Troubleshooting Guide: Why Your PC Doesn’t Boot Past the Windows Logo After a GPU Upgrade
Upgrading your graphics card can elevate your gaming experience or improve productivity, but sometimes it results in unexpected issues. One common problem users face is their PC failing to display anything beyond the Windows logo after installing a new GPU. In this article, we’ll explore a real-world scenario and offer practical steps to diagnose and resolve such issues.
Scenario Overview
A user recently replaced their NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 with a GTX 1070. The new card was a tight fit but was installed successfully. Initially, the user experienced no display output via HDMI, but switching to DisplayPort and DVI provided images up to the Windows logo. However, the system failed to progress beyond the logo screen. Interestingly, reverting to the original GPU resulted in a similar problem—no display, though BIOS access remained intact. Both GPUs drew minimal power (only around 0.03V), indicating possible power or recognition issues.
Common Causes and Solutions
1. Driver Conflicts or Corruption
Cause:
When changing GPUs, outdated or conflicting drivers can prevent proper booting beyond the Windows logo.
Solution:
– Boot into Safe Mode by pressing F8 or holding Shift during startup.
– Use Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) to completely remove existing GPU drivers.
– Reboot and install the latest drivers compatible with your GPU from NVIDIA’s official website.
2. Power Supply and Connections
Cause:
An inadequate or failing power supply may not deliver sufficient power, especially for higher-tier GPUs like the GTX 1070.
Solution:
– Confirm that your PSU wattage meets the GPU’s requirements.
– Ensure all power connectors are securely attached to the GPU.
– Test with a known-good PSU if possible.
3. BIOS Settings and Compatibility
Cause:
Incorrect BIOS settings or outdated firmware can hinder system recognition of new hardware.
Solution:
– Reset BIOS to default settings.
– Check BIOS for settings related to PCIe slot configuration; set to Gen 3 or Auto.
– Update the motherboard BIOS to the latest version available from the manufacturer’s website.
4. Hardware Seating and Physical Fit
Cause:
A tight fit can cause improper contact or damage.
Solution:
– Carefully re-seat the GPU, ensuring it is firmly and
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