T.6 How do I know if my graphics card or CPU is overheating?
The NVIDIA Monitor, which is part of nTune, can report, graph, and log GPU, CPU and motherboard temperatures. Logging temperatures is the most effective method of monitoring GPU temperatures.
T.6.1 What can I do about overheating?
Thoroughly clean the computer's fans, heatsinks and case with a couple of cans of compressed air to remove built up dust particles. Secure and route any lose wires to optimize airflow. If necessary, install additional or more powerful cooling fans.
If the component is overclocked, return the device to its stock configuration.
When a graphics card is manufactured its heatsink or fan may not be correctly seated. Modifying a graphics card's cooler will void its warranty. If a new graphics card overheats, contact the manufacturer about a replacement under warranty.
T.7 While running 3D applications random black or colored polygons appear on my screen.
These erroneous polygons, known as vertex artifacts, are a symptom of an overheating, underpowered or damaged GPU core. Ensure that the computer is adequately powered; check the Hardware section of this FAQ. See above for overheating solutions. If the GPU core is correctly powered and not overheating, it may be damaged; contact the graphics card's manufacturer about a replacement under warranty.
T.8 While running 3D applications multi-colored blocks appear on my screen.
Discolored blocks drawn onto 3D surfaces are a symptom of overheating or damaged graphics card memory. See above for overheating solutions. If the discolored blocks persist, contact the manufacturer about a replacement under warranty.
T.8.1 Multicolored blocks appear on my screen all of the time.
This may indicate a damaged RAMDAC, port or cable, a bad connection, or a damaged monitor. Switch to another port or try a different monitor cable.
T.9 I have a high-end graphics card, but my performance is poor.
High-end graphics card under-perform when they are not adequately powered, are overheating, or are paired with a low-performing CPU. See the Hardware section of this FAQ.
T.10 How do I know if my graphics card has enough power?
An underpowered graphics card may cause the computer to lose power as it overdraws the PSU. In less extreme cases the graphics card will throttle its performance to reduce its power draw. If a graphics card is underperforming, it may be underpowered.