TV & entertainment troubleshooting

PlayStation turns on but the TV says no signal

The console may output an unsupported resolution, fail the HDMI handshake, use a damaged cable or port, or start without completing normal video output.

Reviewed Jul 17, 20264 minute guidePlayStation console
Quick answer

The console may output an unsupported resolution, fail the HDMI handshake, use a damaged cable or port, or start without completing normal video output.

Start here: Connect the console directly to the TV. Bypass receivers, switches, splitters, and capture devices.
Guided check

Match the symptom, then work through the safe checks.

0/4 checked

1. What best matches what you observe?

2. Complete only the checks that are safe for you.

4 user-level checks are available in this guide.Stop immediately if any warning condition applies.
Show stop conditions
  • The HDMI port is bent, loose, burned, or unusually hot
  • Opening the console would expose internal power and void service options

Likely causes

  • The TV is on the wrong HDMI input
  • The HDMI cable, TV port, or console port is failing
  • The console video resolution is not accepted by the display
  • A receiver, switch, capture device, or HDCP handshake blocks video

Quick checks, in order

Connect the console directly to the TV

Bypass receivers, switches, splitters, and capture devices.

safe

Test another known-good HDMI cable and port

Confirm the TV input matches the physical port.

safe

Fully power-cycle console and TV

Disconnect both from power briefly before reconnecting.

safe

Start PlayStation Safe Mode

Use the official procedure to select a compatible video output.

caution

What remains visible?

Safe Mode appears

Change video output settings and restart normally.

Another device works on the same TV port

Focus on the PlayStation cable, port, and output state.

The console light indicates an abnormal startup

Use the official light-state and safe-mode guidance before hardware service.

Stop and get qualified help when

Do not continue troubleshooting if any of these apply:
  • The HDMI port is bent, loose, burned, or unusually hot
  • Opening the console would expose internal power and void service options

Official support and model manuals

Use the full model number from the rating label. The manufacturer manual is the deciding reference when codes differ by region or product family.

Frequently asked questions

Can resolution settings cause no signal?

Yes. Safe Mode can restore a video format the display accepts.

Why should I bypass a receiver?

It removes extra HDMI and HDCP handshakes, cables, and settings from the test path.

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