firmly reconnect the power cable at both ends.
- Test the outlet with another device. If you are using a power strip or surge protector, connect the monitor directly to a wall outlet.
- If available, try another compatible power cable. Dell notes that a desktop-computer power cable may work as a substitute, but check compatibility with your exact monitor model before using or buying one.
If the light remains off after checking the connection, outlet, and cable, contact Dell Support. Have the monitor’s model or Service Tag and the steps you have tried ready.
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If the power light is on but the screen is blank
A lit or blinking power light can mean the monitor has power but is not receiving a usable video signal. Check the signal path separately from the monitor’s power:
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- Wake the computer. Confirm that it is on and awake.
- Reseat the video cable. Disconnect and reconnect it at both the computer and monitor.
- Check the computer’s video output. If the computer has a separate graphics card, connect the cable to an output on that card rather than an unused video port on the motherboard.
- Select the correct input. Use the monitor’s controls to choose the input matching the cable you connected, such as HDMI or DisplayPort. Button layouts and menu steps vary by model; consult the manual if needed.
Check whether the monitor can display its own message
To distinguish a monitor power problem from a signal problem, leave the power cable connected, disconnect the video cable, and turn on the monitor. If it displays “No Signal” or a similar message, it has power and can display its own on-screen message. Built-in diagnostic procedures differ by model, so follow the manual for any further checks.
When a replacement power cable may help
Consider replacing the power cable only if it is missing or appears faulty. Dell’s general troubleshooting guidance does not specify one universal cable type for every monitor. Check the requirements for your exact model before choosing a replacement; connector compatibility matters before length or build quality.
Quick Recap
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Dell 27 Plus QHD Monitor - S2725DSM - 27-inch QHD (2560x1440) 144Hz 1ms Display, 2 x 3W Speakers, HDMI/DisplayPort 1.4 Connectivity, Height/Tilt/Pivot/Swivel Adjustability, AMD FreeSync - Ash White
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Dell 27 Plus Monitor - S2725HSM - 27-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display, 2 x 3W Speakers, HDMI Connectivity, Height/Tilt/Pivot/Swivel Adjustability, AMD FreeSync - Ash White
- Elevated entertainment: The FHD resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring clarity, while a 144Hz refresh rate, and 1ms Moving Picture Response Time (MPRT) deliver a smooth, tear-free viewing experience.
- Hear the audio difference: Immerse yourself in sound with integrated dual 3W speakers delivering a wider range of frequencies.
- Eye comfort: Prioritize visual comfort with this 4-star TÜV-certified display. Reduce harmful blue light emissions while maintaining stunning image quality without compromising colors.
- Designed for comfort: Adjust your monitor to suit your preference throughout the day.
- Dell Display and Peripheral Manager: Experience Dell’s singular, innovative application to optimize the performance of your entire Dell PC workspace*. *Based on Dell internal analysis, December 2024.
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Dell 27 Monitor - SE2726H - 27-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display, in-Plane Switching (IPS) Technology, AMD FreeSync™, TÜV 3-Star 2X HDMI, Tilt
- Clear visuals. Fluid motion: A 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms MPRT deliver smooth, tear‑free motion across work, gaming, and streaming for clearer, more fluid viewing.
- Eye comfort: TÜV Rheinland 3‑star* certification reduces harmful blue light while preserving stunning color quality without compromise. *TÜV Rheinland 3-star eye comfort certification.
- Wide viewing angle: Get consistent views across a wide 178° /178° viewing angle.
- In-Plane Switching (IPS): See excellent color accuracy and consistency across wide viewing angles with In-plane Switching (IPS) technology.
- Ultra-thin bezels: Maximize your viewing experience with thin bezels.
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Sale
Dell 24 Plus Monitor - S2425HSM - 23.8-inch FHD (1920x1080) 144Hz 1ms Display, 2 x 3W Speakers, HDMI Connectivity, Height/Tilt/Pivot/Swivel Adjustability, AMD FreeSync - Ash White
- Elevated entertainment: The FHD resolution and 1500:1 contrast ratio bring clarity, while a 144Hz refresh rate, and 1ms Moving Picture Response Time (MPRT) deliver a smooth, tear-free viewing experience.
- Hear the audio difference: Immerse yourself in sound with integrated dual 3W speakers delivering a wider range of frequencies.
- Eye comfort: Prioritize visual comfort with this 4-star TÜV-certified display. Reduce harmful blue light emissions while maintaining stunning image quality without compromising colors.
- Designed for comfort: Adjust your monitor to suit your preference throughout the day.
- Dell Display and Peripheral Manager: Experience Dell’s singular, innovative application to optimize the performance of your entire Dell PC workspace*. *Based on Dell internal analysis, December 2024.
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