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How to Diagnose Video Card Problems
aka Graphics Adapter Card

These are some symptoms that may be caused by the graphics card. Other components may also cause these same symptoms, check the general diagnosis page for more information.

Symptom

Check
Click on underlined items for further information

It makes a squealing or other loud noise

  • The fan on the graphics card may need to be cleaned or it may be failing. The fan on most cards is not replaceable.

The screen is black and completely blank

  • Check that the monitor is turned on. Most have a light to indicate power and another to indicate that it is receiving a signa;l from the PC.

  • Check that the video cable's connectors are securely and properly fastened to the graphics card and on some models to the monitor.

  • Check that no pins are bent or miossing from the connector.

  • Unplug the PC and make sure the graphics card is securely and properly installed into it's slot.

The display doesn't fit properly on my monitor

OR

The text or resolution is the wrong size

  • The resolution is not set correctly in Windows. Go into the display settings in the Control Panel, and change the resolution settings.

  • The monitor may have controls that allow you to adjust the size and position of the display. Use the monitor's controls to move or resize the display.

  • You may need to install a different or updated driver for your graphics card and/or monitor.

The display seems to flicker

  • Reset the display's refresh rate in the Windows Control Panel. Do not use a refresh rate that is not supported by your monitor or damage may result.

The colors don't look right

  • The color depth is not set correctly in Windows. Go into the display settings in the Control Panel, and change the resolution settings.

  • You may need to install a different or updated driver for your graphics card and/or monitor.

The display is completely unreadable

  • The color depth and/or resolution is not set correctly in Windows. Go into the display settings in the Control Panel, and change the resolution settings.

  • You may need to install a different or updated driver for your graphics card and/or monitor






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