This article provides information about the Nvidia GeForce Ion Notebook Graphics Drivers 267.24 Beta, specifically designed for the Windows XP 32-bit operating system. This driver package is part of the NVIDIA Verde Notebook Driver Program, offering a reference driver solution for a range of NVIDIA notebook GPUs.
Understanding the NVIDIA Verde Notebook Driver Program
The NVIDIA Verde Notebook Driver Program aims to provide users with the latest driver updates for their NVIDIA notebook graphics cards. These drivers are intended to enhance performance, improve stability, and introduce new features. However, it is crucial to understand the role of your notebook’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in this process.
OEM Drivers vs. Reference Drivers
While NVIDIA offers these reference drivers, notebook OEMs like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and others, provide certified drivers tailored specifically for their notebook models. These OEM drivers often include customizations and optimizations to ensure optimal compatibility and performance with the specific hardware and software configurations of the notebook.
NVIDIA’s Recommendation
NVIDIA strongly recommends that users first check with their notebook OEM for recommended software updates. OEMs thoroughly test and validate drivers to ensure they work seamlessly with their systems. Using a reference driver instead of an OEM-certified driver might lead to unforeseen issues or reduced performance. OEMs may not provide technical support for problems arising from the use of NVIDIA’s reference drivers.
Pre-Installation Checklist
Before proceeding with the download and installation of the Nvidia GeForce Ion Notebook Graphics Drivers 267.24 Beta Windows XP 32-bit, consider the following:
- GPU Compatibility: Verify that your notebook’s GPU is listed under the "Supported Products" section below. Installing the driver on an unsupported GPU can lead to system instability or driver malfunction.
- System Backup: Creating a system backup is always a prudent step before installing new drivers. This allows you to revert to a previous working state if any issues arise during or after the installation.
- Dell-Specific Update: If you own a Dell Inspiron 1420, Dell XPS M1330, Dell XPS M1530, or Dell Latitude D630/D630c, it is highly recommended to install the specific Dell software update mentioned in the original release notes before installing these graphics drivers. This update likely addresses compatibility issues or enhances the driver’s performance on these specific Dell models.
Release Highlights of the 267.24 Beta Driver
The 267.24 Beta driver belongs to the Release 265 family of drivers (versions 265.xx to 269.xx). Key improvements and additions in this release include:
- SLI Support for Homefront: This driver introduces Scalable Link Interface (SLI) support for the game Homefront. SLI allows users with multiple compatible NVIDIA GPUs to combine their processing power for improved gaming performance.
- Improved Compatibility with Dragon Age II: The driver enhances compatibility with the game Dragon Age II, potentially resolving graphical glitches or performance issues.
- NVIDIA Control Panel Fix: This release addresses a bug where the NVIDIA Control Panel might not be accessible through the Windows desktop.
Additional Components Included
The Nvidia GeForce Ion Notebook Graphics Drivers 267.24 Beta Windows XP 32-bit package also includes:
- HD Audio Driver Version 1.1.13.1: This driver updates the high-definition audio component, ensuring proper audio output and functionality.
- PhysX System Software Version 9.10.0514: This updates the PhysX engine. NVIDIA PhysX is a physics engine that enhances the realism of games by simulating realistic physical interactions.
Supported NVIDIA Notebook GPUs
This driver supports a wide range of NVIDIA notebook GPUs, including:
- ION Notebook GPUs: ION (Notebooks) and ION LE (Notebooks).
- GeForce 8M, 9M, 100M, 200M, 300M, and 400M Series: This encompasses a broad spectrum of GeForce mobile GPUs, offering varying levels of performance for gaming and general use.
- Quadro 5000M: A high-end professional graphics card for demanding applications.
- Quadro NVS Series: These are business-oriented graphics cards designed for stability and multi-display support. Only models that support DirectX 10 or higher are compatible.
- Quadro FX Series: Professional-grade graphics cards for CAD, DCC, and visualization applications. Only models that support DirectX 10 or higher are compatible.
