The Intel USB 3.0 Driver 4.0.6.60 is a crucial software component designed to enable and optimize the functionality of USB 3.0 ports on systems equipped with specific Intel chipsets. This driver package, delivered as an executable installer ("Setup.exe"), ensures seamless communication between the operating system and the USB 3.0 eXtensible Host Controller (xHCI), maximizing data transfer speeds and overall performance of USB 3.0 devices. This article provides a detailed look at the driver, its compatibility, installation considerations, and historical context.
Understanding the Importance of USB 3.0 Drivers
USB 3.0, also known as SuperSpeed USB, offers significantly faster data transfer rates compared to its predecessor, USB 2.0. However, to achieve these speeds, a compatible host controller and corresponding driver are essential. The Intel USB 3.0 Driver 4.0.6.60 acts as the bridge, allowing the operating system to correctly identify and interact with the Intel xHCI controller. Without the correct driver, USB 3.0 ports may function only at USB 2.0 speeds, negating the benefits of the faster standard.
Target Chipsets and Processors
The Intel USB 3.0 Driver 4.0.6.60 package is tailored for specific Intel chipset series. Understanding compatibility is critical for a successful installation and optimal performance. The original release differentiated between two main chipset families: the 8 Series and the 7 Series.
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8 Series Compatibility: The first download link, associated with the 8 Series, specifically supports a wide array of chipsets and processors. These include, but are not limited to:
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series Chipset Family
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series SMBus Controller – 8C22
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series PCI Express Root Port #1 – 8C10
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series PCI Express Root Port #2 – 8C12
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series PCI Express Root Port #3 – 8C14
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series PCI Express Root Port #4 – 8C16
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series PCI Express Root Port #5 – 8C18
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series PCI Express Root Port #6 – 8C1A
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series PCI Express Root Port #7 – 8C1E
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series USB Enhanced Host Controller #1 – 8C26
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series USB Enhanced Host Controller #2 – 8C2D
- Intel(R) 8 Series/C220 Series Thermal Management Controller – 8C24
- Intel(R) C220 Series Chipset Family
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7 Series Compatibility: The second download link caters to the 7 Series chipsets and associated processors. This includes:
- Intel(R) 7 Series/C216 Chipset Family
- Intel(R) 7 Series/C216 SMBus Controller – 1E22
- Intel(R) 7 Series/C216 PCI Express Root Port 1 – 1E10
- Intel(R) 7 Series/C216 PCI Express Root Port 2 – 1E12
- Intel(R) 7 Series/C216 USB Enhanced Host Controller – 1E26
It’s crucial to identify your system’s chipset before downloading and installing the appropriate version of the Intel USB 3.0 Driver 4.0.6.60. Incorrect installation can lead to instability or non-functional USB 3.0 ports.
Operating System Support and Considerations
The Intel USB 3.0 Driver 4.0.6.60 has specific operating system support limitations. It’s important to understand these limitations to avoid installation issues.
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Windows XP and Vista: Intel officially does not support the Intel USB 3.0 eXtensible Host Controller Driver for Windows XP or Windows Vista. For these older operating systems, the recommended approach is to configure the BIOS settings. Specifically, the xHCI Mode should be set to "Auto" or "Smart Auto." This configuration effectively disables the USB 3.0 functionality, reconfiguring the ports to operate as USB 2.0 ports, utilizing the native Windows EHCI driver.
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Windows 8: Windows 8 includes a built-in (in-box) USB 3.0 driver. As a result, Intel does not provide a separate, specific driver release for this operating system. However, if upgrading from Windows 7 to Windows 8, it is strongly recommended to uninstall any existing Intel USB 3.0 eXtensible Host Controller Drivers before initiating the upgrade process. This helps prevent potential conflicts and ensures the smooth operation of the native Windows 8 USB 3.0 driver.
Installation Process
The installation process for the Intel USB 3.0 Driver 4.0.6.60 is typically straightforward. It involves running the "Setup.exe" executable, which will guide the user through the installation steps. It is advisable to close all other applications before beginning the installation to minimize the risk of conflicts. A system reboot may be required after the installation is complete for the changes to take effect.
Where to Download
You can download the Intel USB 3.0 Driver 4.0.6.60 from the following link:
https://files01.tchspt.com/tempd/Intel_USB_3.0_eXtensible_Host_Controller_Driver_4.0.6.60.zip
Alternative Download Link:
As download links can sometimes become unavailable, here’s an alternative download link from a reputable driver repository:
Please note: Always exercise caution when downloading files from the internet. Ensure the source is trustworthy and scan the downloaded file with an up-to-date antivirus program before execution.
Historical Context and Previous Versions
The Intel USB 3.0 Driver 4.0.6.60 is not an isolated release but part of a larger series of driver updates. Intel frequently releases updated drivers to address bugs, improve performance, and enhance compatibility with newer hardware and software. Information about previous versions, such as those released in 2016-02-03 and 2015-04-07, may be available through various online resources and driver repositories. These older versions might be useful in specific cases, such as when dealing with legacy systems or troubleshooting compatibility issues with the latest driver.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While the installation process is generally smooth, users may occasionally encounter issues. Some common problems include:
- Driver installation failure: This can be caused by corrupted driver files, conflicting software, or insufficient system permissions. Try downloading the driver again from a reliable source, disabling antivirus software temporarily, and ensuring you have administrator privileges.
- USB 3.0 ports not working: After installation, if the USB 3.0 ports are not functioning, check Device Manager for any driver errors. You may need to manually update the driver by pointing Windows to the extracted driver files.
- Performance issues: If USB 3.0 devices are not performing as expected, ensure that the correct driver is installed and that the device is actually connected to a USB 3.0 port (usually indicated by a blue connector).
Conclusion
The Intel USB 3.0 Driver 4.0.6.60 is a critical component for enabling optimal performance of USB 3.0 devices on systems with compatible Intel chipsets. Understanding the driver’s compatibility, installation considerations, and troubleshooting steps can help users ensure a smooth and efficient experience with their USB 3.0 devices. By keeping your drivers up to date, you can maximize data transfer speeds, improve device compatibility, and enhance the overall performance of your system. Remember to always download drivers from trusted sources and exercise caution when installing software from the internet.