How to Enable Motherboard HDMI? Guide [2023]

The term HDMI stands for High Definition Multimedia Interface, a technology designed to facilitate fast audio and video connections between electronic devices. This advanced interface is instrumental in delivering clear images across various devices, such as TVs and monitors. The HDMI port(s) can typically be found on a computer’s motherboard, which serves as the central system housing numerous components. Among these components, HDMI ports play a crucial role in supporting rapid signal transmission.

While HDMI ports are generally reliable, users may occasionally encounter issues such as a black screen even after connecting a second monitor via an HDMI port. This can result from a variety of factors, including a damaged HDMI port, cable, or other related components. If you are seeking information on how to enable motherboard HDMI or resolve the black screen issue, this post will provide valuable insights and solutions.

Why is the Motherboard HDMI Port not Working? Reasons!

Like any problem we face, there could be several reasons behind the issue. We must consider every possible solution to get to the actual solution easily. Well, we will do the same in this post. We will review any causes that are letting you not use your motherboard’s HDMI port and enjoy playing games or your favorite chores. As per our knowledge, the issue took place maybe due to

• Faulty Motherboard: What if your motherboard isn’t working, maybe since it’s damaged or outdated? Well, this may be the reason why you’re not getting displayed on the monitor. You must check this before finding the solution. 
• Damaged HDMI port: If the HDMI port is in bad condition, this might be the reason why you’re unable to connect your monitor to it. There may be a lot of dust inside the port, or the inner circuitry is damaged or outdated. The solution to this issue is in the next section.
• Defective HDMI cable or wire: If you think that both the motherboard and the HDMI port are fine, the issue is happening due to a faulty HDMI port. In such a condition, there would be improper signal transmission so the display.
• No Integrated Graphics: HDMI port only does its operations when the CPU has integrated graphics. So, if your processor doesn’t have integrated graphics, this is another reason why the HDMI port isn’t working.
• Disabled Integrated Graphics: Suppose your CPU has integrated graphics. In such a case, you have to check whether the graphics are enabled or not. If not, this may be a reason for the HDMI’s improper working.
• Outdated Integrated Graphics Drivers: The outdated integrated graphics drivers may be a reason why the HDMI port isn’t working. If drivers aren’t fine, the graphics won’t, and ultimately, the HDMI port will lack proper connectivity. 

How to Enable Motherboard HDMI?

Enabling motherboard HDMI is essential when using an onboard HDMI port that has been disabled, either by default or due to a previous configuration. To enable the motherboard HDMI, you may need to access the motherboard’s BIOS or UEFI settings and adjust the configuration accordingly. The process to enable motherboard HDMI may vary depending on the specific motherboard model and manufacturer, but in general, it involves entering the BIOS or UEFI settings, navigating to the integrated graphics or display settings, and then enabling the onboard HDMI. Once enabled, save your changes and restart your computer to apply the new settings. This should allow you to successfully utilize the motherboard HDMI for your display needs.

Let’s now move to the more manageable steps that support enabling the motherboard HDMI. Four basic steps set the motherboard HDMI issue.

1. Ensure that the motherboard, HDMI port, and HDMI cable are fine.

First thing first, we have to start our procedure after ensuring that the motherboard, HDMI port, and HDMI cable are working fine. All the mentioned components are in their ideal condition and can give us their true utility. Let’s explore how you can ensure the stability of these elements!

1. Check Motherboard: Start by checking the motherboard’s stability, physical appearance, and performance. If your motherboard was working fine before you went to bed, then chances are your motherboard is most probably fine for now. For more help, you can read our top guides, faulty motherboard or dead motherboard, related to the motherboard to deeply analyze the motherboard’s situation. 
2. Check HDMI port: If you have ensured that your motherboard is fine, the next step is to check the HDMI port. First, you have to start by checking the port’s inside structure, outside appearance, and connection with the motherboard. Second, simply put a flash drive into the HDMI port to double-check whether it’s working fine or facing some issues. If it connects to the flash drive, it’s fine.

