Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06

The Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06 represents a significant iteration in Nvidia’s professional-grade driver series, specifically designed to optimize performance and stability for Quadro, GRID, and NVS graphics processing units (GPUs). This driver package, compatible with a wide range of Windows operating systems from XP to 10 in both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures, caters to both desktop and notebook configurations, making it a versatile solution for diverse professional environments. Released on November 16, 2016, it signified Nvidia’s commitment to providing timely updates and feature enhancements to its professional user base.

This article delves into the specifics of the Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06, exploring its intended audience, key features, supported hardware, and considerations for installation. We will also provide links to download this driver, ensuring users can access and benefit from its optimizations.

Understanding Quadro New Feature (QNF) Drivers

The Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06 is classified as a Quadro New Feature (QNF) driver. Understanding what this designation entails is crucial for determining if this driver is the right fit for your specific needs. QNF drivers, unlike Optimal Drivers for Enterprise (ODE), are released more frequently and contain the latest features and functionalities. They are targeted toward end-users who require immediate access to new capabilities, bug fixes, and support for emerging technologies. These might include support for new VR headsets, game engines, or specific feature enhancements.

While QNF drivers offer cutting-edge functionality, they might not undergo the same rigorous testing and validation processes as ODE drivers. ODE drivers are designed for long-term stability and are preferred by ISVs (Independent Software Vendors), OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers), and enterprise customers who prioritize reliability for mission-critical applications. Therefore, the Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06 is primarily intended for users who need the latest features and are willing to accept a slightly higher risk of encountering unforeseen issues.

Key Features and Enhancements in Version 373.06

The R370 U2 branch, to which the Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06 belongs, introduced notable improvements, particularly in the realm of Virtual Reality (VR). Specifically, this version aimed to improve frame rate consistency in VR games and applications when used with Quadro Series P6000 and P5000 graphics cards. This enhancement is crucial for providing a smooth and immersive VR experience, minimizing motion sickness and maximizing user engagement.

Beyond VR optimizations, QNF drivers typically incorporate bug fixes, performance improvements, and support for new software and hardware. While the release notes for the Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06 should be consulted for a comprehensive list of changes, users could generally expect enhancements across various professional applications, including CAD, DCC, and scientific visualization.

Supported Hardware

The Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06 boasts broad compatibility across a wide range of Nvidia professional GPUs. The supported product families include:

Quadro Series: Encompasses a broad spectrum of Quadro desktop GPUs designed for professional workstations.
Quadro Series (Notebooks): Specifically tailored for mobile workstations, these GPUs offer professional-grade performance in a portable form factor. It is important to note that Quadro Notebook drivers are not supported on Windows Vista 32/64-bit Operating Systems.
Quadro Blade/Embedded Series: Designed for specialized applications requiring compact form factors and ruggedized designs.
Quadro NVS Series: Optimized for multi-display environments and professional graphics applications where stability and reliability are paramount.
Quadro NVS Series (Notebooks): Mobile counterparts to the Quadro NVS series, enabling multi-display support on laptops.
Quadro Plex Series: High-performance, multi-GPU solutions designed for demanding visualization and rendering tasks.
Quadro Sync Series: Enables frame-locked synchronization across multiple displays for immersive visualization environments.
GRID Series: GPUs designed for virtualized environments, enabling remote access to professional graphics applications.
NVS Series: Entry-level professional graphics solutions for business and enterprise environments.
NVS Series (Notebooks): Mobile versions of the NVS series, providing basic professional graphics capabilities in laptops.

It is essential to consult the official Nvidia documentation to confirm the compatibility of the Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06 with your specific GPU model.

Important Considerations Before Installation

Before installing the Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06, consider the following:

Notebook OEM Drivers: If you are using a Quadro notebook GPU, Nvidia recommends checking with your notebook’s OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) for certified drivers. OEMs often customize drivers to optimize performance and stability for specific notebook models. Using a generic Nvidia driver might result in compatibility issues or reduced performance. OEMs may not provide technical support for issues that arise from the use of this driver.
Backup Your System: As a precautionary measure, it is always advisable to create a system backup before installing any new drivers. This allows you to easily revert to a previous state if you encounter any problems.
Clean Installation: For optimal results, consider performing a clean installation of the driver. This involves uninstalling the previous driver and deleting any associated files before installing the new driver. Nvidia’s driver installer typically offers an option for a clean installation.
Read the Release Notes: Always consult the release notes accompanying the driver package. The release notes provide valuable information about new features, bug fixes, known issues, and compatibility information.

Downloading the Driver

You can download the Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06 from the following links:

Ensure that you download the correct version of the driver for your operating system (32-bit or 64-bit) and GPU model.

Previous Versions

For users who might need to revert to older drivers, here are links to some previous versions of Nvidia Quadro Graphics Drivers:

Conclusion

The Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06 is a QNF driver that offers a range of improvements and new features for Nvidia Quadro, GRID, and NVS GPUs. While it is designed for users who need the latest functionality, it is important to consider the potential trade-offs in terms of stability compared to ODE drivers. By understanding the characteristics of QNF drivers, carefully reviewing the release notes, and following the recommended installation guidelines, users can effectively leverage the Nvidia Quadro Graphics Driver 373.06 to optimize their professional workflows.