How to enable DDC/CI on your monitor
DDC/CI must be enabled in your monitor’s on-screen menu (OSD) for hardware brightness control. Here’s what to look for and common names.
Most monitors ship with DDC/CI enabled, but some models have it off by default — or it gets turned off after a factory reset.
DDC/CI is usually a toggle inside the monitor’s on‑screen display (OSD).
Where to find it
- Look in OSD menus like: Settings, System, Other, or General.
- Common names: “DDC/CI”, “DDC”, “Monitor Control”, “External Control”, or “PC Control”.
- Enable it, then power-cycle the monitor (off/on) if your app still can’t detect it.
If it’s enabled but still flaky
- Try a direct cable (DP/HDMI) instead of a dock/adapter to rule out DDC pass‑through issues.
- Some monitors respond better after opening the OSD menu once (it can “wake” the control channel).
- If your chain blocks DDC, use GPU dimming for that display.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
What does DDC/CI stand for?
DDC/CI is a monitor control channel that lets a PC send commands like brightness to a monitor, similar to the on-screen display controls.
Where is the DDC/CI toggle usually located?
Commonly under Settings, System, Others, or Input in the monitor’s OSD. It may be called DDC/CI, Monitor Control, or External Control.
Do all monitors support DDC/CI brightness?
No. Many do, but some expose limited controls or behave inconsistently depending on the input and cable/adapter chain.