i had the exact same problem.., i had an expensive graphics card and all.., professional no less but would render maya 7 but not past that.

then i was told there is such a thing called Open GL 2, and my graphics card didnt have it. it is a NEW open GL, designed to make people like us spend money (thats my opinion )

I rebuilt the machine (bad news ah) because as i brought the new graphics card i decided to get more HD space.., then a new processor, ect.., in the end i got a complete new machine and put the old HDs in external cases, and put SATA drives in the tower.., ect

now it rips the bag.., dual processor.., ect

let me guess.., you can not get high view port render either?? correct??

get a new graphics card... make sure it is up to date. i got a GeForce 8500GT.., its a gamers card i found out buit it certainly works well on all levels (except occasionally the viewport goes black if i am downloading updates and such at the same time i am using maya) and renders dam quick.

M