Computer Not Using Graphics Card? 5 Possible Fixes

If you are experiencing issues with your graphics card not being used by your computer, then this blog post is for you. This can happen due to a variety of reasons including BIOS or driver updates/upgrades. The article will provide tips on how to fix the issue. 

We have prepared a whole list of graphics cards, motherboard problems, and solutions guides.

why Computer not using graphics card?

Before I get started, there are a few reasons why your computer may not be using the graphics card.

Your computer has integrated graphics

This is when the graphics processing unit (GPU), also known as the video card , is actually part of or located on your motherboard vs. having it located on its own dedicated board that can be removed and replaced. This type of configuration is common with computers that had a pre-installed OS or those you got from a manufacturer like Dell, HP, etc. It’s also highly possible if your laptop has a dedicated graphics chip i.e. NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX graphics card , it can’t be used without an external monitor but most desktop machines can use the integrated graphics on their motherboards.

new driver was installed

If you recently updated your computer’s drivers, then this is most likely the reason why the card is not being used. You will need to uninstall/re-install any new drivers that were added or rollback to a previous version of the drivers.

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computer’s BIOS may not be configured properly

This is the first thing you should check to see if it can or cannot use its graphics card and overall performance. You will need to get into your machine’s BIOS ( UEFI for newer models ). For instructions on how to access your BIOS, please refer to your computer’s manufacturer.

The BIOS can be used to tell the computer whether to use integrated graphics, hard drive, USB ports and whatever other components are installed. It is a low-level program that is installed when you boot up your machine for the first time (after setting it up).

Non-compatible video drivers

If you recently updated your video card’s drivers, then you may want to check for compatibility issues between the new driver/old one. For example, if your computer is more than 3 years old, then it more than likely needs its original drivers to be compatible with your current OS. 

It is unable to use the graphics card ( i.e. not responding)

If you’ve tried all of the above and it still cannot detect the graphics card, then you may need to uninstall/re-install or re-seat your video card. If it is a desktop computer and the card has power and signal cables (which it should), then try swapping out with another video card you can borrow from someone else.

How to fix Computer not using graphics card

There are several methods that you can try to resolve this issue. I am going to provide you with the most common solutions on how to fix your computer not using graphics card?

Make sure your graphics card is plugged in correctly

Your computer will not use it if it isn’t. Also, some models have multiple video cards installed, so be aware of that. You may need to disable one of them or swap with another card.

Update drivers for your computer and graphics card.

If you have the latest drivers, but are still encountering problems, try updating them. Windows may not always update your drivers on its own if they are older or have issues. Newer ones may help. If there are no new drivers available for your specific model or brand of graphics card, upgrade to a newer one that is compatible with your computer’s system.

Uninstall the old driver and install a new one for your graphics card

For desktops, the default drivers that Windows installs with most GPUs and cards is fine and many times will work. However if you’re experiencing issues then you should uninstall the current driver and install a new one that came with your graphics card or download from its website. Again, if it’s an older model of GPU or integrated graphics processor, then it’s a good idea to upgrade.

Update your BIOS and disable the integrated graphics processor if necessary.

For laptops, you may need to disable the dedicated graphics chip in your BIOS if you want to use only its processor’s integrated graphics. If not, then leave it as is so that you can continue using dual cards for some games or apps.

Check to make sure that you have enough power from your power supply to run the graphic’s card .

If your power supply is not the recommended wattage for the graphics card, then you may need to purchase a larger or upgrade using one that is. You can also try reseating the connector and/or video card as well to make sure it isn’t loose or disconnected.

Troubleshoot any other problems with hardware or software on your computer before concluding that it is a problem with the graphics card 

If you have other issues with your computer, for example, software not installing correctly or external hardware not working after connecting to it, then the problem may be an issue with either that specific part or the drivers that are needed to make it run. Make sure that you have all of them up-to-date. Once this is done and you’ve tried all of the above steps, it’s a good idea to contact your computer manufacturer or graphics card maker for further assistance if you’re still having problems.

Contact computer repair service for repair or upgrade 

Otherwise, if you’re still having problems with your PC and have tried all of the above options, then it’s a good idea to contact a computer repair service for an in-home or on-site look at it. They can diagnose the problem and let you know what parts may need replaced or upgraded from there.

Here is the solution for Geforce Experience Not Working.

Conclusion:

Computer not using graphics card is a problem that you will need to handle as soon as possible. But, you can learn from this article and fix it on your own with the solutions mentioned above. If these tips help, then please share it with your friends so they can also benefit from them.

Thanks for reading!