1. Take a look at the HDMI cable: When you know that both the motherboard and HDMI port are fine, it’s time to move toward analyzing the HDMI cable. There are two ways to do so, first, by physical analysis, and second, by practically connecting it with some other device. So ensure that there is no damage on the cable before checking its utility by connecting it with some other device.

2. Double-check Integrated Graphics in your CPU

The second step involved checking the integrated graphics in your CPU because the HDMI port only works on your motherboard because of the integrated graphics, not because of the dedicated GPU. If you know the name of the CPU, you don’t have to follow the process given below. If not, be with me, and let’s uncover the processor’s mystery in no time!

• Step 1: Open Settings in Windows > go to system > scroll to end and go to About.

• Step 2: Go to Device specifications > copy/note the processor’s name.  

If you’re an expert, you can easily assess whether the CPU has integrated graphics by only seeing the name. But, How? Well, if it’s an AMD Ryzen CPU with the suffix “G” or an Intel CPU with the suffix “K” at the end, it has integrated graphics. On the other hand, if it doesn’t follow the above criterion, Search for the CPU model number and name on the internet. Then open the webpage and check the processor’s specifications. 

3. Enable Integrated Graphics Using BIOS

When you have confirmed that the integrated graphics are in your CPU, it’s time to move towards BIOS and turn on the integrated graphics. Remember that the selection of the perfect key to move into the BIOS is also a necessary step. Well, the most commonly used keys are Delete, Esc (escape), F1, F2, F8, and F12. When we say open up the BIOS section using the, it means to press the one your specific PC has. So, when you know every important thing, let’s dive into the steps!

• Step 1: Restart your computer and let it turn back on. 
• Step 2: Keep pressing the boot key when the PC is being restarted until you access the troubleshooting window.
• Step 3: Navigate to the Advanced tab > find the setting related to iGPU.

Note: Each BIOS’s interface could be different for different Windows systems, so the options could be different as well. Well, there may be options like iGPU, iGPU Multi-Monitor, or Internal Graphics stipulating the same thing, integrated graphics.   

• Step 4: Set the iGPU to Enabled > Save the changes.

After doing everything mentioned above, restart your computer and permit it to boot up completely. Once the PC is back, use it as you were before. Next, we will try to update the drivers and connect the monitor to the motherboard using HDMI and check whether the issue has been resolved or not. 

4. Install the Latest Integrated Graphics Drivers

The final step while enabling the motherboard’s HDMI port by updating the latest integrated graphics driver. In this section, all you have to do is to install the integrated graphics driver and try connecting the monitor. For your information, the whole process contains only a simple set of steps. Those include

• Step 1: Start by pressing the Windows key + X to access a set of options. 
• Step 2: Locate the sixth option, Device Manager, and click it. 

• Step 3: Go to the seventh option, Display Adaptors > open it.
• Step 4: Navigate to the integrated graphics > right-click on it to uncover some more options.

• Step 5: Select Update driver unless it’s not the latest one. Wait until the downloading and installation isn’t completed. 

After that, all you have to do is to restart your computer and wait until the PC isn’t turned on back with all the new changes. Now, once the computer is turned on, go to the next step. 

5. Connect Your new Monitor

This is where you need to connect your second monitor to your system using the HDMI port on your motherboard. But before connecting, make sure your system is off and there is no power on your PC. If you have ensured this, let’s explore how to connect the new display to your PC!

• Step 1: First, ensure you have all the necessary equipment, like an HDMI cable, a spare HDMI port, and a monitor.
• Step 2: Connect the cable to the monitor and the system’s HDMI port. 
• Step 3: After that, simply turn on your system and enter your credentials. Now right-click on the desktop, select display, and move to the setting.

Note: In the end, checking the order of primary and secondary monitors is either proper or not. In case of disorder, arrange them manually or press apply.

How to use Motherboard HDMI with Graphics card?

