1st-gen Mac Pro problems... Is it the GPU?

a little background: i'm running first-generation mac pro pci-express gpu connector. card ati radeon x1900 xt 512 mb. originally, card giving me kinds of weird artifacts during 3d gaming (world of warcraft) , after cajoling on phone able apple replace card under warranty. solved problem. running revised edition of same card.

flash forward year or ago. out of nowhere, computer has begun shutting off. doesn't happen every day. doesn't happen every week. i'd once month @ worst. still, out of powers down. in addition, when running pretty full-screen app, such game involves 3d graphics, screen blanks out while rest of computer continues function.

when behavior began, took computer genius bar, thinking power unit. ran tests , power unit came peachy.

however, have begun wondering if perhaps it's gpu blame. had problem previous computer, dell desktop. shut computer down during games, , when bought new dvi-based lcd monitor replace crt, fried connection between gpu , logic board , bricked computer.

after that, question this: think able solve issues replacing/upgrading gpu? theoretically buy new imac summer when they're updated, think current computer still filling needs. don't game on anymore, , after doubled onboard ram has been able chug along nicely in performing other duties.

here card looking @ replacement:

http://www.macpalace.com/mac-parts/...ation-512-mb-mac-pro-2-2-66-3-ghz-a1186-ma35/

or possibly:

http://www.macpalace.com/mac-parts/...card-nvidia-geforce-8800-gt-512-mb-and-cable/

(i'm not sure how they're different)

think solve issue? i'd hate sink $200 old computer , not things, if solve issues, 2 years or out of computer, wind saving me money since when replace it, i'll more computer per dollar, plus i'll able sell functioning computer , not defect.

thanks.

 

the cards in pictures 8800gts cards.

possible selling 8800gts cards flashed 8800gt mac rom.

better stock apple 8800gt in dual level fan has easier time cooling card. card quieter , can live longer. while g92 chip in 1 of nvidia's shining hours, "chewing gum , super glue" solder used replace lead not par.

multiple heat/cool cycles causes fractures in bga , cards fail. quick trip through oven can fix awhile.

single slot version more experience failure.

if looking official apple cards, compare dvwarehouse in la , mac pro systems in san jose. sell similar cards, haven't looked prices in awhile.

may want clarify mac palace if card indeed dual slot card photographed or single slot, part numbers indicate.

if going drop $200, may want consider getting 5770 bh photo. think have them $229 or that. 5770 newer tech , less fail in near future.

behavior describe typical of x1900. have tried blowing fan out? intake grid row of copper fins @ power end of card. can covered in dust , cause card overheat.

 

Forums Macs Desktops Mac Pro

• iPhone
• Mac OS & System Software
• iPad
• Apple Watch
• Notebooks
• iTunes
• Apple ID
• iCloud
• Desktop Computers
• Apple Music
• Professional Applications
• iPod
• iWork
• Apple TV
• iLife
• Wireless