Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Remember also that many of the problems you might encounter with modern video ad-
apters and displays are related to the drivers that control these devices rather than to the
hardware. Be sure you have the latest and proper drivers before you attempt to have the
hardware repaired; a solution might already be available.
Troubleshooting Video Cards and Drivers
Use the following suggestions to help you solve problems with your display hardware.
The display works when booting and in the BIOS Setup, but not in Windows.
Solution
If you have an acceptable picture while booting or when in the BIOS Setup but no picture
in Windows, most likely you have an incorrect or corrupted video driver installed. Boot
Windows in either Safe Mode (which uses the Microsoft supplied vga.sys driver) or En-
able VGA Mode (which uses the current driver with VGA resolution settings). If Safe
Mode or VGA Mode works, get a correct or updated driver for the video card and rein-
stall.
If you have overclocked your card with a manufacturer-supplied or third-party utility, you
might have set the speed too high. Restart the system in Safe Mode and reset the card to
runatitsdefaultspeed.IfyouhaveadjustedthespeedofAGP/PCI/PCIeslotsintheBIOS
Setup program, restart the system, start the BIOS Setup program, and reset these slots to
run at the normal speed.
Can't select desired color depth and resolution combination.
Solution
VerifythatthecardisproperlyidentifiedinWindowsandthatthecard'smemoryiswork-
ing properly. Use diagnostic software provided by the video card or chipset maker to test
the card's memory. If the hardware is working properly, check for new drivers. Use the
vendor's drivers rather than the ones provided with Windows.
Can't select desired refresh rate.
Solution
Verifythatthevideoadapterandthemonitorhavethelatestdriversinstalledandareprop-
erly identified in Windows. If necessary, obtain and install updated drivers for the adapter
and display.
Can't adjust OpenGL or Direct3D (DirectX) settings.
Solution
