Troubleshoot Common Video Card Problems With These Simple Fixes
Video card problems may pop up from time to time and can ruin the visual experience on your computer. Since screens are now the lifeblood of productivity and entertainment, we understand the frustration when you come across a problem! Read on to follow our suggested troubleshooting steps for some of the most common video card problems.
Symptoms of Video Card Problems & Their Fixes
1. No Display After Installing Graphics Card
Losing a display after installing a graphics card is one of the most common video card problems. Should your screen go dark, you will need to check if the card is properly seated inside your computer. Make sure all of its connections to the motherboard are tight and check that the latch is set.
If the card is installed correctly, check with a professional in case you need to disable the video card bundled with the motherboard. This may require you to enable the new card in the Basic Input Output System (BIOS). The BIOS regulates what devices are on initially on your computer and helps install operating systems on top of it. It’s best you work with an expert so you know to configure this part correctly.
2. Letters are Too Large
Large letters mean your monitor isn’t set to the right resolution. On your desktop, right click and go to Properties and then Display Settings. Check the Screen Resolution drop down and look for the recommended settings. This should fix this issue which is one of the less common video card problems.
3. Video Card Problems Caused by High Temperatures
Another common problem with video cards is due to high temperatures. If you notice graphic issues, it’s entirely possible your card may be overheating. When this happens, take a fan and blow the wind in the direction of your computer or switch on the air-conditioning. Also, make sure nothing is blocking your computer’s vents.
4. Distorted Letters or Characters
If you notice distorted letters or characters, first check if the garbled letters are happening only in one program. If it is, you will need to remove and reinstall the application. However, if it is happening everywhere, you will need to install the latest drivers for your graphics card. Search for its manufacturer online and download the drivers from the website. Should this fail, it’s possible the problem is with the font files. If that’s the case, you will need to repair or reinstall the operating system.
5. Colored or Black and White Screen Glitches
Black and white glitches warn of a possible graphics card failure. You need to reseat the card and check if it is properly installed. Overheating can also cause the problem so make sure your computer is in a cool, dry place. Remove any obstruction near its vents. If these steps don’t solve the problem, it’s a sign your card is failing and needs to be replaced.
6. Freezing While Playing a Game
It’s possible your video card is not up to par if you notice a game freezing. First, try lowering the graphics setting of the game. If the game you’re playing is new and your graphics card is dated, you need to check to make sure the card meets the minimum system requirements. Video card problems of this nature can typically be fixed with an upgrade.
7. Error Codes Involving Graphics
You will reinstall drivers for your card when an error code flashes on your screen mentioning drivers are missing. This may also happen if the drivers aren’t installed properly, aren’t installed at all or the device isn’t working properly. You can solve this problem by going to the manufacturer’s website or popping in the CD that came with the graphics card.
Here’s Michael Cooper on how to troubleshoot graphics card problems:
Video card problems may be stress-inducing if you don’t know where the problem is coming from. Look at the symptoms above and read through the fixes for each to fix the problem in no time.
Do you have problems with graphics from time to time? Let us know about any other video card problems you’ve experienced in the comments below.
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