Computer Help Needed

[Schmidty]

I'm really frustrated right now.

I woke up this morning, and the monitor was black, so I restarted the computer, and then everything seemed fine. But now, everytime I try to start an application that uses the video card, the application freezes and I have to restart my computer. Everything else is normal. For example, I can start and play stuff like OOTP just fine.

I tried reinstalling the video drivers, and even directx (although I didn't know how to uninstall it first). I also tried a system restore back to yesterday (before all this happened). Nothing has worked so far. Oh, and now when I do a restart, windows shuts down, and then there's a longish beep but the computer doesn't restart (although it's still on). I only noticed that after the restore, but it could have happened before that.

Could it be that my video card is dying? I hope not, since I don't want to spend money on a new one right now.

Any help from you guys would be appreciated.

[Schmidty]

Anyone? I need to go to work soon, but I really want to figure something out, or it's going to bug me all night.

Please don't make Schmidty beg. :(

[Groundhog]

Usually when you get that "beep" on starting up it's something basic not working (ram, video card, etc).

I'd guess that your video card is dead. I'm sure there's a way to test that (opening up programs that use your 3D card and then having your PC crash is probably a good one already however), but off the top of my head I can't think of any apps/commands to test this.

[Schmidty]

Usually when you get that "beep" on starting up it's something basic not working (ram, video card, etc).

Well, I only get that beep when I restart from the start menu (or anywhere else), and then it doesn't start up again, unless I manually push the restart button. Also, I can still use my computer just fine unless I start a graphically intensive game, so the card at least works a little, so would the computer still beep and recognize the problem?

Anyway, I'm thinking you're right, and that the card's dying. :(

[Schmidty]

No more help or suggestions?

You guys are bastards.

[stevew]

Homebrew machine? does it have error lights on the back?

[MizzouRah]

I would agree, sounds like a video card on the brink of death.