Radeon 9600 graphics RAM problem

[Guinnesstain]

I have a Radeon 9600 Pro 256Mb Graphics Card.

 

My problem started as soon as I got my new graphics card but as I also got a new LCD monitor and RAM at the same time it has taken a while to track the problem down to the card.

Just for clarity, I know of 3 different ways to check the frame buffer size of the graphics card. 1. Dxdiag then the display tab. 2. Display properties>advanced then adaptor tab and 3. Display properties>advanced the Option tab then Details.

I check these each time I boot-up.

When the PC boots you would normally see the black POST screen! IF I see this screen on boot-up then the frame buffer size is always 256Mb. IF I don’t see the POST screen then it is 8Mb. I have tried getting to the BIOS when I don’t see the POST screen by hitting the ‘del’ key and my PC just sits there for a long time with the monitor on standby waiting to receive a signal, I presume it has entered the BIOS but I am not seeing the display. I have had my monitor replaced and tried different RAM and the problem still remains.

I have also tried removing the card and vacuuming inside the tower and reseating the graphics card. This works, but NOT every time.

 

My PC is self built and is on all the time. I have given it a rest and then turned it on, but it remains the same. so I dont believe it's temp related.