Graphics cards are a vital component of any computer and are responsible for rendering the videos and graphics that you view on your computer monitor. Unfortunately, just like any other computer component, graphics cards can become corrupted due to hardware failure or software malfunction. In most cases, corrupted graphics cards will cause display problems such as glitches, artifacts, and freezing.
Fortunately, however, there are several troubleshooting steps that you can take to try to repair a corrupted graphics card in Windows. Below is a comprehensive guide to repairing a corrupted graphics card in Windows:
1. Check Your Drivers
The first step in repairing a corrupted graphics card is to make sure that your drivers are up to date. Outdated or missing drivers can cause display problems such as glitches, artifacts, and freezing. To check your drivers, go to the device manager in Windows and check for any updates.
2. Uninstall and Reinstall Graphics Card Drivers
If updating your drivers does not help, then try uninstalling and reinstalling them. To uninstall your graphics card drivers, go to the device manager and select the “Uninstall Device” option for the graphics card. Then, follow the on-screen instructions to uninstall your drivers. Next, download the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website and install them.
3. Update BIOS
Your BIOS may also be outdated, which can cause display problems. To update your BIOS, you will need to download the latest version from the manufacturer’s website. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update.
4. Update DirectX
DirectX is a set of tools that is used by many games and applications. If your DirectX is outdated, it can cause issues with your graphics card. To update DirectX, go to the Microsoft website and download the latest version.
5. Clean Your Graphics Card
Sometimes, dust and debris can build up on your graphics card and cause display problems. To clean your graphics card, turn off your computer and unplug any power cables. Next, use compressed air to blow out any dust and debris.
6. Replace the Cooling Fan
If your graphics card is overheating, then that can cause display problems. To replace the cooling fan, you will need to remove the old one and replace it with a new one. Make sure the new fan is the same size and type as the old one.
7. Test the Monitor
If display problems persist, then the issue may be with your monitor. To test the monitor, connect it to another computer and see if the problem persists. If the problem does not occur on the other computer, then the monitor is likely the source of the problem.
8. Test Your System Memory
If your system memory is corrupted, then it can cause display problems. To test your system memory, you can use a memory testing tool such as Memtest86+. If the tool detects any errors, then you should replace the memory module as soon as possible.
9. Test the Power Supply Unit
A defective power supply unit (PSU) can cause display problems. To check whether your PSU is the source of the problem, connect it to a different computer and see if the problem persists. If the problem does not occur on the other computer, then the power supply unit is likely the source of the problem.
10. Replace the Graphics Card
If all else fails, then you may need to replace your graphics card. Make sure that the new card is compatible with your system before purchasing it.
By following these steps, you should be able to repair a corrupted graphics card in Windows. While it is not always possible to repair a corrupted graphics card, these steps should help diagnose the source of the problem and help you determine what you need to do to fix it.