Device Manager
Device Manager

If you’re trying to connect your Windows PC to an external display and see the message:

“Your PC can’t project to another screen. Try reinstalling the driver or using another video card.”

— don’t worry. This issue is common and usually related to graphics driver problems, incorrect display settings, or hardware connection issues. Below, we’ll walk through all the proven solutions.

⚙️ 1. Check Physical Connections

Before diving into software fixes, ensure your hardware is properly connected:

  • HDMI / DisplayPort / VGA cable: Make sure the cable is firmly plugged into both your PC and the monitor or TV.
  • Ports: Try a different port on your PC or display if available.
  • Cable test: Swap cables to rule out a faulty one.
  • Monitor input: Confirm your monitor is set to the correct input source (e.g., HDMI 1, DisplayPort, etc.).

🧩 2. Reinstall or Update Your Graphics Drivers

Corrupted or outdated graphics drivers are the most common cause of this error.

Steps to reinstall your driver:

  1. Press Windows + X → select Device Manager.
  2. Expand Display adapters.
  3. Right-click your GPU (e.g., Intel UHD, AMD Radeon, NVIDIA GeForce) → choose Uninstall device.
  4. Check Delete the driver software for this device → click Uninstall.
  5. Restart your PC.
  6. Windows will reinstall the default display driver automatically.

Alternatively, visit your GPU manufacturer’s website to manually download and install the latest driver:

(Sources: The Windows Club, Next of Windows)

🔄 3. Use the Correct Projection Mode

Sometimes, the projection mode is set incorrectly.

To adjust it:

  1. Press Windows + P to open the Project menu.
  2. Choose one of the following options:
    • Duplicate – show the same screen on both displays.
    • Extend – use the second screen as an extra workspace.
    • Second screen only – use only the external display.

If the menu doesn’t appear or doesn’t work, your display driver might still be malfunctioning — go back to Step 2.

🧰 4. Run the Hardware and Devices Troubleshooter

Windows includes a built-in troubleshooter that can automatically detect and fix display-related issues.

To run it:

  1. Press Windows + R, type:msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic
  2. Press Enter and follow the on-screen instructions.

🔌 5. Check Display Settings in Windows

Make sure Windows recognizes your second display:

  1. Go to Settings → System → Display.
  2. Click Detect under “Multiple displays.”
  3. If your second monitor appears, configure its resolution and orientation as needed.

🧱 6. Update Windows

Outdated system files can interfere with display functionality.

To update:

  1. Press Windows + I → Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates and install any available patches.
  3. Restart your PC afterward.

💡 7. Try Another GPU or Adapter

If your PC has both integrated and dedicated graphics (common in laptops), the issue could be tied to one GPU.

Try this:

  • In Device Manager, disable one GPU temporarily and test the other.
  • If you’re using a docking station or adapter (USB-C to HDMI, etc.), test with a direct connection instead.

If the problem persists, your video card or adapter may be faulty.

🧼 8. Reset or Reinstall Windows (Last Resort)

If none of the above steps work, consider resetting Windows:

  1. Go to Settings → System → Recovery.
  2. Under Reset this PC, click Get started.
  3. Choose Keep my files (to preserve personal data).

This will reinstall Windows and fix deeper system-level issues.

✅ Final Thoughts

The “Your PC can’t project to another screen” error almost always points to a driver or connection issue. Start by reinstalling your display driver and checking cables — these two steps solve the problem for most users.

If you still face issues after trying all methods, it might indicate a hardware fault in your GPU or display adapter that requires professional repair or replacement.

References:

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