Troubleshooting graphics card issues in Windows

Are you having video problems when trying to play a game? Maybe your screen goes blank for a second or two? If so, here is how to troubleshoot the graphics card in your Windows-based computer.

If you are currently experiencing issues with the graphics on your computer, it may be due to a problem with your graphics card. You can take a few steps to diagnose the issue and resolve the problem.

Identifying the symptoms

Before attempting any troubleshooting steps, it’s essential to identify the symptoms you are experiencing. Common issues include:

• Odd patterns or colors appear on the screen.
• The system freezes or restarts when running graphics-intensive applications.
• No display at all or an incorrect resolution.
• Games or applications struggle to run smoothly.
• Messages indicating problems with the graphics driver.
• Once you’ve noted the symptoms, you can proceed to pinpoint the cause.

Check connections and hardware

Begin with the basics. Ensure that your graphics card is securely seated in its PCIe slot and that all power connectors are correctly attached. Examine your graphics card for any visible damage. If there is damage, it may need to be replaced. Handling your computer components with care and avoiding physical damage is crucial.

If you can, try the following:

• Reseat the graphics card: Turn off your computer, unplug it, and carefully remove the graphics card. Then, reinsert it into the slot, ensuring it is locked in place.
• Check cables: Inspect the cables connecting the graphics card to the monitor. Replace any damaged cables.
• Monitor functionality: Test the monitor with another computer or use another monitor with your computer to rule out display issues.

Update graphics drivers

Outdated or corrupted drivers can lead to several graphics-related issues. It's important to ensure that your graphics card drivers are up to date. There are two (2) ways of updating your graphics drivers: Download from the manufacturer's website or use Device Manager. To obtain the latest drivers, refer to the manufacturer's website first, and then use Device Manager as a secondary source.

Via the manufacturer’s website

You can download the latest drivers directly from the manufacturer’s website for more control over installation options. Keep in mind that manufacturers may release updated drivers after Microsoft releases its monthly updates.

Via Device Manager

1. Right-click on the Start button to bring up the Power User menu.
2. From the context menu that appears, left-click on Device Manager.
3. Left-click on Display adapters to expand it.
4. Right-click on your graphics card and select Properties.
5. Select the Driver tab and click Update Driver.

Roll back drivers

If problems started after a recent driver update, rolling back to a previous version might resolve the issue. To roll back a driver inside of Device Manager:

1. Right-click on the Start button to bring up the Power User menu.
2. From the context menu that appears, left-click on Device Manager.
3. Left-click on Display adapters to expand it.
4. Right-click on your graphics card and select Properties.
5. Select the Driver tab and click Roll Back Driver if the option is available.

Adjust graphics settings

Misconfigured graphics settings in your applications or Windows can sometimes lead to performance issues. To adjust settings:

• Apps: Open your game or application and access its graphics settings.
• Windows: Right-click on the Desktop and select Display settings.

Reduce the resolution and lower the graphics quality to see if performance improves.

Check for Windows Updates

Missing or pending Windows Updates can cause performance issues. Ensure you are running the latest version:

1. Left-click on the Start button to bring up the Start menu.
2. In the list of pinned apps on the Start menu, left-click on Settings (gear icon).
3. In the left-hand column, left-click on Windows Update.

Install any available updates, as they may contain critical fixes.

Test your GPU

Using a graphics card stress testing tool, you can test your graphics card and identify potential issues. This will help you determine whether the problem lies with the card or another component of your computer.

The Ultimate Boot CD (UBCD) is an excellent diagnostic tool that includes a video memory stress test. All you have to do is download the latest ISO file and burn it to a CD/DVD or use Rufus to create a bootable USB drive.

You may need to adjust some settings in your motherboard's BIOS to ensure the UBCD boots correctly. The UBCD is built on a Linux platform, so you may need to disable secure boot and UEFI boot features temporarily..

Diagnose computer hardware issues with the Ultimate Boot CD

Create custom installation media with Rufus

While testing your graphics card, it is essential to monitor its temperature. High temperatures can cause issues with the card, so it's critical to monitor it closely and ensure it doesn't overheat. You may need to take additional steps to cool it down if it is. Most graphics card testing tools will include the ability to monitor the clock speed and temperature.

Here are some free graphics testing tools:

• FurMark - FurMark is a popular choice for stress-testing your graphics card. It's designed to push your GPU to its limits and help you identify any potential stability issues. With FurMark, you can customize your testing parameters, track your GPU's temperature, and clock speed in real-time.
• MSI Afterburner - MSI Afterburner is a popular overclocking tool, but it also includes a built-in GPU stress test. This software is handy for gamers who want to optimize their graphics settings for a specific game. With MSI Afterburner, you can monitor your GPU's clock speed, temperature, and fan speed while running a stress test.
• Heaven Benchmark - Heaven Benchmark is another popular benchmarking tool designed to stress test your graphics card. This software is handy for users who want to see how their GPU performs under different conditions. With Heaven Benchmark, you can customize your testing parameters and track your GPU's temperature and clock speed in real-time.
• MSI Kombuster - Optimize your gaming PC's performance with MSI Kombustor, the ultimate stress test for your graphics card. With MSI Kombuster, you can use the preset testing parameters or customize your own. You can monitor your GPU's clock speed, temperature, GPU load, and GPU power. Note: MSI Kombuster only works with NVidia-based graphics cards.

Troubleshooting graphics card issues can be a straightforward process if you take a structured approach. Start by identifying the symptoms, checking physical connections, updating drivers, adjusting settings, and utilizing graphics testing tools. If, after all these steps, you’re still facing problems, consider testing the card in another system. By methodically addressing potential issues, you can restore the functionality of your graphics card and enjoy all the graphics-intensive applications and games your system has to offer.