Detailed List of Supported GPUs:
- GeForce 400M Series: GTX 480M, GTX 470M, GTX 460M, GT 445M, GT 435M, GT 425M, GT 420M, GT 415M
- GeForce 300M Series: GTS 360M, GTS 350M, GTS 250M, GT 335M, GT 330M, GT 325M, GT 320M, 310M, 305M
- GeForce 200M Series: GT 230M, GT 240M, G210M, GTX 285M, GTX 280M, GTX 260M, GT 220M
- GeForce 100M Series: G 110M, GT 130M, GTS 160M, G 105M, G 103M, G 102M, GT 120M
- GeForce 9 Series: 9600 GT, 9400
- GeForce 9M Series: 9400M G, 9650M GS, 9200M GS, 9500M GS, 9400M GS, 9800M GS, 9300M GS, 9800M GT, 9100M G, 9800M GTS, 9500M G, 9700M GT, 9600M GS, 9650M GT, 9400M, 9300M G, 9800M GTX, 9600M GT, 9700M GTS
- GeForce 8M Series: 8800M GTS, 8600M GT, 8400M GT, 8200M G, 8800M GTX, 8800M GS, 8600M GS, 8400M G, 8700M GT, 8400M GS
- Quadro FX Notebook Series: 5000M, FX 3800M, FX 3700M, FX 360M, FX 1600M, FX 380M, FX 370M, FX 3600M, FX 2800M, FX 2700M, FX 880M, FX 770M, FX 570M, FX 1800M, FX 1700M
- Quadro NVS Notebook Series: NVS 2100M, NVS 5100M, NVS 3100M, NVS 150M, NVS 160M, NVS 140M, NVS 320M, NVS 130M, NVS 135M
Important Notes and Exclusions
- Hybrid Power Technology: Notebooks with Hybrid Power technology that use Intel chipsets are not supported by this driver release.
- Sony VAIO Support: Only specific Sony VAIO F Series notebooks equipped with NVIDIA GeForce 310M, NVIDIA GeForce GT 335M, or NVIDIA GeForce GT 425M are supported. Other Sony VAIO notebooks are not supported at this time. Contact Sony for driver support for other models.
- Fujitsu Notebooks: Fujitsu notebooks are not supported by this release. However, Fujitsu Siemens notebooks are supported.
Download Links
Before downloading, remember NVIDIA’s recommendation to check with your OEM first. If you still want to proceed, you can find the driver at the following locations:
- TechSpot: https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/15003/
- Alternative Download Links: Disclaimer: Use these links at your own risk. Always scan downloaded files with an antivirus program before installation.
- archive.org (unofficial archive): (Search on archive.org for "Nvidia GeForce Ion Notebook Graphics Drivers 267.24 Beta Windows XP 32-bit")
- driverzone.com (driver repository): (Search on driverzone.com for "Nvidia GeForce Ion Notebook Graphics Drivers 267.24 Beta Windows XP 32-bit")
- softpedia.com (driver repository): (Search on softpedia.com for "Nvidia GeForce Ion Notebook Graphics Drivers 267.24 Beta Windows XP 32-bit")
- nvidia.com (official nvidia driver archive): (Search on nvidia.com for "Nvidia GeForce Ion Notebook Graphics Drivers 267.24 Beta Windows XP 32-bit")
- filehorse.com (driver repository): (Search on filehorse.com for "Nvidia GeForce Ion Notebook Graphics Drivers 267.24 Beta Windows XP 32-bit")
Conclusion
The Nvidia GeForce Ion Notebook Graphics Drivers 267.24 Beta Windows XP 32-bit offers updates and improvements for a range of NVIDIA notebook GPUs running on Windows XP. Remember to consider NVIDIA’s recommendation to prioritize OEM-certified drivers for optimal compatibility and support. If you choose to install this reference driver, carefully review the supported products list and follow the pre-installation checklist to minimize potential issues.