There are several ways you can check to see if your graphics card is working properly. You should begin by making sure your graphics card is properly installed in the motherboard, and all its related components, such as power cables, are connected correctly. Once you have ensured everything is in proper working order, there are several methods you can use to evaluate the performance of your graphics card.
1. Use a Benchmark Test
Benchmark tests are designed to measure how well a system performs certain tasks, such as playing games or running specific programs. There are several benchmarking software options that can be used to check the performance of your graphics card, including 3DMark, Passmark, and Furmark. Depending on the software you choose, these tests can measure the speed, consistency, and overall performance of the graphics card.
2. Update Drivers
Outdated drivers can cause major issues with your graphics card and reduce its performance. Updating your graphics card drivers regularly ensures you are using the latest version, with all the bug fixes and improvements made by the manufacturer. You can either manually download new driver packages from the manufacturer’s website, or you can use third-party tools like Driver Booster to automatize the process.
3. Check the Temperature
Modern graphics cards are built to withstand high temperatures while running, however they can still suffer from overheating due to faulty hardware or incorrect fan settings. If your graphics card is running too hot, it can cause performance issues or even permanent damage. You can use specialized programs such as GPU-Z and MSI Afterburner to monitor the temperature of your graphics card.
4. Check for Physiological Damage
Physical damage to your graphics card can lead to major issues and may even require a replacement. Make sure there are no visible signs of damage, such as bent pins or cracked circuits, as this could be preventing it from working correctly. Additionally, check for dust build up on the internal fan and heat sink, as this can severely limit airflow and overheat the card.
5. Upgrade Your Power Supply Unit
If you are experiencing frequent crashes or lags during gaming sessions, check the power supply unit (PSU) for your computer. An inadequate PSU can cause a lack of power to the graphics card, resulting in subpar performance or even permanent damage. To avoid this, make sure your PSU meets the recommended wattage for your graphics card.
By following these steps, you will be able to determine whether your graphics card is functioning properly or not. If you have any additional concerns or questions, you can contact the technical support team of the graphics card manufacturer.