DV2000 shuts off when running performance index or using TV card

Hey all,

I've got a DV2000 with the T7200 core 2, 120GB HD, GeForce 7200, 2 GB Ram, etc etc and since I installed Vista Home Premium a few months ago I have never been able to run a performance index. Right after the Direct3D alpha blend assessment the screen goes black and two seconds later the laptop shuts off. I also bought a TV tuner card (older Yuan EC680 analog expresscard) and when I try to set up the TV in media center the same thing happens. Also, when I watch a video file fullscreen and leave the palce bar/controls on screen the video driver crashes or starts running very erratically.

I've tried installing about 5 different nvidia driversfrom the HPs to the Windows the the LV2G modified inf file drivers and I continue to have the same problem. I just sent the notebook to HP for repairs and got the "we found a problem with your system board and replaced it" letter in the box a few days ago. I still have the same exact problems. Anyone have any idea what the problem may be? I'm assuming it's GFX card related.

Thanks

 

Have you tried without the TV tuner card installed? That card dumps an awful lot of heat into the chassis. Your description sounds like an overheating problem. Also, check your CPU temps with Core Temp.

 

You know, I think you might be right. I had tried the test before I bought the tv card, but always after the laptop had been on for a while. I just tried it right after booting after sitting for several hours and sure enough the test finished (lousy 2.7) and I could use the TV card as well. So now that it's very likely a heat related issue, what can I do to help? A "cool pad" is not exactly practical when you're travelling with it which I do.

 

Here's a guide that explains how to deal with overheating issues: http://forum.notebookreview.com/showthread.php?t=60914

I would open it up to see if there is dust clogging the vents and fans and clean those if necessary. Undervolting is good too if you feel you are up to it.

 

I'd look for dust around the fan intake vent on the bottom of the notebook. If it looks like there's a lot, then maybe open up the machine so you can clean out the heatsink... but there is some risk involved in that. The guide Incursis linked to is a good place to start.

For now, the best thing you can do is not use that TV card. USB TV tuners like my OnAir GT USB HDTV are a better choice.

 

I'm actually pretty anal about blowing out the dust from my computers so unless I have some built up inside the case I don't think that's the issue. I think I will give the undervolting a try.

I'm not really interested in artic silvering the heatsink on a laptop that's still under warranty. I just have a feeling hp might take issue with that should I have to send the laptop in for something else...

Maybe it's just me, but I think it's pretty ridiculous to have a laptop that overheats while doing things like watching a video or using a TV card. It's a crock that I can't use the expresscard tv tuner without these problems. Way to go hp...