Grey Screen of Death

[Phage]

The 5870 I recently purchased is getting this crash in most games. This appears to be a common software issue that is unresolved by the 10.2 drivers I am using.

I have been in contact with ATi who tell me that the 10.3 drivers should fix the problem. I am not so sure. What is the process for swapping this card for another model or obtaining a refund ? Would waiting for the 10.3s affect my right to return ?

If I have to raise it with XFX what is the procedure ?

Thanks.

EDIT: Have raised a support ticket with XFX number 284654

[Phage]

Bump - No response ?

[wesleyaldred]

Now you have raised the ticket with XFX, they will go through diagnosies with you and at then end will advise if to return the card or await driver updates etc.

[Phage]

OK - Thanks.
I'll keep you posted through this thread ?

[Phage]

XFX have reponded by telling me to underclock the card slightly. They have also assured me that this does not affect my warranty at all.
ATi have responded by telling me to wait for 10.3, and then if it's still crashing to return it to Scan for a new card/refund.
I'll wait to see what 10.3 brings. If it crashes again I'll call to arrange the RMA process. Is this OK ?

[Phage]

Ok - 10.3 betas seem better. A solid couple of hours on ETQW, L4D2 and Shattered Horizon before crash. I might wait till 10.3 official comes through and then try underclocking if they don`t work.

[Phage]

Have been running the 10.3a drivers and it's substantially worse. I can't get more than a few minutes into a game before crashing to either the GSOD or black screen. Both require a hard reset.
I will try the WHQL drivers when they are released this week. If they don't work then I will ask for a RMA code. The card is currently non-functional.

[Phage]

Ok - The 10.3 WHQL still haven't corrected the GSOD issue. I've asked XFX for an RMA number. What next ?

[wesleyaldred]

Once you have the RMA number gives us a call and we can arrange for the item to come back.

[Phage]

Ok - Will do, thanks.

[Phage]

XFX are now telling me flash the BIOS ! Something I have never done on a card. There's a serious possibility of toast...
I have replied and let them know that I don't believe that this is acceptable to ask a consumer to have to flash the BIOS for a card tp work and would like an RMA code. What is Scan's position ?

[wesleyaldred]

We can arrange for the card to be returned once XFX have authorised and issued you with a XRMA number.

Wesley

[Phage]

Just to clarify - you have no stance on the issue, but will not accept an RMA unless XFX clears it first ?

[wesleyaldred]

I cannot see any problem in a BIOS flash, although rare with Graphics cards, this is done with motherboards many many times over and is very common.

A BIOS flash should be very straight forward and done easilly, as long as XFX are prepared to take the card back should the BIOS update fail, then personally I would have no problem in carrying one out.

[Phage]

Cheers. I'll have a stab at it.
I'll admit to being quite nervous !

[Phage]

Have flashed the card BIOS. You were right, it's easy enough with the tools provided by XFX !
Unfortunately I only have had a few mins testing on BC2 but it feels smoother and didn't fall over. I'll keep you posted.