Sudden issue with 9800m GT (artifacting during startup + code 43 disabled)

I am using a Sager 5793 type model with a 9800m GT, and all of the sudden while everything was working normally, something decided to blue screen me out of no where and force a hard restart. Immediately noticed artifacting during bios and especially during the windows loading screen (the typical blue broken up lines that everyone has seen before). Card is then automatically disabled and the integrated VGA takes over as windows loads into the login screen (vista). I see the device listed as disabled and marked with Code 43.

So, I assume it's either a video RAM issue or perhaps the usual soldering issue. I really think the only option is for me to try to bake it. Already tried updating the drivers (newest release) and that of course didn't change anything. What do all of you think? I already had an 8800m completely die on me, and had to pay a lot for this 9800m replacement. By the way, I have never had temperatures above 73C, so unless the sensor was wrong, I don't think overheating was the problem. Quite frankly I just think Nvidia made shoddy cards for the 8x and 9x series. Unacceptable, but what can you do.

Thanks in advance for any advice.

 

hi and welcome to nbr and to the ever growing dead 9800GT society.
second one this week so check this thread for some ideas HERE

 

You may want to try to bake it, but remember that it is only a temporary fix. You'll probably want to start looking for a replacement card as this is a pretty textbook card failure, which is common for that whole line of cards.

 

Thanks, similar problem as mine indeed.

I think I may try to bake it, but would you suppose the Quadro FX 3700m might be the best replacement to look for? I don't want to spend much, otherwise I might as well just get a newer machine altogether.