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Resolved Question

Graphics card issues

Apr 24, 2015 9:08AM PDT

I just bought a new computer (device specifics below) and am having issues playing games where the games start flashing, screen goes blank or is covered in vertical lines. Sounds still plays in the background but the whole system is frozen. This makes virtually all games unplayable. Some times games will also simply minimize to the desktop like they have lost focus, but this does not happen as often. This only occurs when using the Radeon graphics card, when I use the integrated one none of these issues occur, whoever it is obviously much less powerful. All games are installed via steam.

This is my first time buying a gaming desktop, it is only moderate specs, but a decent upgrade from the laptop I had previously.

Computer:
Aeon 2050 Gaming Desktop
Widows 7 SP1 Home premium 64bit
intel i5-4460 3.2ghz quad-core
8GB DDR3 RAM
1TB hard drive
intel 4600 integrated graphics
AMD Radeon R9 270X graphics card
500w power supply

Using Philips TV as screen

I have tried the following:
- different screen (no change)
- using different plug for desktop to avoid power issues (no change)
- drivers are up to date (Catalyst control Omega 14.12)
- monitored using catalyst control and Royal Flush, appears to be random flucuations in core and memory clock speed (from 1080 down to 450 and back up)
- switched cables (no change)
- completed windows updates (no change)

I have a basic computer knowledge, but am by no means an expert, so any help would be appreciated!

Discussion is locked

gdurf has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer

Best Answer

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AHA. TV!
Apr 24, 2015 9:25AM PDT

That means your video game and card may switch to some incompatible mode.

It's NOT a driver issue. All settings. Be sure to get to DXDIAG's MORE HELP tab and set OVERRIDE to 60 as a start.
Bob

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Unsure
Apr 24, 2015 12:30PM PDT

There is no "more help" tab on my DXDIAG, I did go to help > What to look for > Screen resolution > adavnced settings > trouble shoot > and intended to go to change settings, but the box was grayed out.

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Screen shot please.
Apr 24, 2015 1:18PM PDT

You may have to look over all TABS for the OVERRIDE feature to limit scan rates.

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Identification
Apr 25, 2015 2:08AM PDT

I will get some tonight.

However, I believe I have a found a source of the problem. When I start up the tower and TV together, everything works fine. The issue only begins if the TV shuts off while the computer is on. If I turn the TV back on then the flickering starts. So if the TV turns off I have to turn it on and then restart the computer.

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Sounds like setting or driver issues.
Apr 25, 2015 2:13AM PDT

For decades I've had to use the DXDIAG OVERRIDE feature and video card settings to avoid what your PC's issue is. The thing is, there are now so many variable control panels that I can't be as specific as I was a decade ago. Today I can only point in a general direction or item and you have to go find it.
Bob

PS. http://www.techspot.com/community/topics/dxdiag-problem.157167/ shows that more help tab.

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Thanks
Apr 25, 2015 5:26AM PDT

I totally understand and appreciate the help! Always nice to at least know what you are looking for even if you have to hunt it down a bit!