Windows OS is very hardware-friendly when using multiple display devices, both wired and wireless. Thanks to the built-in features of these OS’s, they are compatible with a wide range of monitors and projectors attached to the system as an alternate or secondary display device. However, there are times when errors are also encountered while using a second display device, wherein the system cannot project on a second screen, be it a monitor or a projector. This article shares how you can fix our Windows PC Can’t Project to Another Screen error.
Possible Causes for Your PC Can’t Project to Another Screen
- Hardware and Connection Issues: Improper wire connections, faulty cables, or damaged ports can cause communication breakdown between the display device and the computer.
- Outdated Display Drivers: If the display or the graphics drivers are old or incompatible, the system may face problems during screen sharing or while projecting on a second screen. Outdated drivers may not support advanced display features or fail to recognize external display devices.
- Improper Display Settings: Incorrect or incompatible display adapter settings can also be a primary cause of the above error. If attempts are made to project the display at a resolution higher than the device can support, it can lead to communication breaks between the system and the display device.
Resolving Your PC Can’t Project to Another Screen error on Windows
If you cannot project your PC display, follow these troubleshooting methods.
1] Check Cable Connections
Primary steps to resolve the abovementioned error involve checking if the cables are properly attached to the power source and the devices. Checking for the cables being connected tightly to the relevant ports and that the cable pins are in order can ensure that the connections are in order.
2] Running Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter on Windows
If the above steps fail to resolve the issue, running the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter tool on Windows 10 or 11 can help determine if there are any other problems related to the hardware or its drivers. If any such problems are detected, Windows will attempt to fix them independently, which may resolve the issue. To run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter:
On Windows 10
- Open the Settings option by typing the same on the Desktop Search Bar
- In the Settings window, click on Update and Security >Troubleshoot
- Click on Hardware and Devices and then Run the Troubleshooter to start the diagnostics.
On Windows 11
- Open the System window by typing the same after clicking on the Search icon in the Desktop Task Bar.
- On the System window, click on Troubleshoot.
- Click on Hardware and Device Troubleshooter under Other Troubleshooter followed by Next to start the automatic troubleshooting process.
On Windows PowerShell
The Troubleshooting utility can also be executed from the Windows PowerShell by typing the below command on the Terminal prompt:
msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
This command starts the Microsoft Diagnostic Tool (msdt.exe) utility and adds the option DeviceDiagnostic, which launches the Hardware and Device Diagnostic page.
Note: The msdt.exe can also be launched from the Run dialogue box, which would prompt the user to enter a passkey. However, launching the Troubleshooting option from Windows Terminal helps bypass the passkey entry screen
3] System File Checks
Corrupted System Files might also be a potential reason for causing connection issues between the computer and a second display device. Hence, running the System File Checker to detect and resolve any irregularities in the system files that might cause the issue can be helpful.
4] Update Video Adapter Drivers
Since outdated or incompatible display adapter drivers can be a major contributor to this error, updating them can help resolve any connectivity problems between the PC and the external display. Updating the drivers occasionally can also help ensure better compatibility and reduce the chances of errors by addressing compatibility issues and optimizing display settings.
To update the video adapter drivers, the best and recommended option would be to visit the manufacturer’s official website and download the latest version available.
I hope the post was easy to follow and you could fix the Your PC Can’t Project to Another Screen” on Windows.
