The error code 0x00000116 is associated with a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) in Windows and refers to the bug check message VIDEO_TDR_FAILURE. This indicates a critical system issue related to the Timeout Detection and Recovery (TDR) mechanism for your graphics card.

Understanding VIDEO_TDR_FAILURE:

• Timeout Detection and Recovery (TDR): TDR is a built-in Windows feature that monitors the graphics card. If the graphics card appears unresponsive for a certain period, TDR attempts to recover by resetting the graphics driver. This can happen during various scenarios, such as:

  • The graphics card encounters a hardware problem.
  • The graphics driver experiences a bug or instability.
  • The system becomes overloaded, and the graphics card can’t keep up with the demands.

• Failure to Recover: The 0x00000116 error signifies that the TDR mechanism detected a problem with the graphics card but failed to recover from it by resetting the driver. This leads to a system crash (BSOD).

Possible Causes of 0x00000116:

• Faulty or Outdated Graphics Driver: The most common culprit is a problem with the graphics driver. Outdated or incompatible drivers can lead to instability and communication issues between the graphics card and the operating system, potentially triggering a TDR failure.
• Overheating Graphics Card: If your graphics card is overheating due to dust buildup, inadequate cooling, or excessive overclocking, it might become unresponsive and trigger a TDR event.
• Hardware Issues (Less Likely): In rare cases, underlying hardware problems with the graphics card itself could contribute to the error.
• Software Bugs (Less Likely): Bugs in specific programs or games that heavily rely on graphics processing might, in rare cases, overload the graphics card and lead to a TDR failure.

Troubleshooting Steps for 0x00000116:

Here’s how to address the 0x00000116 error:

1. Update Graphics Driver:

   • This is the primary step. Download and install the latest graphics driver for your video card from the manufacturer’s website (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel). Uninstall the existing driver using a driver cleaner tool before installing the new one (consult the manufacturer’s website for recommended tools).

2. Check for Overheating:

   • Ensure your computer’s ventilation is adequate and dust-free. Clean the inside of your computer to remove dust buildup from the fans and heatsink of the graphics card.
   • If you’ve overclocked your graphics card, consider reverting to factory settings to see if the BSOD resolves. Overclocking can sometimes lead to overheating issues.
   • Monitor your graphics card’s temperature using software tools designed for this purpose. If the temperatures consistently reach high levels even under normal use, consult a technician for further diagnostics.

3. System File Checker (SFC) Scan:

   • Open Command Prompt (Admin).

   • Type the following command and press Enter:

     <code data-test-id="code-content" data-sourcepos="38:6-40:17">sfc /scannow
     </code>

   • This command scans your system files and attempts to repair any corrupted system files that might be indirectly affecting graphics driver functionality.

4. DISM Scan (if SFC fails):

   • If the SFC scan fails to repair the corrupt file, you can try using the Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) tool, which can address broader system image corruption issues.

     • Open Command Prompt (Admin).

     • Type the following command and press Enter (this can take time):

       <code data-test-id="code-content" data-sourcepos="50:8-52:49">DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
       </code>

     • After DISM finishes, rerun the SFC scan as mentioned in step 3.

5. Test with Minimal Programs:

   • In rare cases, conflicting software might contribute to the issue. Try starting your computer in Safe Mode with minimal drivers and programs loaded to see if the BSOD persists. This can help isolate software conflicts.

Additional Tips:

• Keep your Windows system updated with the latest patches and security fixes.
• Avoid installing graphics drivers from unreliable sources. Always rely on the manufacturer’s website for compatible drivers.
• If you suspect a failing graphics card based on visual artifacts or other symptoms, consult a technician for further hardware diagnostics.
• Consider underclocking your graphics card slightly if overclocking was attempted (advanced users). This can sometimes improve stability.

By focusing on graphics driver updates, ensuring proper cooling for your graphics card, system file integrity checks, and potential software conflicts, you can increase your chances of resolving the 0x00000116 error and preventing future BSODs related to graphics processing.