To use the motherboard HDMI alongside a dedicated graphics card, follow these in-depth steps:

1. Preparation: Ensure your computer is turned off and unplugged from the power source. Gather the necessary cables (two HDMI cables) and ensure you have two monitors compatible with HDMI inputs.
2. Connect primary display: Plug one end of the first HDMI cable into your dedicated graphics card’s HDMI port located at the back of your computer. Connect the other end of the cable to your primary monitor. This will serve as your main display.
3. Connect secondary display: Plug one end of the second HDMI cable into the motherboard’s HDMI port, also located at the back of your computer. Connect the other end of the cable to your secondary monitor.
4. Power on your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI settings: Turn on your computer and quickly press the designated key (e.g., F2, F10, or DEL) during the startup process to access the BIOS/UEFI settings. The exact key varies depending on your motherboard’s manufacturer and model. The key is usually displayed on the screen during the initial boot phase.
5. Locate the integrated graphics or display settings: Within the BIOS/UEFI menu, find the settings related to integrated graphics or display output. This section may be labeled as “Advanced,” “Chipset,” or “Peripherals,” depending on your motherboard.
6. Enable onboard HDMI or integrated graphics: In the integrated graphics or display settings, enable the onboard HDMI or integrated graphics option, making sure that the dedicated graphics card remains set as the primary display. This setting may be labeled as “IGD Multi-Monitor,” “Surround View,” “Multi-Monitor,” or something similar, depending on the motherboard.
7. Save and exit BIOS/UEFI settings: After enabling the onboard HDMI or integrated graphics, save your changes by selecting “Save & Exit” or pressing the designated key (usually F10). Confirm your choice, and your computer will restart.
8. Configure display settings within the operating system:
   • For Windows: a. Right-click on the desktop and select “Display settings.” b. In the Display settings window, you should see both monitors detected. c. Click and drag the monitor icons to arrange them according to their physical placement on your desk. d. Choose your desired display mode by selecting either “Extend these displays” to use both monitors as a continuous workspace, or “Duplicate these displays” to mirror the same content on both monitors. e. Apply the changes and close the Display settings window.
   • For macOS: a. Click the Apple menu and select “System Preferences.” b. Click on “Displays.” c. In the Displays preferences window, click on the “Arrangement” tab. d. Click and drag the monitor icons to arrange them according to their physical placement on your desk. e. Choose your desired display mode by checking or unchecking the “Mirror Displays” checkbox. Check the box to mirror the same content on both monitors or uncheck it to use both monitors as a continuous workspace. f. Close the System Preferences window.

By following these detailed steps, you can use the motherboard HDMI with a dedicated graphics card to set up a multi-monitor configuration effectively.

How to Enable Dual Monitors in BIOS Asus

To enable dual monitors using the onboard HDMI and dedicated graphics card on an ASUS motherboard, you will need to configure the BIOS settings. Follow these thorough steps:

1. Turn off your computer and make sure its disconnected from any power source. Connect your primary monitor to the dedicated graphics card’s HDMI port with an HDMI cable. Use another HDMI cable to connect your secondary monitor to the motherboard’s HDMI port.
2. Turn on your computer, and as it boots up, promptly press the appropriate key (usually F2, F10, or DEL) to access the ASUS BIOS settings. This key is typically displayed on-screen during the initial boot sequence.
3. In the ASUS BIOS settings, navigate to the “Advanced” menu tab using the arrow keys. Within the Advanced menu, find and select the “System Agent (SA) Configuration” option, then press Enter.
4. Next, access the Graphics Configuration by selecting it within the System Agent (SA) Configuration submenu. In the Graphics Configuration settings, locate the “IGD Multi-Monitor” option and set it to “Enabled” to allow the use of both the integrated graphics and dedicated graphics card simultaneously.
5. If you want to change the primary display output between the dedicated graphics card and the integrated graphics, locate the “Primary Display” option in the Graphics Configuration settings. Set it to “Auto,” “CPU Graphics” (integrated graphics), or “PCI-E” (dedicated graphics card), depending on your preference.
6. After enabling the IGD Multi-Monitor and adjusting the primary display (if necessary), save your changes by selecting “Save & Exit” or pressing the F10 key. Confirm your selection, and your computer will reboot.
7. Once your computer restarts, configure the display settings within your operating system:
   • For Windows: a. Right-click on the desktop and choose “Display settings.” b. In the Display settings window, you should see both monitors detected. c. Arrange the monitor icons by clicking and dragging them to match their physical placement on your desk. d. Select your desired display mode: either “Extend these displays” for an extended workspace or “Duplicate these displays” to show the same content on both monitors. e. Apply the changes and close the Display settings window.
   • a. Click the Apple menu and choose “System Preferences.” b. Select “Displays.” c. In the Displays preferences window, navigate to the “Arrangement” tab. d. Arrange the monitor icons by clicking and dragging them to match their physical placement on your desk. e. Choose your desired display mode by checking or unchecking the “Mirror Displays” checkbox. Check the box to show the same content on both monitors, or uncheck it for an extended workspace. f. Close the System Preferences window.

