10 Fixes TV Says No Signal But Cable Box Is On

The TV says no signal, but there is a problem with the cable box. The error usually results in this issue with the media source connected to your TV. A signal problem can also occur due to a few small problems with the TV.

Check all connections between the TV and the set-top box to resolve the problem of no signal on the TV when the cable box is turned on. Check with your cable service providers to see if there is an outage in your area. Keep reading to find out why this issue occurs and how to complete the troubleshooting steps.

Why does the “No Signal”error occur even though the cable box is turned on?

When everything is connected, your TV still displays “no signal”because it is set to the wrong source. A damaged cable is another common cause. In other cases, it may be an HDCP issue or HDMI-CEC enabled.

It may even mean that there is a problem with your cable provider.
However, it is not an exaggeration to say that your box has expired.
The error may appear due to service interruptions caused by snowfall, heavy rain, or strong winds.
You should stop using your smartphone and wait until the inclement weather has passed before checking if the signal has improved.
The reason is that satellite technology is tuned to a certain level of harsh weather that interferes.
The weather is fine and your TV hardware is working. This implies that the problem may be related to something else, perhaps something that is not immediately obvious.
Finally, faulty hardware, outdated software, and TV deficiencies can be likely causes.

Reasons for no TV signal on Smart TV

satellite problem

Resetting or turning off the power has made a significant contribution to the world of electronics.
Our satellite dishes and cable boxes get overloaded with data from time to time, preventing them from working properly.

Wrong cable connection

Some consumers immediately assume that their TVs are at fault when this happens. They act in this way without even considering other scenarios.

When the input source is incorrect, users are the first and most likely to encounter the “no signal” problem.
You wouldn’t be able to watch cable if your TV was set to input two and you were set to input 1.
This is because your cable is located or connected to the wrong source or input.

Cable or antenna problem

Even our wires, ports on our devices and antennas have a lifespan.
In order to provide us with the service we need, cables are used to connect TVs.
Over time, they deteriorate and break.
You should frequently inspect your cables, TV ports, and similar components.
This may be the result of improper cable attachment.
There may be some unfinished business that prevents them from creating content.

weather problems

The antenna should be used while watching TV the old fashioned way.
Because of the superior quality of service provided by cable satellites, some businesses use them.
They are not safe despite the harsh weather. This is one of the causes of the “TV says no signal but cable box is on” error that you see on the screen.

How to fix a TV that says no signal but cable box is on

Check all connections and cables
Restart cable box and TV
Check your TV’s input source
Check for HDCP Errors
Check if the TV box is on
Check your TV’s input
Update your TV software
Reset your TV and reset your cable box.
Contact support center
Check for service outages

1. Check all connections and cables.

Cable boxes now use HDMI cables to carry the TV’s audio and video signal. Your TV may display a “No Signal”message due to a weak or poor quality HDMI connection. Make sure the cable is fully connected to the correct port.

Since signal loss is the main cause of the No Signal error, check the connections of each cable box to your TV.

Make sure neither end of the connector on your cable box is twisted or damaged if it uses HDMI.
If so, get gold-plated HDMI cables such as the Belkin Ultra HD.

Use a dry cloth or earphone to check the ports and remove any dust or debris that may be present.
Check if it supports high bitrate and 4K audio.
Cables and wires, including those that power the set-top box and TV, should be replaced in the event of a breakdown.
You can also do this if your digital TV is constantly losing signal.

Change the HDMI port

The no signal notification may be caused by a broken HDMI port. Because smart TVs come with a plethora of HDMI ports, you have plenty of options for connecting your cable box.

Each port has a unique number.
In addition, you will see one port labeled as HDMI ARC. This port should not be used because it primarily connects the TV to a home theater system or soundbar.
Alternatively, you can test the ports by connecting the TV to another gadget, such as a Blu-ray or DVD player.

Replace HDMI cable.

Sometimes a bad HDMI cable may cause the TV to display a “No Signal”message.

Even if your cable box is turned on, a broken HDMI cable will prevent signals from being sent to your TV.
A broken cable can only be fixed by replacing it.
By connecting the HDMI cable to another working device, such as a DVD or Blu-ray player, you can test it.
If the problem is in the cable, you need to install a new one. Make sure the cable you buy is original and from a trusted seller.

2. Restart your cable box and TV.

Restarting your cable box is one of the easiest fixes for the No Signal issue. Your cable box works similarly to a computer, so a quick reboot can often fix this and other minor issues.

Unplug the cable box from the socket.
Ideally, wait 60 seconds.
Reconnect the cable box to the wall socket.
To check if there is a signal on your TV, turn on your cable box.
If it is fixed behind a wall, you must disconnect and reconnect the cable box using the circuit breaker.
Now check if this fixes the “TV says no signal but cable box is on” issue or not.

3. Check your TV’s input source.

The cable set-top box is not connected to your TV’s input mode, which is another reason for no signal on your TV.

The inputs can be changed until you see the TV.
To access the inputs, press the enter button on the TV remote.
Use the arrow keys or the enter button and double check each entry.
Now check if this fixes the “TV says no signal but cable box is on” issue or not.

4. Check for HDCP Errors

High-bandwidth digital content protection is known as HDCP. Basically, it is a cable standard that prohibits the privacy of movies or TV shows.

