Video Card

Thank you, JMICHAEL.  I have " Intel (R) G33/G31 Express Chipset Family".  How can I tell if it is working properly?  I have already updated the driver twice!  Thanks.

HERE is your manual for the information you are looking for.  I am not sure if you have a dedicated PCIe x16 video card or integrated graphics.  You can go to Device Manager by pressing your windows + Pause/Break keys and then click Device Manager on the upper left.  Under Display Adapters your card/adapter is identified and you can see if it is working properly. 

Right click on the adapter and go to properties.  Look under device status.  It should say it is working properly.  You really do not have to update a driver for an integrated graphics chip.   Generally, only dedicated video cards require regular driver updates because of support for new cards and games that come out and these new driver versions will often be every month. 

Thanks.  The troubleshooter states it's working okay.  Here is my problem.....since mid-April the monitor has been  "flashing", with a black bar (about 1/8 inch wide extending across the window horizontally.  It flashes every 1-2 seconds, and it happens AFTER the computer and monitor have been on for about an hour or so.  I have been discussing it with Dell support and I have updated the driver three times and updated the BIOS once.  They would like me to do a PC Restore, which removes all programs and settings and restores the PC to its original condition with all settings and programs at the time it was purchased.  If that doesn't work, they inform me that the next recourse is to reinstall the operating system!!!  This seems like a very drastic measure to me, and I really don't wish to do it, unless I have exhausted all avenues. I bought the computer new 14 months ago, and my hardware is under warranty.  Anymore info or ideas is appreciated.

Dell support always resorts to a PC Restore to fix problems.  I remember them telling me to do it at one time but I just had too much to reinstall and figured out the problem myself which had nothing to do with spyware like they said.  Since you have had your computer for 14 months, you may have a lot of programs to reinstall.  Did Dell at all think that it could be a problem with the monitor or the cable?  If you can, I would try to hook up your computer to another monitor to see if you get the same problem.  I have never had something go wrong with an integrated graphics chip unless you install the wrong driver or chipset software for it.  Having to reinstall the operating system would be my last resort if I could not get anything else to work. 

I ran a Dell Diagnostics on the computer today, and when it came to the full-page color test, the white began flashing!  I immediately contacted Dell Support with the info and they asked if I could test another monitor onto my computer.  I will do that next week.  If I don't get the problem, it's the monitor; if I do, it's the motherboard.  At which time, they will provide me with either a new monitor or motherboard.....as part of my extended warranty. 

I agree....it has been one of the most frustrating experiences.....dealing with Dell Support.  They really do have a quick trigger finger for PC Restore.  Thanks for the info.