satman

Hi Ocko and any others with the same problem.
Just a follow up to the last post, Ive over written windows xp pro with a full version of Vista Ultimate 64bit. This has now given me the flexibility to reinstall the majority of the original x57 drivers. Ok,. the downside is that the disc doesnt contain a suitable nVidia go 7400 driver and the Intel chipset drivers,. (Intel 64bit are probably available from intel website - which is my next step ) but all that aside, the laptop is now 90% functional and stable, which is the most important aspect at this time. Now considering that the x57 is, without its re-badging the same as the other two models I mentioned earlier I feel it can only be a matter of time (hopefully) before I resolve the rest !! Here's to it !!
As a matter of interest having lost a number of functions in Vista at earlier stages,. managers,. etc etc when the laptop wasn't showing any signs of graphics problems Im almost convinced that this is a hardcore case of intermittent malfunctions occouring through the Vista OS and nothing at all to do with faulty components. I suspect what Vista is doing is conducting its own private hatred campaign against the Intel and nVidia software (some incompatabilities I wouldnt wonder ?? ). I could be wrong but its pointing in that direction so far.