The brain of your visual computer experience is the graphics card or GPU (Graphics Processor Unit). The graphics card plays a crucial part in everything from processing high-resolution videos to producing breathtaking graphics for video games. Yet after time, it can, like any hardware, start to exhibit signs of wear and tear, leading to the dreaded graphics card failure. This blog post intends to assist you in identifying the early warning symptoms of a dying graphics card and prompting timely action.
Failures of Graphics Cards: An Introduction
Every PC user dreads the second their machine begins acting strangely. And the idea of your graphics card failing is much more alarming if you’re a gamer, video editor, or 3D animator. Given how essential the GPU is to contemporary computing tasks, its failure can significantly reduce your productivity and enjoyment. But do not worry; by identifying the warning indications of a failing GPU, you may intervene quickly and save a total system failure.
How to Tell Whether Your Graphics Card Is Dying
First, Strange Visual Artifacts
Unusual graphical errors on the screen are called artifacts. They can seem as haphazard lines, strange colors, or shapes that arise in unexpected places. It may be a sign that your graphics card needs to be replaced if you start experiencing these problems when performing graphics-intensive activities like gaming or video editing.
- Frequent Crashes and the Blue Death Screen (BSOD)
A failing graphics card may be the cause of frequent crashes, especially those that are accompanied by the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD). Occasional crashes can be caused by a variety of problems. If your GPU or its driver is mentioned in the accident reports, you need to pay close attention.
- Inadequate Workmanship
Games and other graphically demanding applications that suddenly start to operate slowly could indicate a problem. Stuttering, dropped frames, or a loss of detail could be signs of a malfunctioning GPU. To rule out other explanations, it’s a good idea to look at other variables first, such as software updates, CPU performance, and memory consumption.
- Excessive heat
Graphics cards produce a lot of heat, especially under demanding conditions. Overheating can occur when cooling systems (such fans or heat sinks) become worn out over time. A GPU that runs too hot all the time is more likely to fail quickly.
- Unusual Sounds
If a graphics card’s fans are failing, they may begin to make strange noises. Even while noise during periods of heavy load is to be expected, keep an ear out for clicking, grinding, or whining sounds. These could be the first signs of a forthcoming GPU failure.
What to Do If These Symptoms Appear on Your Graphics Card
Do not become alarmed if your GPU begins to exhibit one or more of these symptoms. You can take steps to verify the problem and, in some situations, perhaps even lengthen the lifespan of your graphics card.
Updating your drivers
The software known as graphics drivers is what enables your operating system and graphics card to communicate. Sometimes all your card needs is a quick driver update to get back on track. Always make sure you have the most recent drivers installed from the website of the GPU manufacturer.
- Track the Temperature of Your GPU
You can prevent serious harm from overheating by keeping an eye on your GPU’s temperature. You can track GPU temperature in real-time using a variety of free software applications. Clean up any dust and check that the cooling system is working properly if your GPU is running hot.
- Put the GPU under stress
A GPU stress test will help you figure out whether your graphics card is failing. Your GPU will be stressed to the limit throughout this test, and if your GPU is close to fail, it will likely suffer. This task can be accomplished using tools like MSI Kombustor or FurMark.
- Get professional advice
It’s a good idea to seek professional advice if you’re not confident in your ability to diagnose hardware problems on your own. A knowledgeable expert can examine your graphics card, evaluate its state, and advise whether it needs to be replaced.
Conclusion
Even though it’s never nice to consider the possibility of a failing graphics card, being aware of the warning signals might help you plan and take appropriate action before a complete breakdown takes place. You can identify a failing GPU early by keeping a watch out for visual abnormalities, crashes, performance problems, overheating, and odd noises.
But keep in mind that these indications are just that—indicative. Similar faults can be brought on by different hardware or software flaws. Before choosing a replacement, always undertake exhaustive troubleshooting or consult a specialist. After all, keeping your GPU in good shape improves both your computing experience and the lifespan of your computer.
Hi! I’m Eric and I work on the knowledge base at GadgetMates.com. You can see some of my writings about technology, cellphone repair, and computer repair here.
When I’m not writing about tech I’m playing with my dog or hanging out with my girlfriend.
Shoot me a message at ericchan@gadgetmates.com if you want to see a topic discussed or have a correction on something I’ve written.
