This article provides comprehensive information about the Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35, specifically designed for Windows 7 64-bit operating systems. This driver package focuses on systems without integrated graphics processing (IGP). Released on May 12, 2009, this driver suite aims to provide optimal performance and stability for various Nvidia nForce chipsets. It’s crucial to understand the components included and the supported hardware to ensure compatibility and proper installation.
Overview
The Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 package is a collection of drivers and utilities intended to support core system functionalities. Unlike some driver packages, this particular release excludes drivers for integrated graphics solutions. This focus makes it suitable for systems using dedicated graphics cards paired with compatible nForce chipsets. Users with integrated graphics should seek alternative driver packages designed for their specific hardware configuration.
This package includes essential drivers for Ethernet connectivity, network management, SATA controllers (both IDE and RAID), system management, and the necessary installer components. Each component plays a vital role in the overall stability and performance of a Windows 7 64-bit system utilizing an Nvidia nForce chipset.
Key Components and Driver Versions
The Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 package incorporates several key drivers, each with specific version numbers. These versions are important to note for troubleshooting and ensuring compatibility. The driver versions included are:
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Ethernet Driver (v73.06) WHQL: This driver enables network connectivity through the Ethernet port, ensuring stable and reliable internet access. The WHQL (Windows Hardware Quality Labs) certification indicates that the driver has been tested and approved by Microsoft for compatibility and stability.
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Network Management Tools (v73.05) "Sedona": This suite of tools provides utilities for managing network connections and settings. The codename "Sedona" may refer to a specific feature set or internal project name associated with this release.
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SATAIDE Driver (v11.1.0.23) WHQL: This driver controls the Serial ATA (SATA) interface in IDE mode, allowing the operating system to communicate with hard drives and solid-state drives connected through SATA. The WHQL certification, again, signifies Microsoft’s approval.
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SATARAID Driver (v11.1.0.23) WHQL: Similar to the SATAIDE driver, this driver manages the SATA interface, but specifically in RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) mode. RAID allows for combining multiple physical drives into a single logical unit for increased performance or data redundancy. The WHQL certification ensures stability and compatibility.
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RAIDTOOL Application (v11.1.0.23): This application provides a user interface for configuring and managing RAID arrays. It allows users to create, monitor, and troubleshoot RAID configurations.
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SMU Driver (v1.67) WHQL: The System Management Unit (SMU) driver manages various system-level functions, including power management, thermal monitoring, and other hardware-related controls. WHQL certification ensures reliability.
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Installer (v7.01): This component is responsible for installing all the drivers and utilities included in the package. It guides the user through the installation process and ensures that all necessary files are properly installed.
Supported Products
The Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 package supports a range of Nvidia nForce chipsets, primarily those designed for Intel and AMD platforms. It is crucial to verify that your motherboard’s chipset is listed below before attempting to install this driver package. Installing the wrong drivers can lead to system instability or hardware malfunction.
The supported chipsets include:
- nForce 790i Ultra SLI
- nForce 790i SLI
- nForce 780i SLI
- nForce 750i SLI
- nForce 740a SLI
- nForce 710a SLI
- nForce 680i SLI
- nForce 680i LT SLI
- nForce 680a SLI
- nForce 650i SLI
- nForce 650i Ultra
- nForce 590 SLI AMD
- nForce 570 SLI AMD
- nForce 570 Ultra AMD
- nForce 550
Downloading and Installing the Driver
It is important to note that this driver was released in 2009, and newer drivers may be available for your chipset from Nvidia’s website or your motherboard manufacturer’s website. However, if you need this specific version, you can find it at the following link:
Here are alternative download links, recognizing that older drivers can be difficult to locate:
- Softpedia: (Search Softpedia for "Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 Windows 7 64-bit") – Note: Specific link may vary based on Softpedia’s organization.
- DriverGuide: (Search DriverGuide for "Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 Windows 7 64-bit") – Note: Requires registration on DriverGuide.
- Guru3D: (Check Guru3D’s driver archives) – Note: Availability is not guaranteed.
- Archive.org (Wayback Machine): (Search Archive.org for the original Nvidia driver download page) – Note: Availability depends on if the page was archived.
- MajorGeeks: (Search MajorGeeks for "Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 Windows 7 64-bit") – Note: Availability not guaranteed.
The filename for this driver package is 15.35_nforce_win7_64bit_international_whql.exe. After downloading, double-click the executable file to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions carefully. It is recommended to close all other applications before starting the installation. A system restart may be required after the installation is complete.
Considerations and Potential Issues
- Compatibility: Double-check that your motherboard’s chipset is listed in the supported products section before installing this driver.
- WHQL Certification: While the drivers are WHQL certified, older drivers may not be fully optimized for modern hardware configurations.
- Driver Conflicts: If you have previously installed other Nvidia nForce drivers, it is recommended to uninstall them before installing this package. Use the Windows Device Manager to uninstall existing drivers.
- System Stability: If you experience any system instability after installing the driver, consider rolling back to a previous driver version or updating to a newer version (if available).
- No IGP Support: This Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 package does not include drivers for integrated graphics. Ensure you have a dedicated graphics card installed and the appropriate drivers for that card.
Conclusion
The Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 for Windows 7 64-bit (without IGP) provides a set of essential drivers for systems using specific Nvidia nForce chipsets. While released in 2009, it may still be necessary for users with older hardware configurations. Always verify compatibility and exercise caution when installing older drivers to ensure system stability and optimal performance. Remember to check for newer drivers if you encounter any issues.