The Dell XPS M1330 won't automatically recognize an external monitor.
Laptops such as the Dell XPS M1330 are revered for their portability, allowing you to connect to different networks and systems in many locations. The Dell XPS M1330, like other laptops, allows you to connect to various external monitors and systems. This connectivity makes the M1330 ideal for presentations to large groups at school or work. If your XPS M1330 does not recognize an external monitor, you'll need to check a few important items to see what is causing the issue.
Transfer Keys
Some laptops will automatically send imaging from the desktop to an external monitor, but most will not. Your XPS M1330 will not recognize an external monitor unless you use a key sequence to send the image to the monitor. Hold down the Function (Fn) key, then strike the F8 key (which is also labeled CRT/LCD). This key sequence will allow you to alternate between viewing the image on an external monitor only, on the external monitor and laptop LCD screen simultaneously, or on the laptop's LCD screen only.
Faulty Monitor/VGA Cable
Your M1330 will not recognize your external monitor if either the monitor or the VGA cable are faulty. If the VGA cable is faulty, then your laptop will not realize that the cable is attached. If the monitor is faulty, then the laptop will not sense that it is connected to an external device. In these cases, replacing the faulty piece will rectify the problem. Replacing a defective VGA cable incurs a nominal expense; an average user shouldn't, as of the date of publication, spend more than $30 on a VGA cable. Replacing a monitor will be more expensive, with the most basic models ranging from $80 to $100.
Faulty Motherboard
Your Dell laptop will not recognize the external monitor if the laptop's VGA port is malfunctioning. The VGA port is built directly onto the M1330's motherboard, turning a port issue into a complete motherboard issue. Faulty motherboards cannot be repaired, and the cost for a replacement motherboard, at the time of publication, ranges from $199 to $279. Remember that this cost is for the motherboard alone and does not include any labor costs to have the motherboard installed. A failing motherboard is especially troubling because, while it is possible for only one portion of a motherboard to fail, this kind of failure often predicates more serious motherboard issues.
Troubleshooting
You can troubleshoot your Dell XPS M1330 by starting with the transfer keys and then moving to the VGA cable and monitor. If you have access to a spare VGA cable and monitor, you will be able to troubleshoot your M1330 by yourself. If you do not have the extra parts at home, a certified computer repair center will be able to diagnose the problem for you for a nominal fee.
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