Screen flashes black under GPU load, especially at higher resolutions

[stephenkenny]

Built this PC two years ago:
OS Name Microsoft Windows 8.1 Pro
Version 6.3.9600 Build 9600
Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-3570K CPU @ 3.40GHz, 3401 Mhz, 4 Core(s), 4 Logical Processor(s)
AMD Radeon HD 7800 Series
8 GB RAM

Was working well until recently. Now the screen frequently flashes black for a second, in that very distinctive two-phase way like when you are changing resolutions. These flashes are more frequent at higher resolutions and under heavy graphics loads. For example, they never occur on the Windows 8 login screen, rarely on an inactive desktop, but while watching 1080p video they occur so frequently that the screen is visible for only a few frames every 5-6 seconds.

While the screen is blacked out, processes continue to run normally. CPU and memory loads are not affected. CPU and GPU temps are normal.

I did not install any software before this began happening, but in desperation have updated GPU drivers (several times) and reinstalled Windows, with no effect. I suspect this may be a hardware issue, but cannot identify the culprit.

Disabling the GPU did not change the flashing.

Could this be a cable/monitor issue? Is it possible for higher resolution/video to exacerbate a problem in the monitor?

 

[JimF_35]

"Disabling the GPU did not change the flashing."

What does this mean? How did you disable the GPU? Did you pull the card out or something?

One last question, is the GPU overclocked and if so what are your temperatures under load?

 

[kapitalistas]

may help resolve problem by use different monitor.

 

[stephenkenny]

"Disabling the GPU did not change the flashing."

What does this mean? How did you disable the GPU? Did you pull the card out or something?

In the Device Manager --> Display adapters --> AMD Radeon HD 7800 Series
right-click, "Disable"
CPU temp/fan rise, confirming that it is doing the processing. Monitor is still plugged into the GPU though.

But yes, I have also physically removed the card and plugged the monitor into the motherboard - but I was getting crazy lines/colors, so I abandoned that route. Not sure if there were other issues there. I could try again if you think it's worthwhile.

One last question, is the GPU overclocked and if so what are your temperatures under load?

I have overclocked it in the past, but not in the last 12 months. Temp is currently 30-31 C.

may help resolve problem by use different monitor.

I don't have access to one easily, but I can try to get one if you think that is likely the problem.

 

[Zerk2012]

You listed everything but the power supply.
Corrupt driver, bad card, power supply not giving enough power under load.

 

[stephenkenny]

Is there a way that I can test the power supply?

 

[kapitalistas]

i suggest try different monitor,i have different issue my monitor dimming by itself when gaming or watching video on youtube or blue-ray in full screen.on different monitor have no problems at all.

 

[stephenkenny]

Hooked up my HDMI TV, and it's working perfectly. So the problem is either my monitor, the DVI port, or the DVI cable. Monitor seems most likely. Looks like I'll be ordering a new one. Thanks guys, you were great.

 

[kapitalistas]

your welcome!