> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.sevenpens.com/drawtab/guides/connecting/connecting-pen-display.md).

# Connecting a pen display

## Overview

Connecting a pen display to a computer can be challenging. This guide explains the fundamentals you need to make it work.

## Connection instructions

You can categorize pen display connections by **which cable carries the video signal**.

Almost always, that cable is either HDMI or USB-C. Instructions for each case are below. I recommend that you <mark style="color:red;">**WATCH BOTH VIDEOS BELOW**</mark>.

* HDMI for video: [Connecting with HDMI](/drawtab/guides/connecting/connecting-pen-display/connecting-pen-display-hdmi.md)
* USB-C for video: [Connecting a pen display with USB-C](/drawtab/guides/connecting/connecting-pen-display/connecting-pen-display-usbc.md)

## Basics

### Fundamental requirements

For a pen display to work correctly, three requirements must be met:

The pen display MUST

* Receive enough **POWER**
* Be able to send **DATA** to your computer
* Receive a **VIDEO SIGNAL** from your computer

From these fundamental requirements, we can explain, plan, and troubleshoot everything about connecting pen displays.

ALL THREE requirements MUST be met to fully use the pen display.

### Connector types

This guide talks about connectors a lot, so you should know what they look like first. Read [Display connector types](/drawtab/guides/pen-displays/display-connector-types.md) before you continue.

### Connection diagrams

Your tablet user manual should contain diagrams that show you exactly how to connect the tablet to your computer. Check those diagrams before you start. Ideally, check them before you buy a pen display.

## Troubleshooting

### "NO SIGNAL": When the pen display does not receive a video signal

After you connect the display, you might see a **NO SIGNAL** message. See [TSG: Pen display shows NO SIGNAL message](/drawtab/troubleshoot/tsg-no-signal.md).

### When the pen display cannot send data to the computer

See [TSG: Tablet driver does not detect tablet](/drawtab/troubleshoot/tsg-tablet-driver-does-not-detect-tablet.md).

### When the pen display does not get enough power

TBD

## Other topics

### What about connecting a pen display to mobile devices?

Go here: [Connecting a pen display to a mobile device](/drawtab/guides/connecting/connecting-pen-display/pen-display-with-mobile-device.md)

### What about wireless connectivity?

No pen displays connect wirelessly. They all require at least one cable to connect to your computer.


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