Windows 7 Driver crashing (KFA2 GTX 580 Anarchy Ed.)

[Lunarpac]

Hello people!

I recently updated my drivers at the same time as I bought a new case for my computer, but after installing the components in the new case I have issues with the driver crashing all the time. It's seemingly at random, might be after 2 hours or right after booting. Sometimes there's graphical artifacts and tearing even during boot. I've also done a ton of updates through windows update.

This is the error message I get:
"Display driver NVIDIA Windows Kernel Mode Driver, Version xxx.xx stopped responding and has successfully recovered"

I've tried several drivers so far, 301.42, 296.10, and 295.73 (all after uninstalling all driver stuff except PhysX in control panel, and using DriverSweeper to clean the files). None of these drivers seem to resolve the situation.

I realize that I may have been stupid enough to fry the circuits when moving the components into the new case, but as I was hooked up to an unpainted part of the case with an ESD-bracerthingy (brand new), and the KFA2 GTX 580 Anarchy Edition doesn't have any circuits exposed (it's mostly covered in fans and a metal backplate), this scenario seems like a long shot (at least I hope it is). Everything shows up fine in GPU-Z, and there seems to be nothing weird about the card physically (I'm no expert at detecting fried circuits though, is it obvious and easy to see?). It also runs fine without the drivers in safe mode (with some "8.17.12.6309" driver from 2010, guessing it's on my MB's internal graphics then).

I guess this issue is caused by either fried circuits (through ESD), bad drivers, or bad PSU, but I'm no expert. sure I've built a couple of computers in my days, but I'm at a loss here. Does anyone have any idea why these issues arise? Or how I can solve them? I'd appreciate any help and input on this.

System specs:

OS: Windows 7 Professional
CPU: Intel® Core™ i5-2500K CPU @ 3.30GHz, 3310 Mhz, 4 Core(s), 4 Logical Processor(s)
Bios: American Megatrends Inc. 3202, 2012-02-17 (SMBIOS v. 2.6)
MB: ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3
RAM: Kingston DDR3 HyperX 1600MHz 8GB
PSU: Cooler Master GX Lite 700W PSU

 

[ChatGPT]

It sounds like you're facing some frustrating issues with your display driver crashing after updating your drivers and moving components to a new case. Let's address your concerns and try to troubleshoot the problem:

Possible Causes:​

1. Faulty Drivers: The error message you're receiving indicates a problem with the NVIDIA display driver.
2. ESD Damage: While ESD damage is possible, you took precautions by using an ESD strap. However, it's worth double-checking the components for any visible damage.
3. PSU Issues: A malfunctioning or insufficient power supply unit (PSU) could also lead to driver crashes and GPU issues.

Troubleshooting Steps:​

1. Check GPU for Physical Damage: Inspect the GPU for any visible signs of damage, like burnt components or unusual marks.
2. Test with Another GPU: If possible, try another GPU in your system to see if the issue persists.
3. Test GPU in Another System: To rule out motherboard issues, test your GPU in another system.
4. Monitor System Temperatures: High temperatures can cause GPU instability. Use software like HWMonitor to check temperatures.
5. Check PSU: Ensure your PSU is functioning correctly and providing enough power to all components.
6. Update BIOS: Sometimes updating the BIOS can resolve compatibility issues.

Recommended Actions:​

1. Reinstall Drivers Cleanly: Completely uninstall the current drivers using Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) and then install the latest NVIDIA drivers.
2. Check Windows Update: Ensure all Windows updates are installed.
3. Reseat Components: Reseat the GPU, RAM, and other components to ensure they are properly connected.
4. Run System File Checker: Use the sfc /scannow command in Command Prompt to check for and repair any corrupted system files.
5. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic: This can help identify any issues with your system's RAM.

Additional Information:​

• Physical Damage: Fried circuits are often visibly burnt or damaged, but it's advisable to have a technician inspect your components just to be sure.
• Safe Mode Test: The fact that the GPU works in safe mode suggests a driver or software issue rather than a hardware problem.

System Specifications:​

• Operating System: Windows 7 Professional
• CPU: Intel Core i5-2500K @ 3.30GHz
• Motherboard: ASUS P8Z68-V PRO/GEN3
• RAM: Kingston DDR3 HyperX 8GB @ 1600MHz
• PSU: Cooler Master GX Lite 700W PSU

By following these steps, you should be able to narrow down the root cause of the driver crashes and hopefully resolve the issue without needing to replace any hardware. Let me know if you need further assistance with any of these steps!