By following these detailed steps, you can enable dual monitors on an ASUS motherboard using the onboard HDMI and dedicated graphics card for a multi-monitor setup.

How to Enable Dual Monitors in BIOS Gigabyte

To enable dual monitors in BIOS for a Gigabyte motherboard, follow these thorough steps:

1. First, make sure your computer is turned off and unplugged from any electrical outlets. Attach your main monitor to the dedicated graphics card using an HDMI or DisplayPort cable, and connect your secondary monitor to the motherboard using a suitable HDMI or DisplayPort cable as well.
2. Power on your computer and enter BIOS settings: Turn on your computer and quickly press the designated key (usually the ‘Delete’ key) during the startup process to access the Gigabyte BIOS settings. The key is usually displayed on the screen during the initial boot phase.
3. Navigate to the “Peripherals” menu: In the Gigabyte BIOS settings, use the arrow keys to navigate to the “Peripherals” menu tab.
4. Locate the “Intel Platform Trust Technology” (PTT) option: Within the Peripherals menu, find the “Intel Platform Trust Technology” (PTT) and press Enter.
5. Access the “Internal Graphics” settings: In the Intel PTT submenu, locate the “Internal Graphics” option and press Enter to access the internal graphics settings.
6. Enable Internal Graphics: Set the “Internal Graphics” option to “Enabled” to allow the use of both the integrated graphics and dedicated graphics card.
7. Save and exit BIOS settings: After enabling the internal graphics, save your changes by selecting “Save & Exit” or pressing the F10 key. Confirm your choice, and your computer will restart.
8. Adjust display settings within your operating system:
   • For Windows: a. Right-click on your desktop and choose “Display settings.” b. Within the Display settings window, both monitors should be visible. c. Rearrange the monitor icons by clicking and dragging them to match their actual positions on your desk. d. Select your preferred display mode, either “Extend these displays” for a continuous workspace across both monitors or “Duplicate these displays” to show identical content on each monitor. e. Confirm the changes and exit the Display settings window.

Conclusion

Every motherboard has HDMI ports, also known as video ports, to connect different monitors and send video and audio signals. Everything looks pretty decent up to this point, but the issue arrived when you tried to connect multiple monitors with a single system. The HDMI port isn’t detecting the new monitor. This makes the users confused regarding enabling motherboard HDMI and resolving the issue. Well, if you’re facing the same issue or just want to increase your knowledge about how to connect multiple displays, this post is for you.

First of all, you have to start by analyzing the possible reason for the issue. This may be due to a faulty motherboard, HDMI port, or HDMI cable. If these are fine, in your case, you may need to check whether there are integrated graphics since these are essential to connect multiple displays. After that, move towards enabling integrated graphics using the BIOS setting, installing the latest integrated graphics, and then connecting the monitor while following the method we have given above.

Sajid Ali

CEO, Lead Writer

Sajid Ali is a tech enthusiast and gamer who loves to write reviews about gaming hardware. He has a passion for staying up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and loves sharing his knowledge with others. Sajid studied Intermediate Computer Science at Degree College and went on to earn his Bachelor's in Computer Science from GSC. In his free time, you can find him testing out new hardware and software, or playing the latest video games. Sajid's in-depth understanding of computers and his love for gaming make him the perfect author to turn to for all things tech and gaming.