I don't know which part of my system I need to replace

[Greymon]

I bought this PC, a Dell Xps 8500. It had a gtx 640 in it.

However I needed a better gpu so I got a 660. My PC very many times either froze, gave me a random colored blank screen (most of the time just black) and said the nvidia kernal driver crashed. No matter what driver or whatever I tried, it never stopped. I can't play CS GO or some other games because of this.

I realized the stock PSU could be the problem, so I replaced it, I now have a CX600w corsair. Still getting the problems.

I sent the GPU to EVGA for RMA, they sent it back but my PC still gave problems.

So I saved some money, now I am looking at buying some new parts, however I can't help but wonder that the GPU might not be what's causing the freezes.

Because the 660 is fine for what i play, still, so that's a bonus too if the mobo and cpu are the problem. I want to try the gpu in another pc but i'm scared it will damage other people's pc, don't have a spare pc.

 

[Enzyoo]

The card might be damnaged, or it can be driver issues.

If you can, do a fresh install of Windows to clean everything. Just remember to backup your games and stuff first. Or you can try to install updated drivers while in Safe Mode and see if it will help. I doubt the card is damaged since the driver is crashing, it could be overheating.

 

[Shaun o]

Looking at the Dell Xps case you have there is very little room for any air flow inside of it.
It looks very compact and tight for space though a GTX 660 card is not as long as some Pci-e graphics cards.
And how close the cpu of the motherboard also is with its cpu cooler on it.

Heat build up inside the case is most definitely the cause as to why when playing a game such as CS GO for you.
There is a simple test you can do here if you have not tried it Greymon to stop games such as CS GO and the graphics display black screening on you.

But first let me say the reason why you get the black screen in the first place is because the actual gpu chip on the GTX 660 card you have is without doubt getting too hot. the video driver does this and self terminates with the black screen as a last resort to preventing the gpu on the GTX 660 card from burning out due to temps being to high.

It`s a safety feature Greymon, because it takes the load off the gpu allowing it to cool down just as you would exit a game manually when finished playing it.

Take the side off the case and let the system breath.
If you have a desk fan place it about a foot away facing the open side of the case.

Test to see how long CS GO should play without black screening on you.

You simply need to buy a new case that is taller and slightly wider with room for system fans for air flow in and to expel hot air build up.

Go on give it a try remove the side of the case, and use a desk fan pointing at the open side of the case.

 

[Greymon]

Looking at the Dell Xps case you have there is very little room for any air flow inside of it.
It looks very compact and tight for space though a GTX 660 card is not as long as some Pci-e graphics cards.
And how close the cpu of the motherboard also is with its cpu cooler on it.

Heat build up inside the case is most definitely the cause as to why when playing a game such as CS GO for you.
There is a simple test you can do here if you have not tried it Greymon to stop games such as CS GO and the graphics display black screening on you.

But first let me say the reason why you get the black screen in the first place is because the actual gpu chip on the GTX 660 card you have is without doubt getting too hot. the video driver does this and self terminates with the black screen as a last resort to preventing the gpu on the GTX 660 card from burning out due to temps being to high.

It`s a safety feature Greymon, because it takes the load off the gpu allowing it to cool down just as you would exit a game manually when finished playing it.

Take the side off the case and let the system breath.
If you have a desk fan place it about a foot away facing the open side of the case.

Test to see how long CS GO should play without black screening on you.

You simply need to buy a new case that is taller and slightly wider with room for system fans for air flow in and to expel hot air build up.

Go on give it a try remove the side of the case, and use a desk fan pointing at the open side of the case.

Thank you so much, I'll try that. Sorry I misclicked on the best solution button, I haven't tried your recommendation. But thank you so much for the insightful reply. You've made my day by showing how nice you can be with your message. Take care.

 

[bignastyid]

Thank you so much, I'll try that. Sorry I misclicked on the best solution button

Fixed that for you.

 

[Greymon]

Looking at the Dell Xps case you have there is very little room for any air flow inside of it.
It looks very compact and tight for space though a GTX 660 card is not as long as some Pci-e graphics cards.
And how close the cpu of the motherboard also is with its cpu cooler on it.

Heat build up inside the case is most definitely the cause as to why when playing a game such as CS GO for you.
There is a simple test you can do here if you have not tried it Greymon to stop games such as CS GO and the graphics display black screening on you.

But first let me say the reason why you get the black screen in the first place is because the actual gpu chip on the GTX 660 card you have is without doubt getting too hot. the video driver does this and self terminates with the black screen as a last resort to preventing the gpu on the GTX 660 card from burning out due to temps being to high.

It`s a safety feature Greymon, because it takes the load off the gpu allowing it to cool down just as you would exit a game manually when finished playing it.

Take the side off the case and let the system breath.
If you have a desk fan place it about a foot away facing the open side of the case.

Test to see how long CS GO should play without black screening on you.

You simply need to buy a new case that is taller and slightly wider with room for system fans for air flow in and to expel hot air build up.

Go on give it a try remove the side of the case, and use a desk fan pointing at the open side of the case.

I have a question though. Because I love the idea of getting a new mobo, cpu and some ram so that I can get a different sized case - probably an ATX. I'm wondering if you think my GPU may be damaged?

 

[Greymon]

Thank you so much, I'll try that. Sorry I misclicked on the best solution button

Fixed that for you.

Thanks buddy! take care!