This article provides comprehensive information regarding the nVIDIA ForceWare Driver 91.47, specifically designed for 64-bit versions of Windows XP and Server 2003. This driver package, released in 2006, offers a range of enhancements, new features, and bug fixes aimed at optimizing the performance and functionality of nVIDIA graphics cards within these operating systems. Understanding the capabilities and updates included in this driver is crucial for users seeking to maximize the potential of their older hardware.
Key Updates and Enhancements
The nVIDIA ForceWare Driver 91.47 package received several updates throughout its lifecycle. Notably:
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October 17, 2006 Update: This update incorporated NVIDIA SLI profiles for three popular game titles: Battlefield 2142, Company of Heroes, and Flight Simulator X. These profiles are designed to improve performance and visual quality when running these games with multiple NVIDIA graphics cards configured in an SLI (Scalable Link Interface) setup.
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September 29, 2006 Update: An initial release kit encountered installation problems on certain PC configurations. This updated kit addressed those issues. NVIDIA advised that users who had not experienced installation problems with the original release did not need to download and install the updated version.
Core Features and Additions
Beyond the updates, the nVIDIA ForceWare Driver 91.47 introduced several core features and improvements:
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WHQL Certification: The driver is WHQL (Windows Hardware Quality Labs) certified. This certification from Microsoft indicates that the driver has undergone rigorous testing and meets specific compatibility and stability standards, ensuring a more reliable and stable user experience.
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Expanded Hardware Support: This driver version added support for NVIDIA Quad SLI configurations, allowing users to combine the power of four NVIDIA graphics cards for enhanced performance. It also introduced support for two new graphics cards: the GeForce 7600 GS AGP and the GeForce 7100 GS. This broadened the range of hardware compatible with the driver package.
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New NVIDIA Control Panel: The driver included the new NVIDIA Control Panel, a redesigned interface for managing graphics settings and customizing the user experience. The NVIDIA Control Panel offered a centralized location for adjusting display settings, 3D settings, and other graphics-related options. More information about the NVIDIA Control Panel can be found on the NVIDIA website.
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NVIDIA PureVideo Enhancements: The nVIDIA ForceWare Driver 91.47 incorporated new NVIDIA PureVideo features and enhancements designed to improve video playback quality. PureVideo technology aims to enhance the clarity, smoothness, and color accuracy of video content. Key enhancements included:
- Noise Reduction Post Processing: Reduces visual noise in video content, resulting in a cleaner and sharper image.
- Image Sharpening Post Processing: Enhances the detail and clarity of video content, making images appear sharper and more defined.
- Improved Inverse Telecine Algorithm: Improves the conversion of film-based content (typically 24 frames per second) to video formats (typically 30 or 60 frames per second), reducing artifacts and improving smoothness.
- Improved De-interlacing Algorithm: Improves the conversion of interlaced video (where each frame is composed of two fields) to progressive video (where each frame is complete), reducing flickering and improving image quality.
- Improved Compatibility with Third Party MPEG-2 Decoders: Enhanced compatibility with various MPEG-2 decoders, ensuring smoother and more reliable playback of MPEG-2 video content.
More information on PureVideo technology and system requirements can be found on the NVIDIA PureVideo website.
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DirectX and OpenGL Support: The driver provided support for Microsoft DirectX 9.0c and OpenGL 2.0, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of games and applications that utilize these graphics APIs.
Release Notes and Further Information
For a complete list of fixes and resolved issues included in the nVIDIA ForceWare Driver 91.47, users are encouraged to consult the official release notes: https://download.nvidia.com/Windows/91.47/91.47_ForceWare_Release_notes.pdf
Driver Download
The nVIDIA ForceWare Driver 91.47 for Windows XP x64 and Server 2003 x64 can be downloaded from the following link:
https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/7990/
Alternative Download Links:
Given the age of this driver, it may be challenging to find it on official channels. Here are five alternative download sources, though users should exercise caution when downloading from unofficial websites and ensure they are reputable and virus-free:
- Softpedia: (Search for "nVIDIA ForceWare 91.47 Softpedia")
- DriverGuide: (Search for "nVIDIA ForceWare 91.47 DriverGuide")
- Guru3D: (Search for "nVIDIA ForceWare 91.47 Guru3D")
- Station-Drivers: (Search for "nVIDIA ForceWare 91.47 Station-Drivers")
- FileHippo: (Search for "nVIDIA ForceWare 91.47 FileHippo")
Important Considerations for Older Hardware
When installing drivers for older hardware, it’s crucial to keep the following considerations in mind:
- Compatibility: Ensure that the driver is specifically designed for your operating system (Windows XP x64 or Server 2003 x64) and your specific NVIDIA graphics card model. Installing an incorrect driver can lead to instability or hardware malfunction.
- Driver Conflicts: Before installing the new driver, it’s recommended to completely remove any existing NVIDIA drivers from your system. This can be done through the Windows Control Panel or by using a dedicated driver removal tool.
- System Stability: After installing the driver, thoroughly test your system to ensure stability and proper functionality. Run benchmarks, play games, and perform other tasks to identify any potential issues.
- Security: Always download drivers from reputable sources to avoid malware or other security risks. Scan downloaded files with an antivirus program before installation.
- End of Life: Keep in mind that the nVIDIA ForceWare Driver 91.47 is quite old. NVIDIA no longer provides official support or updates for this driver version. Newer drivers may offer improved performance, security enhancements, and compatibility with newer applications and games. However, newer drivers may not be compatible with older hardware.
- Upgrade Considerations: If possible, consider upgrading to a more recent graphics card that is supported by current drivers. This will provide access to the latest features, performance improvements, and security updates.
In conclusion, the nVIDIA ForceWare Driver 91.47 represents a significant update for users of NVIDIA graphics cards running on Windows XP x64 and Server 2003 x64. While it’s an older driver, understanding its features and updates can help users optimize their systems and potentially improve performance. However, given its age, users should carefully consider compatibility, security, and the potential benefits of upgrading to newer hardware.