Macbook Pro Creating Graphical Errors and Freezing

Question

My Macbook Pro is just under 2 1/2 years old now. I bought it in August of '06.
Heres my problem. About 6 months ago, my computer started leaving graphical errors on the screen. For example:
http://www.andponcho.com/minibus/images//graphicalerror2.jpg
http://www.andponcho.com/minibus/images//graphicalerror3.jpg
These errors are from when I minimized a window.
Not only does it do that, but sometimes there could be a line left up on the screen, this happens especially when I browse on Safari.
Another error happening is sometimes a triangle may appear on my screen. It may be a cyan, magenta, or a yellow tint. It happens randomly.
Thats not the worst part. Recently, I played WoW on my computer and it was causing all sorts of graphical errors on my screen. And if that didn't happen, my computer would just randomly freeze. I was unable to play the game. Mind you, 2 years ago, I played WoW on this very same computer and never had any problems while playing.
This is where it gets frustrating. Like I mentioned above, my computer tends to freeze...about 6 to 7 times a week. I don't know how many times I've been working in Photoshop and my computer would just lock up on me. The worst part is I use Skype everyday and its happens, my screen locks, but the person on the other end can still hear me and I can hear them.
I've done a bit of research on the web and the only thing I found out that may be causing the errors is my logic board. I first thing I thought of when my computer started to freeze was it may be getting too hot. I downloaded smcFanControl to control my fans to move more heat out. I've also noticed my computer temp could reach 170 degrees Fahrenheit .The fans do seem to help a bit, but I still get errors all the time.
Is it the logic board? Or is it something else? Could I have caused this? I spent $3000 on this computer. I'm an art student and my computer is my life. I can't afford to replace a $1000 part.

Answer 1

Welcome to Apple Discussions!
Have you tried running the extended version of the Apple Hardware Test? It is on Install Disc #1 of the gray discs that originally came with your computer. You boot to it by holding down "D" and follow the instructions on the screen. If you get an error code, it would point to what the problem is. Try running it when your computer is malfunctioning.
Do you get the same artifacts on an external display? If so, that would indicate a graphics chip problem. If not, then it could be a problem with the built in display or its connections.
Freezing can have many causes, both hardware and software related. Aside from the logic board, a dying hard drive can also cause freezing. It would be prudent to make a good backup and keep it up to date, just in case your computer stops working altogether some day.
You can download this utility for free and use it to check out your hard drive:
S.M.A.R.T. Utility
http://www.versiontracker.com/dyn/moreinfo/macosx/32454
It actually sounds more like you logic board and graphics chip, since the problem seems to be heat related and occurs during graphics intense applications. But it wouldn't hurt to eliminate the hard drive as a factor.
You might try a chill mat and see if that helps with the heat problem.
Do you by any chance have 3 year Applecare? If so, it's still under warranty and any repairs should be covered.
Good luck!