If your video card stops working, there are a few steps you can take to try and fix the problem. If you’ve already checked the connections and hardware for any obvious issues like loose components or damaged parts, you may need to do a bit of troubleshooting. Here are some common steps you can take to diagnose and potentially fix a faulty video card.
1. Check Device Manager
The first step is to check the Device Manager in Windows. This can tell you if the video card driver is installed properly or if there are any errors with the device. To get to the Device Manager, right click on the Start button and select ‘Device Manager’.
This will display all the devices that are connected to the computer. Look for the video card under the ‘Display Adapters’ heading. If you see a yellow exclamation mark next to it, then this means there could be a problem with the driver.
2. Update the Driver
If the video card has a yellow exclamation mark next to it, then it could mean that the driver needs updating. You can update the driver either manually or automatically. To manually update the driver, you will need to visit the manufacturer’s website, download the latest driver and then install it on your computer.
Alternatively, you can use the automatic update tool that comes with Windows. To do this, go to the ‘Driver’ tab in the Device Manager, then follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Roll Back the Driver
If the driver has recently been updated, then you may want to try rolling it back to the previous version. This can be done either manually or using the Windows automatic update tool. To do this manually, you will need to visit the manufacturer’s website, download the previous version of the driver and then install it.
To roll back using the Windows automatic update tool, open the Device Manager, click on the ‘Driver’ tab, then select the option to ‘Roll Back Driver’.
4. Check The Power Supply
If the video card isn’t receiving enough power, then it won’t be able to run properly. To check the power supply, you will need to open up the computer case and look inside. Make sure that the power cable is securely connected to the power supply and to the video card.
You can also check the amount of power that the power supply is providing by using a multimeter. This will require you to have knowledge of electricity and should only be attempted by someone who is familiar with such matters.
5. Replace The Video Card
A last resort would be to replace the video card entirely. Most newer computers use PCI Express video cards and these can easily be replaced with the same type of card. Before you buy a new one, make sure you check the size and specifications of the card, as well as the compatibility with your system.
Once you have bought the new card, install it into the computer case and make sure all the necessary connections are secure. Then, install the driver either manually (as detailed above) or using the Windows automatic update tool.
Hopefully, one of the above steps has fixed the issue and your video card is now working correctly. If not, then you may need to take your computer to a professional repair shop or contact the manufacturer for further technical support.