Specifications

Adapter and Display Troubleshooting
939
Troubleshooting Video Cards and Drivers
Problem
Display works in DOS but not in Windows.
Solution
If you have an acceptable picture quality in MS-DOS mode (system boot) but no picture in Windows,
most likely you have an incorrect or corrupted video driver installed in Windows. Boot Windows
9x/Me in Safe Mode (which uses a VGA driver), boot Windows 2000/XP in Enable VGA mode, or
install the VGA driver and restart Windows. If Safe Mode or VGA Mode works, get the correct driver
for the video card and reinstall.
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 run at its default speed.
If you have adjusted the speed of AGP/PCI slots in the BIOS setup program, restart the system, start
the BIOS setup program, and reset the AGP and PCI slots to run at the normal speed.
Problem
Can’t replace built-in video card with add-on PCI or AGP video card.
Solution
Check with the video card and system vendor for a list of acceptable replacement video cards. Try
another video card with a different chipset. Check the BIOS or motherboard for jumper or configura-
tion settings to disable built-in video. Place the add-on card in a different PCI slot. Be sure the card is
fully inserted into the PCI or AGP slot.
Problem
Can’t select desired color depth and resolution combination.
Solution
Verify that the card is properly identified in Windows and that the card’s memory is working prop-
erly. 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.
Problem
Can’t select desired refresh rate.
Solution
Verify that the card and monitor are properly identified in Windows. Obtain updated drivers for the
card and monitor.
Problem
Can’t adjust OpenGL or Direct3D (DirectX) settings.
Solution
Install the graphic card or chipset vendor’s latest drivers instead of using the drivers included with
Microsoft Windows. Standard Microsoft drivers often don’t include 3D or other advanced dialog
boxes.
Chapter 15
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