Bad Graphics Board?

[Mr.Ernie]

Am having a problem with the screen getting "messed up" is the best way that I can describe it. Happens with all different apps running but nearly always shows up when trying to edit a photo in iPhoto. When I make an adjustment there (like sharpening) the photo will turn all red and the system will lock up. This does not always happen, but just most of the time.

In other apps, it can result in just messing up that page or the entire screen.

I can replace the Graphics card myself if that is what the problem is but is there any way to test it before laying out the $250?

Thanks for you help.

Running 10.6.4 on a 2.33 GHz 24", 3GB iMac

 

[Hellhammer]

Try Hardware Test, reset PRAM and SMC

 

[lamo]

can you launch some video subsystem tests? like 3dmark? what videocard is installed in your imac?

 

[Mr.Ernie]

3dmark?

I have the original NVIDIA GeForce 7300 GT video card installed and I thought the 3dmark application was only for Windows systems.

 

[Hellhammer]

I have the original NVIDIA GeForce 7300 GT video card installed and I thought the 3dmark application was only for Windows systems.

It is. You can try Cinebench but I would try the steps I mentioned in my post above

 

[lamo]

7300-n-a2 is known to fail. i recommend to replace it. afaik, this imac has MXM video card, you can replace it to original apple videocard, or you can find laptop repairing service and ask them to replace the videochip to new.

http://applecomponents.com/items/66...8/0000001391?pn=1&cat=Video Cards&per_page=30