Graphics Card and GPU Problems
Symptoms:
GPU overheating, PC shuts down
Graphics card not recognized
Installed new graphics card, no display
GPU causing black screen
Graphics card blinking orange light
GPU not detected in Device Manager
If you need help, just contact us and we can assist you.
This page addresses common graphics card and GPU issues that can affect your computer's performance and stability. These problems could be due to hardware failures, driver issues, improper installation, or overheating. Don’t worry—we'll provide you with a complete fix that you can try yourself, completely free. But again, if you’d like professional help from a specialist instead, just contact us.
The Fix Procedures:
Check Physical Connections:
If your screen remains blank even after confirming the GPU is properly seated, consider reviewing our No Display or Black Screen Issues page for additional troubleshooting steps.Power Off: Shut down your computer and unplug the power cord.
Open the Case: Carefully remove the side panel of your computer case.
Verify GPU Seating:
Ensure the graphics card is fully inserted into the PCIe slot.
The locking tab at the end of the slot should be engaged.
Check Power Connectors:
Confirm that all required power connectors (6-pin, 8-pin) are securely connected to the GPU.
The cables should click into place without any gaps.
Inspect for Physical Damage:
Look for any signs of damage on the graphics card, such as burnt components or swollen capacitors.
Check for dust buildup around the GPU and fans.
Test the Graphics Card in Another Slot (If Available):
If your motherboard has multiple PCIe slots, try installing the GPU in a different slot.
This helps determine if the original slot is faulty.
Examine the Power Supply Unit (PSU):
Ensure your PSU provides adequate wattage for your GPU.
Check that the PSU is functioning correctly and supplying power to the GPU.
Reconnect Monitor Cables:
Ensure the monitor cable (HDMI, DisplayPort, DVI) is securely connected to the graphics card's output, not the motherboard's.
Try a different cable or port if available.
Boot Up and Observe Indicators:
Power on the computer.
Graphics Card LEDs:
Some GPUs have indicator lights. A blinking orange light could indicate a problem.
Refer to your GPU's manual for LED status meanings.
Fan Operation:
Verify if the GPU fans are spinning upon startup.
Check BIOS/UEFI Settings:
Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings (commonly by pressing F2, DEL, or ESC during startup).
Navigate to the settings for primary display output.
Ensure that the PCIe slot is selected as the primary graphics adapter, not the onboard graphics.
If updating BIOS settings doesn’t solve the issue, and you suspect an underlying software problem, check our Windows Updates and Operating System Errors page for more system-level fixes.
Update or Reinstall Graphics Drivers:
Safe Mode Boot:
Boot your computer into Safe Mode.
Press F8 or hold Shift while clicking Restart to access advanced startup options.
If you’re experiencing recurring system crashes or blue screens when the GPU is under load, visit our Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) and PC Crashes guide for targeted troubleshooting advice.
Uninstall Old Drivers:
Use a tool like Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) to remove existing graphics drivers completely.
Download Latest Drivers:
Visit the GPU manufacturer's website (NVIDIA or AMD) to download the latest drivers.
Install Drivers:
Install the new drivers and restart your computer.
Check Device Manager:
Press
Win + Xand select Device Manager.Expand Display Adapters.
If the GPU is listed:
Right-click and select Properties to check for any error codes.
If the GPU is not listed or has a warning icon:
The system may not recognize the GPU, indicating a deeper issue.
Monitor GPU Temperatures:
Install a hardware monitoring tool like MSI Afterburner or HWMonitor.
If your computer’s performance remains sluggish even after addressing the GPU’s cooling, explore our Slow Computer and Performance Optimization page for further improvements.
Check the GPU temperatures under load and at idle.
If temperatures are excessively high (above 85°C idle):
Proceed to the next step.
If temperatures are normal:
Overheating may not be the issue.
Improve Cooling:
Clean the GPU:
Power off the PC and remove the GPU.
Use compressed air to clean dust from the heatsink and fans.
Replace Thermal Paste (Advanced):
Only if you're comfortable, replace the thermal paste on the GPU chip.
Enhance Case Airflow:
Ensure case fans are working correctly.
Organize cables to improve airflow inside the case.
Test with Another GPU or PC:
If Possible:
Install your GPU in another working PC to see if the issue persists.
Alternatively, test a different GPU in your PC.
If you’re worried about accessing important files while handling hardware issues, see our Data Recovery and File Retrieval services to secure your information.
Interpret Results:
If your GPU works in another PC:
The issue may be with your motherboard or PSU.
If another GPU works in your PC:
Your original GPU may be faulty.
Check for Firmware Updates:
Visit the GPU manufacturer's website to see if there are any BIOS updates for your graphics card.
Follow their instructions carefully to update.
Look for Error Beep Codes or LED Indicators:
Some motherboards emit beep codes or have diagnostic LEDs.
Refer to your motherboard manual to interpret these signals.
Consider PSU Replacement (If Suspected):
A failing PSU may not supply sufficient power to the GPU.
Test with a known good PSU if possible.
Final Step: Seek Professional Assistance
If none of the above steps resolve the issue, it's time to consult a professional.
Contact us and we'll diagnose and fix the problem promptly.
By following these steps, you can troubleshoot common graphics card and GPU issues affecting your computer. Remember, handling hardware can be delicate—if you're unsure about any step, we're here to help. Don't hesitate to reach out for professional support.