Test graphics card and check for errors – this is how it works

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Do you want to test your graphics card or check for errors? MeinMMO explains to you how best to proceed.

Do you think your graphics card is broken or do you just want to test whether your newly installed graphics card is working properly? There are various options that MeinMMO would like to introduce to you.

How do I know that my graphics card could have errors?

  • Graphical bugs and glitches that are getting worse and worse.
  • Strange noises from your fans.
  • Crashes and blue screens occur more often when you are playing.
  • Significantly lower frame rate and severe frame drops.
  • Your graphics card is overheating.
  • Your computer cannot find a built-in graphics card.

    • You can find a comprehensive list of whether your graphics card is broken or could die directly on MeinMMO.

    Test graphics card and check for errors:

    Start DirectX diagnostic program

    Needed: No special things necessary | Time required: 5 minutes | Cost: none | Difficulty: Light

    What is that? The easiest and fastest way to check your graphics card is via the DirectX diagnostic program integrated into Windows. DirectX is a collection of programming interfaces and is integrated into Windows.

    To do this, enter “dxdiag” in the Windows search and open the specified program. Alternatively, you give [Windows-Taste] + [R]to open the Run window and then enter “dxdiag” and confirm with the input.

    This will open a new window. Switch to the “Display” tab here and you will find all the important data and information you need for your graphics card.

    Where can I find possible errors? In the “Notes” window you will find problems that you can or should solve.

    You can find more information about your graphics card in the DirectX diagnostic program.

    Check device manager

    Needed: No special things necessary | Time required: 5 – 10 minutes | Cost: none | Difficulty: Light

    What is that? The device manager is another quick way to search for the source of the error. The easiest way to do this is to search for “Device Manager” under Windows and open the program. The device manager then hits you with data about all the devices connected to your computer. Under the “Graphics cards” tab you will find all connected graphics cards and so-called display adapters.

    Where can I find possible errors?

  • By right-clicking on the name of the graphics card and then clicking on “Properties”, you can see further information and, under device status, whether your graphics card is working. Errors and problems are listed here.
  • If your graphics card is marked with a yellow warning triangle in the device manager, this is also an indication of an error.
  • If your graphics card doesn’t even appear in the manager, this is also an indication of a problem.
    • In the device manager you can find your installed GPU under the “Graphics cards” tab.

    Carry out a stress test with the graphics card

    Needed: No special things necessary | Time required: 30 – 60 minutes | Cost: none | Difficulty: Medium

    What is that? If your graphics card is recognized but there are still problems, then a stress test may be worthwhile. This puts a lot of strain on the GPU and pushes it to its limits.

    Important: If you do a stress test, always keep an eye on your computer and especially on the temperatures. In the worst case scenario, your graphics card can be damaged if you’re not careful. Benchmarks and tests are done at your own risk.

    Recommended benchmark software for GPUs:

  • OCCT: Mainly for checking bugs and stability issues. You can use it to stress test various components of your system. It is practical that you can also make safety settings, such as setting the critical temperature that must not be exceeded (external link to the manufacturer).
  • Furmark: A free benchmark and stress test that can be used to check the stability of graphics cards. The GPU is put under a lot of load (external link to the manufacturer).
  • Heaven UNIGINE: Was developed to carry out very heavy and lengthy stress tests for the graphics card, for example in relation to rasterization and tessellation (External link to the manufacturer).

    • All three programs mentioned are free. OCCT is free for one hour, but you have to pay for longer tests. Here we give examples of certain types that we can recommend.

    There are even more benchmark tools, such as PresentMon, which is very comprehensive, but is not able to display results graphically in a meaningful way.

    Another tip: GPU-Z or HWiNFO64 are not necessary for a GPU test, but they are small, practical helpers that we can always recommend to you. While GPU-Z primarily shows data about your graphics card, HWiNFO64 shows you information about all installed components. You can find more recommendations for your PC in the following article:

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    Tips and tricks for graphics card errors

    This is what you can do if you have problems:

  • Test monitor cables and connections: In some cases, the only problem is an HDMI cable that is not plugged in properly. In this case you should generally not have a picture.
  • Check the power connection: Are all power cables seated correctly and properly snapped into the graphics card?
  • Graphics card installed correctly: Check whether your graphics card is installed correctly and is correctly locked into the slot in the mainboard. The graphics card should noticeably and audibly click into place on your motherboard.
  • Update or reinstall graphics card drivers: A new installation is recommended if you have installed a new graphics card and have remained loyal to the manufacturer.
  • Control Games: In some issues, the problem may also be an incompatible game or a bug in the game.
  • Clean hardware: If your graphics card is very dusty or dirty, it may be worth cleaning the hardware thoroughly so that the fans work properly again.
  • Renew thermal paste: If your GPU is already a few years old, it may be worth changing the thermal paste. This means you can sometimes noticeably reduce the heat.

    • More about graphics cards: If you are looking for a new graphics card or want to know which GPUs are currently recommended, then take a look at our overview on MeinMMO. Here we introduce you to all recommended and current graphics cards:

    The best graphics cards in gaming for every budget

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