How to make external monitor run with R50e?

[Nathan123]

Dear all,

I am encountering the following problem and would very much appreciate your help with it: I am using an R50e ThinkPad, which I'd like to run with an external monitor.

Now, I have connected the monitor (Fujitsu Siemens Scenicview A19-3A) to the external monitor connector using a DVI - VGA/SVGA/XVGA monitor adapter. I have then switched the display output location to "LCD & external (CRT) monitor" using the Fn+F7 key combination, but the external monitor seems not to receive a signal (at least none that he'd be willing to transform into some type of display) -- it remains all black.

I also installed the monitor device drivers from Fujitsu on my laptop, but to no avail. Same is true for the IBM ThinkPad Monitor File and the drivers for the Intel graphics card.

The monitor is definitely working (with my desktop), no pins of the cable or adapter are bent. Also, the external monitor connector of my ThinkPad works perfectly fine when a projector is attached to it.

I just tried out a second external monitor (different model) and the same problem occurred (all black screen), regardless of whether I connected it before starting the system or not.

All plugs are pushed in firmly, of course. The only reaction the external monitor shows is that when I plug it in OR unplug it from the laptop (or the DVI-to-VGA adapter), it displays "No signal - Going to sleep".

Any suggestions on what the problem might be and how I might be able to get the external monitor to work with my ThinkPad?

Thanks a lot in advance!

Nathan

[dr_st]

I think the DVI-to-VGA adapter is the culprit. What kind of "adapter" is that? If it's one of the simple little plugs, it won't work, because the monitor cannot receive a DVI-A signal, only DVI-D, according to the specs:
http://www.fujitsu-siemens.nl/products/ ... 19_3a.html

Why not just connect a VGA cable?

[Nathan123]

That was the solution: the monitor is now running with a VGA cable! Thanks a lot dr_st!! I just wasn't aware of the different types of DVI connectors. The obvious take-away message: Solutions need not be complicated or resource-consuming at all -- if only you have a clear idea of what you are dealing with.

Thanks again!