How to Fix External Monitor Not Working on macOS Ventura

Having an external monitor is a great way to enhance your productivity and expand your workspace on macOS Ventura. However, sometimes you may encounter issues where your external monitor is not working properly. In this blog post, we will guide you through some troubleshooting steps to help you fix this problem and get your external monitor up and running again.

Troubleshooting Steps

• Check physical connections

The first step in troubleshooting your external monitor is to ensure that all physical connections are secure. Make sure that the cables connecting your Mac to the monitor are properly plugged in and not loose. Additionally, try using different cables or adapters to rule out any issues with the current ones.

• Adjust display settings

If your physical connections are fine, the next step is to check and adjust your display settings. Go to System Preferences > Displays and check the "Arrangement" tab. Make sure that your external monitor is recognized and selected as the primary or extended display. You can also adjust the resolution and refresh rate to match your monitor's specifications if necessary.

• Update macOS Ventura

Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues with external monitors. To fix this, check for software updates by going to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update. Install any available updates for your operating system, including macOS Ventura. This can help resolve any known issues and ensure that your system is up to date.

• Reset NVRAM/PRAM

Resetting NVRAM (non-volatile random-access memory) or PRAM (Parameter RAM) can help resolve various hardware-related issues, including problems with external monitors. To do this, shut down your Mac and then press the power button. Immediately hold the Option + Command + P + R keys until you hear the startup sound for the second time. Release the keys, and your Mac will restart. Check if the external monitor is now working properly.

• Reset SMC (System Management Controller)

If resetting NVRAM/PRAM didn't solve the issue, you can try resetting the SMC (System Management Controller). This can help resolve power-related problems, which could be causing the external monitor not to work. To reset the SMC, shut down your Mac and then press and hold the power button for 10 seconds. Release the power button and turn on your Mac again. Test if the external monitor is functioning correctly.

Additional Solutions

If the above troubleshooting steps didn't fix the issue, here are some additional solutions you can try:

• Try different ports on your Mac and monitor: Sometimes, certain ports may not be functioning correctly. Switching to a different port on either your Mac or the monitor can help resolve this.
• Test the monitor with another device: To rule out any issues with the monitor itself, connect it to another device, such as a different computer or a gaming console, and see if it works. If it does, the problem may lie with your Mac.
• Check for third-party software conflicts: Some third-party software or applications can interfere with the proper functioning of external monitors. Try temporarily disabling or uninstalling any recently installed software to see if it resolves the issue.
• Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store for further assistance: If you have tried all the above solutions and your external monitor still isn't working, it may be time to seek professional help. Contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store near you for further assistance and guidance.

Having an external monitor can greatly enhance your work and productivity on macOS Ventura. If you're experiencing issues with your external monitor not working, follow the troubleshooting steps outlined in this blog post. By checking physical connections, adjusting display settings, updating macOS Ventura, resetting NVRAM/PRAM and SMC, and trying additional solutions, you can hopefully resolve the issue and get your external monitor working again. Remember, if all else fails, don't hesitate to reach out to Apple Support for further assistance.