Startup Freeze - Vertical Lines on Screen

Hi -
Running 10.4.7 on a new Macbook - since a firmware update about two weeks ago, my macbook freezes on startup - no chime... just goes to gray screen and slowly develops vertical lines. I can restart by resetting the nvram and then everything is ok until the next restart - or wake-up from sleep if I'm only on the battery.
Apple has already replaced my battery once and that seems ok now... but this start up thing worries me.
Has anybody seen this or reported something similar to Apple? seems like it would be related to the firmware update... but they aren't saying if they're hearing it from anyone else.
Thanks for your help
Macbook   Mac OS X (10.4.7)  

Hi, Altoklez. Welcome to the Discussions.
1. You wrote: "Has anybody seen this or reported something similar to Apple"If they have, they would probably have reported it on the MacBook Discussions. Have you checked the MacBook Dicussion for similar reports?
2. Run the Apple Hardware Test (AHT) that came the affected computer. See my "Apple Hardware Test" FAQ for comprehensive advice on using the AHT in troubleshooting.
3. Frankly, given that the machine has already been repaired once, I'd have Apple look at it again. If there is an Apple Retail Store in your area, I'd recommend taking it there. You may wish to call ahead to make an appointment at the Genius Bar.
Good luck!
Dr. Smoke
Author: Troubleshooting Mac® OS X

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