If you own a Xbox, you may have come across this problem before. Suddenly the HDMI cable stops working and you can’t get your Xbox to play on your HDTV anymore. Don’t panic, there are easy fixes to this situation! We’ll show you how to fix your Xbox HDMI not working in five easy steps that even the most technophobic among us can follow.
If any part of this guide seems confusing, don’t be shy about asking for help in the comments section below! We’re always happy to help our readers with their technology questions and concerns.
How To Fix Xbox HDMI not working
- Step 1: Check the cable
Make sure you have a good quality, high-speed HDMI cable. If you’re using an older cable that came with your console or TV, replace it. If it still doesn’t work, then try plugging into a different port on both ends and make sure that any surge protectors or power strips are unplugged and/or turned off. Still no luck?
Try calling Microsoft for a replacement at 866-4MY-XBOX (866-469-9269). You should know that even if something is under warranty, you may still be charged for shipping and handling, so check out what their policy is before calling them.
The HDMI problem can be caused by many things, such as old cables or interference from other devices nearby like microwaves and refrigerators.
It’s a good idea to try plugging into a different port on both ends first because sometimes there is an issue with one of them, so that is always worth trying first. Also, make sure that any surge protectors or power strips are unplugged and/or turned off as well.
You may also want to try using an HDMI cable with Ethernet, which will allow you to use your console online without connecting it directly to your modem via Ethernet cable (you’ll still need a separate Ethernet cable for each console though).
This may help if you’re having trouble getting online, but keep in mind that there are only three ports on each console, so if both consoles have already been connected via Ethernet cables, neither will connect through an HDMI cable with Ethernet.
- Step 2: Test by using another cable
Is it just a bad cable or is there an actual problem with your Xbox? If you have another spare or cheap HDMI cable, try using that. If everything works, then you should get yourself a new cable as soon as possible.
It will most likely be an inexpensive option, but if it fixes all of your problems, then think of it as a worthwhile investment. You may also need to try different HDMI ports on both your Xbox and TV until you find one that works best for both.
Test by turning off any TV enhancements (like game mode or cinematic), and make sure everything is plugged incorrectly. Now test again! Sometimes these things can be frustratingly difficult to solve, so don’t worry if you are having trouble.
There are lots of resources online where people discuss their issues with various consoles, and sometimes finding someone else who has had similar issues can help lead you in the right direction.
This can be very useful if you’re trying to troubleshoot a bad component video connection. Don’t forget that you can download video games online nowadays too – giving you access to thousands of new titles without leaving home!
Step 1: Check your cables first: Make sure that they’re fully connected and going into their correct ports. This seems obvious, but many people rush through installation only to realize later that something wasn’t quite hooked up properly after all.
This usually results in getting frustrated over nothing – take time at every step along the way instead, and save yourself some headache down the road when things aren’t working properly.
- Step 3: Unplug and Plug Back In
Some issues with HDMI cables can be fixed by unplugging them and plugging them back into their ports. The power button on your controller has a small light that turns white when it is on and orange when it is off.
If you have an issue with your controller turning off while playing, then you might have a problem with getting a signal to it.
Try unplugging and plugging back in any HDMI cords you may have connected, along with pressing the power button multiple times until you see that orange color once again (you can even try holding down on that same button for 30 seconds just to make sure). If all else fails, contact Microsoft for additional support options.
They are more than happy to help you out! Reverse these instructions if your PS4 displays video but won’t play audio through its HDMI output.
There are many reasons an HDTV or monitor would refuse to display sound from a PS4’s HDMI output, including:
The console needs service. In rare cases, if both video and audio cut out simultaneously after updating or restoring your system software, something may have gone wrong during installation.
In those cases, take your PS4 to Sony’s repair center for diagnosis—they’ll get you up and running again quickly.
- Step 4: Clean out your console
Make sure you check for any dust that may have been collected inside your console. Turn off your device and unplug it from any power source.
Remove all cables from their ports and then flip over both of its sides. Use a brush or can of compressed air to get rid of any dust buildup inside. If you have access to an air compressor, use it to blow out all of its nooks and crannies.
Then plug it back in, turn it on, and try setting up your display again. Sometimes, you’ll see a sharp increase in picture quality after performing a cleaning like this one!
For those who don’t know how to take apart your console, there are resources online that will teach you what tools you need and how to remove each part.
Just make sure you find one specific to your device and follow it carefully when taking apart your unit. Be careful not to touch anything unnecessarily once it is open as parts will be exposed, which could potentially result in an electric shock. Dispose of parts properly once disassembled according to local regulations (they are usually recyclable), then put everything back together and test!
READ MORE: Xbox Headset is Not Working? Here’s the fix
READ MORE: Xbox not connecting to the internet? Here’s the fix
Conclusion
This article has shown you how to fix your Xbox HDMI not working in five easy steps. If you have any other problem that you’re facing on your Xbox, drop them in the comment section.