Monitor not being recognized

Hi, my old Dell desktop will not connect to the monitor.

Things to note: Old as dirt by computer time (2 years old)

Monitor WILL connect to my laptop, so problem isn't with it.
VGA connectivity.
The CPU powers on, but will not connect to the monitor.

Troubleshoots:
Hitting it a few times.
Trying a different monitor.
Different VGA cable.
Cleaning it.
Making sure all connections are firm.
Hitting it some more.

Now, I tried getting a DVI, but there's a problem. In all DVI cables I get (this does indeed have a DVI female port in it), there is a small metal piece (if looking at it ( - ), the - part is what I'm talking about. That's not on mine, so it will not fit).

I'll try to post more information. Thank you very much for any help (even if it's supplying a link to where I can buy a compatible DVI cable ;) <3

-Cyril

It seems the monitor port on your tower might be going out. That or your entire video card is going out. Do you have a warranty? If so, you might want to contact Dell. If not, I recommend getting a new graphics card as I don't think the port itself is replaceable. http://www.tigerdirect.com has very good prices.

Thank you very much.

You're welcome.