If your streaming or cable device is not HDCP compliant, you may experience one of the following issues: HDCP Error or Non-HDCP Output. This error causes your TV to show “No Signal”, a gray or blank screen.

Investing in an HDCP compliant cable is the safest and most efficient course of action.
Buying quality cables can cost more, but it’s still preferable to fix this problem.
Another option is to purchase an HDMI splitter. Make sure the HDMI splitters also work with your cable box.

5. Check if the TV box is on

A power issue is also indicated by a “No Signal”notification on the screen. Check if your cable box or TV is turned on.

When it is on, a green light should be visible.
The red light on your cable box indicates standby, so you need to turn on the tuner if you see it.
In this case, the notification “No signal”will appear on the screen.

6. Check TV antenna signal

The TV may display “No Signal” due to a poor input source. Your cable box and TV must have the correct input to work properly.

Use the remote control to activate the input source.
Press the Source button on the remote control after turning on the TV.
Select your preferred input method.
Most cable boxes use HDMI 1 or 2 to connect to your TV.
Set-top boxes and cable boxes should not be connected to HDMI ARC as this port is only compatible with audio equipment such as soundbars and home theater systems.

Change the input source without using the remote control.

Press the MENU button on the side or bottom of the TV after turning it on.
To access the source option, use the volume button.
Select the desired input source by pressing the menu button.

7. Update your TV software

It’s important to remember that your TV must be up to date for any streaming devices you use to function properly. Most smart TVs need to be updated to support apps.

Outdated software affects the entire system (like Roku, Samsung, and Sony TV), not just your TV apps, let alone the most basic operations. Using outdated software always leads to problems.

Software updates for your TV can often be found in the settings menu.
Selecting “About this TV”or “About this TV”will take you to the general settings.
By selecting Software Update or Check for Updates, you can update your TV.
Now check if this fixes the “TV says no signal but cable box is on” issue or not.

8. Reset your TV and cable TV settings.

Resetting by unplugging the power cord (Soft Reset)

Turn off smart TV
Disconnect the power cord from the wall outlet.
Wait a full 60 seconds. This will help your TV clear the charge on the capacitor.
Plug the power cord back into the wall outlet immediately.
Power on the TV and see if it solves the TV says no signal but cable box is on.

Resetting using the TV menu (Sof Reset)

The HOME button on the remote must be pressed.
Click on settings. In the settings, click “About”.
Select Reload.
When the TV restarts, check if this solves the problem of no signal in Smart TV.

Resetting with the remote control (hardware reset)

Turn on the TV with the remote control.
Go to the General settings of your TV.
In the general settings, find the option “reset to original settings”.
Click Ok to start resetting your TV.

Your TV will automatically turn off and on again.
Now check if the problem with no signal on this TV is fixed.

9. Contact the support center

If none of these suggestions work for you, you may need specialist help. Report your problem to the cable company’s customer service department.

Tell them about the conditions under which you experienced this problem and the troubleshooting methods you tried. If necessary, they may send someone or ask you to try something else, in particular for your cable company.

After getting help from a service center, check if this fixes the problem “TV reports no signal, but cable box is on.”

10. Check for service outages

Call your cable provider if you are still not getting a signal. Ask if there are any problems in your area and how long it will take to fix them.

If there is a failure after the call ends, you should wait until the service is restored. Watch something online or something else to pass the time until the glitch is fixed.

Reasons why your TV’s HDMI port isn’t working

If your TV displays a no signal message, it cannot receive signals from an external input device. There can be several reasons for this;

The chipset and graphics drivers may be out of date.
Your TV will not receive signals unless you switch input sources.
Plug in the HDMI wire in a small space and unplug the power cable because the device or your TV may take a little longer to read the HDMI signal.
Choosing the wrong HDMI settings, or possibly choosing the wrong HDMI cable.
Only HDMI type A cable can connect non-HDMI device. Even in this case, the amplifier may fail.
Ports can be corrupted in some way. If you can’t see it due to minor damage, see a professional before connecting the HDMI cable.

Conclusion

A cable box is often blamed when your TV shows a no signal message. Even if you think the cable box is on, you just have to make sure.

This “No signal but cable box is on”error indicates that movies and TV shows cannot be viewed through your ISP. Follow all the solutions above to fix this issue. If none of the solutions work, it’s time to buy a new smart TV.

FAQ

Why is my cable box saying no signal?

If your TV is not receiving a signal from your set-top box, the TV screen will display a “No Signal”, “No Source”, or “No Input”warning. This often happens because the set-top box is turned off, the TV is not properly connected, or the TV is set to the wrong input.

Why is my cable showing no signal?

Check the cable connections between your video device or receiver and your TV. Change the channel or try a different movie or input method. A weak signal may have been received. You may need to contact your service provider for additional assistance with signal amplification if your TV has a cable or satellite set-top box.

How to solve the problem with the Spectrum TV when it says no signal?

Sending an update signal to the spectrum receiver usually solves most problems. After unplugging the power cord from the receiver and waiting at least 60 seconds before plugging it back in, you can also try to restart it. After the receiver has had at least 20 minutes to fully recover, turn it back on.

What does the absence of a signal on the spectrum mean?

Your “No Signal”notification is most likely the result of a setup or antenna problem, unless it’s the result of selecting the wrong source or input. In most cases, “blocks on the screen”or the occasional “No Signal”message are signs of reception problems.