Monitor / Vista power saving problem?

Hardware and technical stuff
1

I have a weird issue, maybe someone here can give me an idea what may be up. My google-fu has failed.

Sometimes, when vista turns off my Dell 2408WFP monitor for power saving, the monitor doesn’t turn back on when I press keys, move the mouse, etc. Windows isn’t crashing or locking up, as my second monitor comes back on without a problem. If I then go to my video settings, and change the resolution or rotation of the 2408WFP, it turns back on, no problem.

Seems highly unlikely it’s a videocard or video driver issue, as the problem has persisted through an upgrade from an Nvidia 8800 GTS to an ATI HD4870. An upgrade driven by assuming the problem was because of my videocard starting to fail.

My 2408WFP is properly identified, has the current drivers according to dell and windows. When it won’t turn on, the monitor tells me that I’m simply not receiving a signal from my PC. It’s hooked up via DVI-I, and it knows that the cable is plugged in.

Any ideas? (Vista 64 if it matters).

2

Same problem I had a few months ago actually. I narrowed it down and realized the PC was absolutely on, and it was just the display/video failing to activate (media files still served, music could be heard, etc.)

I also have Vista x64 and two monitors, with an 8800gt.

I think it may have been something as stupid as making sure the cables were very secure. Either that, or driver issues which do not apply to you.

3

Same issue with my Dell 2707WFP. Based on earlier searching of their support forums, it’s a hardware problem w/ some Dell monitors. Unfortunately, I’m out if warranty and have to live with it.

4

I have that problem with a Dell 2001FP, also out of warranty. I got into the habit of physically turning the monitor off before Vista goes into sleep mode, and turning it on before waking up Vista. That worked for me most of the time. I’ve since got new Samsung monitors that work just fine, so I know it’s not my video card.