Hello there
I think I have a similar problem with my HTPC.
My kit is as follows
HTPC- Asus A8N VM CSM
it ships with on board Nvidia 6150 VGA which has both VGA and DVI out.
I use a SIM2 Domino 30H
... and connect using a Mark grant 15 metre HDMI>DVI cable.
Ever since i built the HTPC i have had intermittent problems with a purple screen.
This occurs on the boot splash screen (ASUS) and through the XP POST screen and then the login and of course the desktop.
I thought it was a problem with the on board VGA so I purchased a 6600 PCI-e card a week ago and to my absolute amazement i still have the same problem.
I have used this new card and the OBG with VGA output to a plug&play monitor and never a problem.
This is driving me mad. I now am suspecting the cable or even the PJ.
I have the same problem with my cable except I installed it in the ceiling.
I could get it out but its gonna be grief.
I don't really know what i actually do to get rid of the problem except I keep unplugging the power to the HTPC, I take out the DVi cable, reboot and then hope it boots correctly.
This may take a couple of hours sometimes of constant rebooting.
What I did do the other evening was switch of using the power supply switch unplug all cables (DVI, ethernet & power) and then switch the power supply switch to the on position. I understand that this discharges any excess voltage present in the circuitry.
I then plugged everything back in and it was fine.
This problem is doing my head in because I have spent nearly £5K on my kit and it don't work properly.
I don't mind the problem if i knew the cause I could then apply a solution.
It definitly is only a DVI problem not VGA.
I did find a tip doing a google and it was as follows:
In windows hit Start-run and type "services.msc" and hit enter.
You will open a registry screen.
In the RH window scroll down and find Nvidia display drivers.
double click and a new properties window opens.
Next to "start up type" there is a drop down list which should be set to "automatic"
Click the drop down and select manual.
Under service status select "Stop" and then click apply.
Close all windows.
This may help you. it hasn't helped me though
Come on all of you... someone must know whats causing this issue.
Regards