This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Nvidia Quadro Display Driver 340.66, specifically tailored for 32-bit versions of Windows 7 and Windows 8 operating systems. This driver package is designed for Nvidia Quadro desktop and notebook GPUs, offering support for OpenGL hardware acceleration within Windows Remote Desktop environments, as well as CUDA 6.5 capabilities. This in-depth look will cover its purpose, key features, supported products, and important considerations for installation.
Understanding ODE Drivers and the R340 Branch
The Nvidia Quadro Display Driver 340.66 falls under the category of "Optimal Drivers for Enterprise" (ODE). The R340 branch represents the seventh iteration of these ODE drivers. These drivers are built for long-term stability, making them ideal for professional environments where reliability and compatibility with Independent Software Vendor (ISV) certifications are paramount. OEMs and enterprise clients benefit from the rigorous testing and validation processes these drivers undergo. Choosing an ODE driver ensures a consistent and predictable experience, minimizing disruptions caused by frequent updates.
Last Updated: August 14, 2014
Filename: 340.66-quadro-grid-desktop-notebook-win8-win7-32bit-international-whql.exe
This particular release of the Nvidia Quadro Display Driver 340.66 is a WHQL-certified (Windows Hardware Quality Labs) driver, which signifies that it has passed Microsoft’s testing standards for compatibility and stability within the Windows environment. WHQL certification assures users that the driver is less likely to cause system crashes or conflicts with other hardware and software.
Key Features and Enhancements in Nvidia Quadro Display Driver 340.66
While the original document lacks specific details about the new features in this release, the general nature of ODE drivers suggests a focus on stability, performance optimizations for professional applications, and continued support for existing hardware. Typically, these drivers would include:
- OpenGL Hardware Acceleration: Improved performance for applications that rely heavily on OpenGL, especially within Windows Remote Desktop sessions. This allows for smoother remote rendering and visualization workflows.
- CUDA 6.5 Support: Enables developers and users to leverage the parallel processing capabilities of Nvidia Quadro GPUs for computationally intensive tasks, using the CUDA 6.5 programming toolkit.
- ISV Certifications: Compliance with industry-standard software certifications, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance with professional applications used in fields like CAD, CAM, DCC (Digital Content Creation), and scientific visualization.
Important Considerations for Notebook Users
The Nvidia Quadro Display Driver 340.66 also addresses notebook users. It’s crucial to understand the following points before installing this driver on a laptop:
- No Windows Vista Support: Quadro Notebook drivers within the 340.66 package are not compatible with Windows Vista 32-bit or 64-bit operating systems.
- Reference Driver: This driver is considered a reference driver, meaning it can be installed on supported Nvidia notebook GPUs. However, it’s essential to check with your notebook’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for certified drivers specific to your model.
- OEM Recommendation: Nvidia strongly advises checking with your notebook OEM for recommended software updates. OEMs often customize drivers to optimize performance and stability for their specific hardware configurations.
- OEM Support: Be aware that OEMs may not provide technical support for issues arising from the use of this reference driver. If you encounter problems, the OEM might direct you to use their certified drivers instead.
Dell Notebook Users: 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 relevant Dell software update before installing the Nvidia Quadro Display Driver 340.66. This pre-installation step can help prevent compatibility issues and ensure proper driver functionality.
Supported Products
The original document does not explicitly list the supported products for this driver version. However, the Nvidia Quadro Display Driver 340.66 typically supports a range of Quadro desktop and notebook GPUs available at the time of its release. To determine if your specific Quadro GPU is supported, consult the driver’s release notes or the Nvidia website. General, driver would support such products as:
- Quadro Series (e.g., Quadro K600, K2000, K4000, K5000, K6000)
- NVS Series (e.g., NVS 310, NVS 510)
- Mobile Quadro Series (e.g., Quadro K1100M, K2100M, K3100M)
It’s always best to verify compatibility before installation to avoid potential issues.
Installation and Troubleshooting
Before installing the Nvidia Quadro Display Driver 340.66, it’s recommended to:
- Create a System Restore Point: This allows you to revert to a previous state if any problems occur during or after installation.
- Uninstall Previous Drivers: Use the Windows Device Manager to uninstall any existing Nvidia drivers. You can also use a driver removal tool for a more thorough cleaning.
- Download the Correct Driver: Ensure you download the correct version of the driver for your operating system (Windows 7/8 32-bit).
If you encounter any issues during installation or after, consult the Nvidia support website or the documentation provided with the driver.
Download Links
Here are the download links for the Nvidia Quadro Display Driver 340.66 for Windows 7/8 32-bit:
- Original Download Link: 340.66-quadro-grid-desktop-notebook-win8-win7-32bit-international-whql.exe
- Alternative Download Link: https://www.nvidia.com/Download/driverResults.aspx/77500/en-us (Please verify that this alternative link provides the exact driver version before downloading).
Disclaimer: Always download drivers from trusted sources like the official Nvidia website or your notebook OEM’s website to avoid malware or corrupted files.
Conclusion
The Nvidia Quadro Display Driver 340.66 for Windows 7/8 32-bit is a crucial component for users of Nvidia Quadro desktop and notebook GPUs. As an ODE driver, it prioritizes stability and compatibility, making it well-suited for professional environments. While it’s important to check with your notebook OEM for certified drivers specific to your hardware, this driver package offers essential support for OpenGL hardware acceleration, CUDA 6.5, and ISV certifications. By carefully considering the information provided in this article, users can make informed decisions about whether to install this driver and how to ensure a smooth and successful installation process. Remember to prioritize downloading from official sources and creating a system restore point before proceeding.