Why HDMI Problems Happen
HDMI is supposed to make it easy to connect all your devices with one HDMI cable for both audio and video. To do this, connected devices must be “licensed” to communicate with each other through a standard known as HDCP. This ability to recognize and communicate media and devices is referred to as the “HDMI handshake.” If the handshake doesn’t work, that means the HDCP encryption embedded in the HDMI signal is not recognized by one or more of the connected devices. This usually results in you not being able to watch your movies or play your video games. There are some things you can do to work around this issue. Here’s how to troubleshoot problems with HDMI.
How to Troubleshoot a Faulty HDMI Connection
Here are some steps that may help correct HDMI connection problems so you can get back to gaming or watching.
How to Troubleshoot a Faulty HDMI Connection on an HDR TV
The implementation of HDR in many 4K Ultra HD TVs has been know to cause HDMI connection problems. If you have an HDR (High Dynamic Range) TV and none of the above steps work, follow these troubleshooting tips:
How to Troubleshoot HDMI-to-DVI or DVI-to-HDMI Connection Problems
If you are attempting to connect an HDMI device to a TV with DVI connection, you may need to use an HDMI-to-DVI conversion cable. Alternatively, you can use an HDMI cable with an added HDMI-to-DVI adapter or a DVI cable with a DVI-to-HDMI adapter. This allows communication between the HDMI and DVI devices. Older DVI-equipped TVs may not have the firmware to recognize an HDMI source device. Contact your device’s manufacturer to proceed further.
How to Troubleshoot a Faulty HDMI Connection with a Laptop or Computer
If you’re attempting to use a PC or laptop as a source component, make sure your computer settings designate HDMI as the default output connection. If you can’t get an image from your laptop to appear on your TV screen, try these troubleshooting tips:
How to Troubleshoot a Faulty HDMI Connection With Wireless HDMI
Wireless HDMI devices—those that use an external transmitter to wirelessly transmit audio/video signals to a receiver—can also cause connectivity problems. There are two main “wireless HDMI” formats, each supporting their own group of products: WHDI and Wireless HD (WiHD). These are intended to make it more convenient to connect HDMI devices without a cable. Follow these troubleshooting steps if you’re trying to connect a wireless HDMI device:
