M1 Mac Mini display dropouts

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Level 1

8 points

M1 Mac Mini display dropouts

I have an M1 Mac Mini connected to a BenQ EW3270U display. Every so often the video cuts out and the screen goes black for 3-5 seconds. This happens at irregular intervals ranging from 30 seconds to several minutes (but it rarely works for longer than 10 minutes without happening at least once).

I have had this monitor for a couple of years, have used it with other Macs and have not had this issue. I am currently using it with a (USB-C connected) Intel MBP as well as the Mini, and have no problems with the MBP, only the Mini.

The Mini is running Monterey (12.0.1). The monitor is connected via HDMI. I have tried replacing the HDMI cable and connecting via USB as well - the problem persists.

The issue doesn't seem to be related to activity or uptime, as I have noticed occasions where it happens frequently for a while shortly after startup, as well as those where it happens infrequently after a couple of hours of nonstop use. Restarting doesn't seem to mitigate the issue either.

Of note: when it happens when I'm on a video call (Zoom), the other folks on the call report that my (USB-A connected) video camera drops out as well, so I guess it's not strictly a problem with the video output.

Anyone else have this issue? Any other suggestions?

Thanks!

Posted on Dec 12, 2021 11:55 PM

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Answer 1

hcsitas

Level 6

13,970 points

Dec 13, 2021 12:34 AM in response to geekonomics

Any 3rd party malware-virus protection/performance enhancement software? What other peripherals are connected to the M1 and BenQ ports? Try disabling gimmicky settings on the BenQ like FreeSync/Game/Smart/Green/Energy Saver etc.

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Answer 2

geekonomics Author

Level 1

8 points

Dec 13, 2021 4:33 PM in response to hcsitas

I use Bitdefender antivirus/malware, but have tried shutting off all of the real-time protection - no difference. I've gone through all of the configurable menu items on the BenQ and can't find anything that looks suspect - I have never used any special features or enhancements, and while there are some settings that can't be disabled (i.e. I have to choose a mode), I've tried varying these with no luck as well.

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