Monitors are the main output devices that display images and texts. It’s connected to your computer via a VGA (Video Graphics Array) cable, HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cable, or other connections, such as DisplayPort and USB-C.
However, you may encounter problems with these devices; for instance, your Dell monitor keeps entering power save mode and cannot be used with your computer. It is due to different factors, such as prolonged monitor inactivity, no power source, and settings on your computer. Note, this is a different issue than if your monitor keep going black.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to fix a Dell monitor that’s stuck in power save mode. Most of the fixes are free and easy to do, while others can cost you money—if, for example, it is due to hardware failure. So, if you’re currently experiencing this problem, read on to learn more.
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Why does my Dell Monitor Keep Entering Power Save Mode?
If you’re deciding to connect an old monitor or a new one, you may experience problems with the monitor upon startup or in the middle of doing your tasks. The display will instantly turn black with the following error message:
“Dell [model number] Entering power save mode”
This monitor error may be caused by these reasons:
- Unstable Power Source – Your Dell monitor relies on the computer as a power source. It means that if the connection between the monitor and computer is faulty, it will lead to your monitor going into power save mode.
- Power Settings – Your Windows computer has its Power Settings to regulate power consumption. One way to save power is by turning your monitor to power save mode. Changing the power settings can solve this problem.
- Windows 10 Update – An update on Windows 10 is one of the causes of this problem. You can directly solve this by changing one of the configurations under Power and Sleep settings.
- Drained Motherboard Battery – If your Dell monitor keeps entering power save mode before startup, it’s maybe a sign of a drained motherboard battery. You’ll need to change it with a new one to solve this issue.
Dell Monitor Stuck in Power Save Mode Fixes
Now that you know the reasons for the power save mode monitor error, you can now proceed to fix and solve this annoying problem. The first thing to do, however, is to check the cable connection between the Dell monitor and the computer.
Depending on the connection that your monitor is using, ensure that it is connected to the right slot—for instance, if your Dell monitor uses a VGA cable, make sure that it is inserted into the VGA slot on your computer.
Also, make sure that the cable connection is securely connected. If the cable is damaged, you can buy a new cable that’s compatible with your monitor. Try it out and see if this solves the power save mode issue.
Here are other fixes to prevent your Dell monitor from going into power save mode:
Fix #1: Turn off USB Selective Suspend in Windows 10
The USB selective suspend feature was recently integrated with Windows 10. It works by suspending an individual port without affecting other ports on the hub. This feature helps in conserving power by putting other USB devices in suspend mode.
However, it can be the cause of the power save mode issue on your monitor. To turn off this feature, follow these steps:
- Using the search menu, navigate to the Control Panel.
- Select Hardware and Sound.
- Choose Power Options > Change plan settings.
- Click Change advanced power settings and select USB Settings.
- Expand USB Selective Settings and select Disabled.
- Click OK and restart your computer.
- Check if your monitor still enters power save mode.
Fix #2: Disable Power Saving Settings
Similar to the first, the Power Saving settings are also a way to reduce power consumption. Too limited power saving settings can lead to your Dell monitor going to power save mode. To solve this, proceed to these steps:
- Go to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound.
- Choose Power Options and select Change plan settings.
- Select Edit plan settings.
- Change the Turn off the display option to Never.
- Similarly, change the Put the computer to sleep option to Never.
- Select Save Changes to confirm.
- Restart your computer and see if the power save mode problem persists.
Fix #3: Change the Motherboard Battery
If the monitor enters power save mode on startup, it can be due to a faulty motherboard battery or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) chip battery. This fix is quite tricky at first but can be done once you know the location of your computer’s motherboard and battery information.
Also, take note of the placement of cables inside the computer to avoid confusion once you plug them back into their ports. Finally, ensure that you’ll follow any safety guidelines on opening your computer to avoid risks such as electric shock.
To change the motherboard battery of your computer, do the following:
- Open the computer case and find the battery on the motherboard. Verify if it is removable. If it is held down by a metal clip, you’ll need to slide it out from under the clip to remove it.
- Once you have removed the battery, take note of its specifications, such as brand, voltage, wiring, and other details. It’s best if you can bring the battery physically to the tech store near your location.
- Replace the old battery with the new one. Once it is held in place, plug in the rest of the cables to their ports and turn on the computer.
- Next, you’ll need to reset all CMOS values to default and check if the power save mode problem is solved.
Final Thoughts
Those are all the fixes for a Dell monitor that’s entering power save mode. Usually, you can fix this issue by configuring options that are related to power saving. Hopefully, this guide will help you to constantly work on your tasks without worrying about your Dell monitor entering power save mode.
If these fixes did not work, it’s best to consult Dell’s technical support for further help. Also, if your monitor is quite old, it might be wise to replace it with a new one.
