Video Driver Problems

[kimbo.ati]

I updated my ATI drivers to 5.7 and this is what happened after the reboot.
I reset my computer everything was fine i logged in and then i guess when the drivers opened the computer screen refreshed with these wierd pixels.

 

[Rik]

The easy way to stop that is to press f8 just before windows starts to load and select safe mode, then remove all graphics drivers and reboot.

 

[kimbo.ati]

Its not that simple mate. I think my graphics card Is broken some how.
It does that just after a format even before any drivers are installed.
I managed to fix this problem but it took just over an hour of reseting to fix it. I posted to ask if anyone knew why it was happening it cant be software becuase it does that even after a format. All the drivers are up-to-date and my previous graphics card worked no problems.

Could something be blown?

 

[Rik]

Sorry, had no idea how much u knew.
You could pull the thing out and have a very close look at it. Look for poor soldering quality and in particular look at the surface mount components for any cracks.
Sometimes a surface mount capacitor can blow but a crack in it is often the only sign of it.
I work in the electronics trade so if there is any components that u r not sure about please feel free to ask and i will do my best to help.

 

[kimbo.ati]

ok cool i will look really close its working fine now no performance issues but whenever i format i have to swap graphics cards to install windows properly.

i dont think i will pull it out and look at it becuase my case is very messy with all the fans and fan controls i will just leave it in.
My case below. I have a 3rd party cooler. can you see anything wrong in the picture?

 

[Rik]

If u think thats a mess u should see mine hehe. U obviously believe in ott cooling as do I so thats not the problem for sure. I notice there are a few capacitors on the edge of your card, could be worth giving them a little gentle wiggle to see if any feel a bit loose as sometimes a leg on that type can become detached internally, but be careful, be delicate. Hope that helps Rik.

 

[kimbo.ati]

ok thanks, if one is loose what should i do ?

im upgrading in about 5months anyways but i want ot be able to sell my computer on without graphics problems

thanks heaps

 

[Rik]

If there is one loose as i described then it will require replacement. Also, have a look at the tops of those capacitors to see if they have domed. The tops should be flat but if u find any that are not then they have blown and will require replacing.
Capacitors are not expensive but you will require some soldering skill to change them, if u r not sure then find someone that can do it.
Also, what wattage psu do u have in that system?

 

[kimbo.ati]

ok i will make sure but i probably wont fix the problem i will just wait to upgrade and sell my computer without the card it in. I am running my whole computer on a thermaltake purepower 420W

 

[Rik]

Thats a really good psu so that isnt the problem.

 

[kimbo.ati]

What i will do is when i next have some free time (its getting late now) i will check for any problems and reply agian A.S.A.P

thankyou for the help