power saving mode problem

[Squash64]

When I put my pc on this morning, 'power saving mode' came up on the monitor and then the screen went black.  I can hear the pc is running, but can't see anything.  I tried another monitor and got the same thing. 

Thank goodness I can use my hubby's laptop otherwise I'd be going mad but all my contacts are on my pc.

Any ideas anyone?

[mickstani]

Monitors generally do this when they are not getting the video signals. May be faulty or loose P C video card, or loose or incorrectly connected video cable. Could even be monitor is set to digital when it should be set to analogue or visa versa.

[Squash64]

Monitors generally do this when they are not getting the video signals. May be faulty or loose P C video card, or loose or incorrectly connected video cable. Could even be monitor is set to digital when it should be set to analogue or visa versa.

Thanks Mickstani, if it's a video card problem is this something I could sort out or do I need to call someone?

[BarriedaleNick]

You can check the cable from the PC to monitor - make sure both ends are firmly screwed into place.
Have a look at where the cable goes into the PC and check that the video card is firmly seated.
Try another video cable...

Can I ask if you get anything at all on screen when you power up - do you get any of the stuff that comes up before windows starts that everyone always ignores?

If you do then it is more likely to be a setting in windows - if you see nothing at all from powerup then it does look like the video card has gone.
If that is the case then find a decent local repair outfit or friendly computer bod - its an easy job to fix.

[Squash64]

Nick, I've tried another cable but it made no difference.  When I put the pc on, the message comes up for a couple of seconds then there is nothing, none of the usual startup stuff.
Thanks for your help, I will contact a repair chap I know.