I recently found an old Gigabyte Brix that I used as a Windows Server, and I'm looking to repurpose it as a home Pi-hole and print server. I installed Debian on it, but it won't boot unless there's a monitor attached. It used to work fine with Windows Server without a screen, so this seems like a hardware or BIOS issue. I've searched various solutions but haven't found one that avoids using a dummy monitor plug.
My issue matches what I found in this discussion, but I've tried all suggested boot parameters like "nomodeset", "text", and "console" in grub, and it seems like the system doesn't get past grub since there's no boot log. I've also checked the boot settings and secure boot doesn't seem to help. Is there any way to resolve this? Would trying a different distro be worth it? I feel like I've hit a wall here.
Edit: I fixed the issue by booting in legacy CSM mode.
3 Answers
I get it, it feels frustrating! Have you checked the migration page? Some great community tips are available there. Also, consider testing other distros to see if they handle the boot process differently. It might save you some headaches in the long run.
Honestly, while the dummy monitor dongles work, if you’re determined to get it going without one, check out this guide I found. It might offer some insights that could help you: [link](https://www.shaunfreeman.name/gigabyte-brix-bxbt-1900-not-booting-without-monitor-on-ubuntu-minimal-16-04/). Sometimes there are tweaks that can make a difference!
It sounds like you're dealing with a classic BIOS quirk. You might want to consider a dummy monitor plug; they’re a cheap and simple solution. It could just make your life easier! I found a couple of options here: Displayport [link](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071CGCTMY) or HDMI [link](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B5XVQVJ9/). They usually resolve these types of issues without much hassle.
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