ASRock 970 Extreme4 CIR Driver 2.5.1003 for Windows 8

This article provides information regarding the ASRock 970 Extreme4 CIR (Consumer Infrared) driver version 2.5.1003, specifically designed for the Windows 8 operating system. It aims to offer a clear overview of the driver, its purpose, relevant details, and where to obtain it. While the original information is somewhat limited, this article will extrapolate and provide context to assist users in understanding and potentially utilizing this driver for their ASRock 970 Extreme4 motherboards running Windows 8.

Understanding the ASRock 970 Extreme4 Motherboard

The ASRock 970 Extreme4 is a motherboard that was popular for its compatibility with AMD processors. Motherboards like the ASRock 970 Extreme4 provide the foundational infrastructure for a computer system, connecting the CPU, RAM, graphics card, storage devices, and peripherals. Given its release timeframe, it likely catered to users looking for a cost-effective and feature-rich solution for building a gaming or general-purpose PC.

The Role of CIR (Consumer Infrared)

CIR stands for Consumer Infrared. It’s a technology that allows a computer to receive signals from infrared remote controls. This functionality enables users to control media playback, volume, and other system functions from a distance using a compatible remote. This was a common feature on media center PCs and some desktop systems, providing a convenient alternative to using a mouse and keyboard for basic control. The ASRock 970 Extreme4 motherboard included a CIR header, allowing users to connect an external CIR receiver.

The Significance of the CIR Driver

The CIR driver acts as the software bridge between the CIR receiver hardware and the Windows 8 operating system. Without the correct driver, the operating system will not be able to recognize or interpret the signals sent by the infrared remote control. This means that the CIR functionality will not work. The driver translates the infrared signals into actions that the operating system can understand, enabling the user to control the computer using the remote.

ASRock 970 Extreme4 CIR Driver 2.5.1003: Details and Context

Based on the available information, the ASRock 970 Extreme4 CIR Driver version 2.5.1003 was released on October 2, 2012, suggesting it was designed to coincide with or shortly after the release of Windows 8. The filename, "Nuvoton_Win8-64_Win8(v2.5.1003).zip," indicates that the driver is likely intended for 64-bit versions of Windows 8. Nuvoton is a company that manufactures various integrated circuits, including those used for I/O functions on motherboards, so it’s plausible they were the original developers of the CIR controller chip and thus the associated driver.

Why Might You Need This Driver?

If you are using an ASRock 970 Extreme4 motherboard with Windows 8 and wish to utilize the CIR functionality with an infrared remote, installing this driver (or a compatible alternative) is crucial. Here are some scenarios where this driver becomes relevant:

• Fresh Windows 8 Installation: If you have recently installed Windows 8 on your ASRock 970 Extreme4 system, the operating system may not automatically install the correct CIR driver.
• CIR Functionality Not Working: If you have a CIR receiver connected to your motherboard, but the remote control is not working, the driver may be missing or corrupted.
• Driver Conflicts: If you have previously installed a different CIR driver that is causing conflicts, installing the ASRock-provided driver may resolve the issue.

Locating and Installing the Driver

The original article provides the filename "Nuvoton_Win8-64_Win8(v2.5.1003).zip," which can be used to search for the driver online. Given the age of the driver, it may not be readily available on ASRock’s official website. Here’s how you can proceed:

1. Search Online: Use a search engine (e.g., Google, Bing) and enter the filename "Nuvoton_Win8-64_Win8(v2.5.1003).zip" to locate potential download sources.
2. Check Driver Repositories: Websites specializing in driver archives often host older drivers. Examples include DriverGuide.com or Softpedia.com. Exercise caution when downloading drivers from third-party sources, ensuring the website is reputable and the file is scanned for viruses.
3. ASRock Website (Potential): Even though it’s an older driver, it’s worth checking the ASRock website for the 970 Extreme4 motherboard. Navigate to the support or download section and search for drivers compatible with Windows 8.
4. Alternative Download Link:
   • Driver Download Link (Softpedia)

Installation Instructions

Once you have downloaded the driver package (typically a ZIP file), follow these steps to install it:

1. Extract the Files: Extract the contents of the ZIP file to a folder on your hard drive.
2. Locate the Setup File: Look for a setup.exe file or a similar executable file within the extracted folder.
3. Run the Setup: Double-click the setup file to launch the driver installation wizard.
4. Follow the On-Screen Instructions: Follow the prompts in the installation wizard to complete the driver installation. You may need to restart your computer after the installation is complete.

Manual Installation (If No Setup File)

If the driver package does not include a setup file, you may need to install the driver manually through Device Manager:

1. Open Device Manager: Press the Windows key + R, type "devmgmt.msc," and press Enter.
2. Locate the Unknown Device: Look for an "Unknown device" or a device with a yellow exclamation mark under "Other devices" or a similar category. This likely represents the CIR receiver.
3. Update Driver Software: Right-click on the unknown device and select "Update driver software."
4. Browse My Computer: Choose "Browse my computer for driver software."
5. Specify the Driver Folder: Browse to the folder where you extracted the driver files and select it.
6. Include Subfolders: Make sure the "Include subfolders" option is checked.
7. Install the Driver: Click "Next" to install the driver. Windows will attempt to install the driver from the specified location.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues installing or using the ASRock 970 Extreme4 CIR Driver, consider the following troubleshooting steps:

• Compatibility: Ensure the driver is compatible with your version of Windows 8 (32-bit or 64-bit).
• Driver Conflicts: Check Device Manager for any driver conflicts. If you find any, try uninstalling the conflicting driver and reinstalling the CIR driver.
• Hardware Issues: Verify that the CIR receiver is properly connected to the motherboard’s CIR header.
• Remote Control Batteries: Ensure the batteries in your infrared remote control are fresh and working correctly.
• Driver Signature: Windows 8 may require digitally signed drivers. If you encounter an error related to driver signature, you may need to temporarily disable driver signature enforcement in Windows. Be cautious when doing this and re-enable it afterward.

Conclusion

The ASRock 970 Extreme4 CIR Driver 2.5.1003 for Windows 8 is a specific piece of software enabling the Consumer Infrared functionality on the ASRock 970 Extreme4 motherboard. While finding and installing older drivers can be challenging, this guide provides information and steps to help you locate, install, and troubleshoot this driver. By understanding the role of the CIR driver and following the outlined procedures, you can potentially restore or enable infrared remote control functionality on your Windows 8 system using the ASRock 970 Extreme4 motherboard. Remember to exercise caution when downloading drivers from unofficial sources and always scan files for potential threats before installing them.