Undeterministic black second screen [Ubuntu 15.10, Dell Latitude 3340 (hdmi) -> IIyama (vga)]

Problem:

My second screen works most of the time fine, but sometimes it turns to black and is then difficult to get it back working. This behavior seems semi-random, that is why I find it difficult to search for a solution. Also it is important to note that this behavior only seems to happen with my screen and not with projectors for example.

I say semi-random because it often (but not always) happens when I logout/restart/start a new program. These actions also often (again not always) tend to turn the screen on again.

example:

I start my pc up and everything works fine. Then after doing some work for some time:

I start a program/do nothing special/logout/...

and my second screen goes black, saying it does not get any input. Then after repeatedly logging out/in or (un)plugging the HDMI cable it goes back online again. This repeats itself from time to time and drives me crazy, I really do not have a clue what it could be, hope you guys can help me!

Setup:

I have Ubuntu 15.10 running on a dell latitude 3340 with HDMI output and also an IIyama screen with VGA input. I connect my screen with an HDMI to VGA converter.

1 Answer

If the HDMI cable is not the issue, it could also be worth while to upgrade to a more recent video driver.

There should be options for upgrading Your driver here: