new TV won't recognize cable box

I bought a new Vizio 50" TV to replace my 12 year old TV. When I hook up the cable box to HDMI input on TV, I  get an error message.   

 Sorry, something wrong, tighten your cables, etc.   It knows the cable box is there but it won't work.

Plenty of resets and refreshes (from google)

If the HDMI input is empty I get a generic message (no connection) which makes sense

All the HDMI inputs work on the TV. I tested with DVD player and firestick

Should I bring in the box for a new one or is there anything else to try at home before I do?????