nVidia (nvlddmkm.sys) BSoD on start up

Question

I have an NVidia 8500 GT. I've been experiencing this error ever since I unplugged the S-video cable. I have tried reformatting and reinstalling Windows, but I still get this error.

At first, when I had Windows 7 still installed on my PC, I could run in Safe Mode and try deleting the nvlddmkm.sys from system32/drivers directory, then expand the nvlddmkm.sy_.

I have tried reformatting once again and Windows setup didn't complete successfully, because this error showed up again.

Answer 1

It sounds like this is a common problem... I guess you already saw this page? http://forums.techarena.in/vista-hardware-devices/689444.htm

It advises the fix you already used... I think the problem is, you are using the microsoft driver for your card, but it really should use the nvidia driver. The steps listed in that link are:

1. I uninstalled all my nvidia drivers and deleted the nvidia directory.
2. I started in safe mode because the problem was getting so bad that I couldn't even open explorer before the driver failed.
3. I found nvlddmkm.sys and renamed it to nvlddmkm.sys.old as he mentioned.
4. I installed the latest driver, which at the time of me writing this was 195.62 WHQL
5. I restarted and it works great.

So first download the newest nvidia driver, save it somewhere, try to get into safe mode and install it.

Answer 2

If you use an old AGP card, check AGP x and make sure AGP Aperture size matches your Video Adapter's RAM. This solved the issue for me.. Hope this helps..