Defective graphics cards allowed to slip into the channel

Digitimes.com yesterday reported that MD’s official graphics card diagnostic and validation software was recently discovered to have a bug that failed to detect defective ATI Radeon HD 2400 and 2600 graphics cards, according to sources at graphics card makers.

Vendors pointed out the problem with the cards is down to an error in the BIOS application process. The cards will now all have to be returned to the makers to be restored. One maker has already recalled in between 20,000 – 30,000 units.

The problem had effects on several small makers, however Asustek Computer, Micro-Star International (MSI) and Gigabyte Technology all experienced the problem too, noted the sources.

AMD said "that Radeon HD 2400 and 2600 chips are thoroughly inspected prior to shipping to graphics card makers. This was an isolated incident and measures were taken to solve the issue as soon as it was detected."