Video Card Problems

The function of a computer video card is to interpret the output demand and accordingly instruct the monitor as to exactly how many tiny dots to illuminate, so that you get the correct graphic image on screen. A video card is also known as a graphics card or display adapter. It acts like a highly energetic and indefatigable source of graphics to generate virtual output. They are available in different types, depending on the formats they support, and accordingly vary in cost. These problems can be irritating as they directly hamper the display abilities of your monitor.

Troubleshooting Your Video Card

The computer display comprises two major hardware parts - a video card and a monitor. The card is installed inside the CPU and is attached to the motherboard, while the monitor is where you are able to see all graphics and text as displayed by the program. In order to function with these devices, Windows takes help of drivers. Most video card problems are a result of faulty, incorrect or missing video drivers. Other than this, the problem could also be due to an improper installation or any other hardware failure.

In case you have recently updated windows, install or upgraded the video card, then the most probable reason for a problem is faulty or missing drivers. These drivers are installed though a CD which comes along with the new one. Also, drivers can be downloaded from the manufacturer's website on the internet. Diagnosing these problems is simple because a malfunction will show signs on the computer screen, which can't go unnoticed.

Common Video Card Problems and Solutions

Problem : The computer screen is completely blank

• Ensure that the computer monitor is switched on. There should be a light on the monitor which indicates that the monitor is receiving power supply from the CPU.
• The connectors of the video cable need to be secured and properly attached to the graphic card for certain computers.
• There should be no bent or broken pins on the video cable connector.
• Check whether the graphics card is properly installed in its slot.

Problem : The screen resolution is faulty or the display is either smaller or larger than the screen size

• There may be a possibility of the screen resolution not set properly in Windows. From the 'control panel' option, select 'display settings' and set the screen resolution as per your need.
• There are certain controls on the monitor which help in adjusting the position and size of display on the screen. Use them to adjust the display.
• There may be a requirement for upgrading your graphics card or installing new drivers for the same.

Problem : The display on the screen is totally unreadable

• It could be a case of the resolution or color depth not set properly in Windows. Click on 'control panel' and select 'display settings', to change or adjust resolution settings.
• You would need to update the graphic card by installing all latest drivers.

Problem : The display flickers

• Go to 'control panel' and reset the 'refresh rate' for the display. A refresh rate which is not supported by the system can lead to this problem.

Problem : Colors appear unnatural and different

• It could be a case of the color depth not set properly in Windows, which can be reset by selecting the 'display settings' option from 'control panel'.
• This could also be an indication to update the card by installing all latest drivers.

Problem : The screen makes a squealing noise

• The fan responsible for cooling the video/graphic card may need cleaning, as most cards come with fans which cannot be replaced.

Troubleshooting your video card using above mentioned instructions should help solve your problem. Since the root cause of most of these problems is a faulty card or lack of necessary drivers, regularly upgrading it should help in keeping most problems at bay. In case the solutions provided do not solve your purpose, get your computer repaired from a professional.