1. Check your connection:
The first step in troubleshooting errors related to the graphics card is to check your connection. Look at any cables and determine if they are firmly connected. Ensure that the monitor cable is securely plugged into both the computer and the monitor. If there is a dedicated power supply for the graphics card, make sure it is correctly connected.
2. Check the drivers:
The second step in troubleshooting errors related to the graphics card is to check the drivers. Open up the Device Manager and select the Display Adapter option. Right-click on the listed GPU and select “Update Driver”. This will update the driver to the most recent version available. If no newer version is available, ensure that you have the latest version of the driver installed. Additionally, check to make sure that the correct adapter is being used for the graphics card.
3. Check settings:
The settings in the GPU control panel can also be a cause for errors. Open up the control panel and look for settings such as resolution and gamma. Make sure that these are set to the recommended values. You should also check the image quality settings such as anti-aliasing and Anisotropic filtering. These should be set to match the requirements of the games and applications you are using.
4. Scan for viruses:
It is possible for viruses to infect your graphics card and cause errors. Run a scan with a reliable antivirus program such as AVG or McAfee. Make sure the definitions are up to date before running the scan.
5. Uninstall/reinstall:
If checking the connection and settings do not solve the issue, the next step is to uninstall and reinstall the graphics card. To do this, open the Device Manager again and right-click on the GPU. Select Uninstall. Once complete, restart the computer. After the reboot, reinstall the drivers for the graphics card. This should correct any errors that may have been caused by a corrupt driver.
6. Hardware reset:
If the software reset did not work, the next step is to try a hardware reset. This can be done by removing the graphics card from the system and then reinstalling it. Make sure to ground yourself beforehand and wear an anti-static wrist strap. Disconnect any cables attached to the GPU, remove the card, dust it off, and then reinstall it. Reconnect the cables and boot up your system.
7. Overclocking:
Overclocking the graphics card can cause instability and errors. To fix this, enter the BIOS and reset the overclocking settings. Alternatively, you can use the software provided by the manufacturer to reset the settings.
8. Underclocking:
Underclocking the graphics card can also cause errors. To fix this, enter the BIOS and reset the underclocking settings. Alternatively, you can use the software provided by the manufacturer to reset the settings.
9. Heat:
Heat can be a common cause of errors related to graphics cards. If the GPU is running too hot, it will start to wear down faster and cause errors. To check the temperature, download a program such as SpeedFan or HWMonitor. These programs will show the temperature of the CPU and GPU in real time. If the GPU is running too hot, you may need to add additional fans to the case or replace the existing ones if they are worn out. You could also replace the thermal paste and repaste the GPU.
10. PSU:
Another common cause of errors related to graphics cards is an inadequate power supply. When an insufficient amount of power is supplied to the GPU, it can cause instability and errors. To fix this, make sure your PSU is powerful enough for your graphics card. The wattage listed on the box of the GPU should be taken as a minimum recommendation.