I cant get my HDMI link to TV to work - is windows 10 or acer laptop the problem?

I'm trying to link my ACER laptop to an HDMI TV to have access to larger screen for some projects.  I don't know whether the problem is Windows 10 or the ACER, but although I go through all the recommended steps via the control panel absolutely nothing works.  Have tried different ports on the TV and different cables.  Windows recognises the TV as a second monitor, but that's about as far as it goes.  I've had it working with my previous Windows 7 laptop, so am assuming the problem is with the ACER or Windows 10; would appear the port is not activated.  I'm a novice as regards hardware, so any suggestions in words of 1 syllable, please!!