"Analog output" Nvidia GeForce FX5200 fault?

[joanp]

I returned from vacation and my computer screen was black with white letters: 1:Analog output. Cannot display this video mode.

I can see a screen in Safe Mode.

I have tried to update the device driver, to uninstall, reinstall, download new, to use original driver from Dell Resource Disk. Everything I can think of.

Three times I have run an operating system "repair" (using a Windows Home Edition with service pack 2 from Dell) I can get to the desktop but the display isn't right, so something continues to be wrong with the driver.

If I try to change the driver at that point, I end up back where I started. This has happened too many times already.

I am obviously trying to avoid reinstaling the operating system because I have tons of programs and files on the computer.

Thanks, in advance, for your suggestions. I'm at the end of my tether and, of course, working on deadlines.

 

[Nodsu]

Try different resolutions/refresh rates in the display properties?

 

[Tedster]

restore to last known good driver.

It sounds like you had an update that wasn't good.
turn off install updates without your permission or just allow critical windows updates only - not hardware.

with hardware, the rule of thumb is, if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

 

[joanp]

Thanks but I did also try system restore and to restore to last good setting. Honestly I had to give up and take it to a local shop. So sad.