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Docking station external monitors not working when a Windows 10 version 1703-based portable computer is connected

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This article provides a workaround for an issue where an external monitor connected to a docking station doesn't work when a Windows 10 version 1703-based portable computer is connected.

Applies to:   Windows 10
Original KB number:   4051625

Symptoms

Consider the following scenario:

  • You have external monitors that are connected to a docking station.
  • You have a portable computer that is running Windows 10 version 1703.
  • In Power Options, the Lid close action setting is configured to "Do nothing."
  • You turn on the computer and then close the lid.
  • You attach the computer to the docking station.

In this scenario, the computer doesn't detect the external monitors. Therefore, the external monitors display a black screen.

Workaround

Use either of the following methods to force detection of the external monitors:

  • Use the keyboard shortcut Win+Ctrl+Shift+B.
  • In Display Settings, click the Detect button.

To work around this issue, use one of the following methods:

  • Change Lid close action to any setting other than "Do nothing.". Before you make this change, make sure that the change does not affect your docking experience.
  • Upgrade to Windows 10 Version 1709 that does not have this issue.