have checked and double checked the mining pool settings.  it reads

cast_xmr -S xmr-us-west1.nanopool.org:14444.  Also tried it with 14443.  Only subbed in the word "west" for the default "east".  This is my second time setting this up after my initial install.  Worked fine the first time.  After windows reinstall (x 2) it has always had problems.  I have installed and reinstalled 3 different Cast versions and rebuilt the .bat file numerous times.

Any other thoughts?

will do. i have carefully reinstalled, trying several versions and folder locations several times.  My thoughts overnight were something with virus protection.  Caught animage of teh very brief window using video and freezing.  here si teh image:

I run vega 64x8, windows 10-64.  cast was running greatn but I had to do a windows reinstall.  Downloaded current Cast version and drivers as before.  When I launch Cast it closes immediately.  You just see a black window, then nothing.  Please help.

I run vega 64x8, windows 10-64.  cast was running greatn but I had to do a windows reinstall.  Downloaded current Cast version and drivers as before.  When I launch Cast it closes immediately.  You just see a black window, then nothing.  Please help.