The Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 for Windows XP 64-bit represents a significant update for users of the GeForce GTX 480 and GTX 470 graphics cards. This driver package, certified by Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL), aims to enhance performance, stability, and compatibility for these specific GPUs within the Windows XP 64-bit operating environment. This article delves into the key features, bundled components, and supported technologies offered by this driver release, providing a comprehensive overview for users considering or currently utilizing it.
WHQL Certification and Target Audience
The WHQL certification signifies that the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 for Windows XP 64-bit has undergone rigorous testing by Microsoft to ensure its reliability and compatibility with the Windows XP 64-bit operating system. This certification provides users with confidence that the driver will not cause system instability or hardware conflicts. The primary target audience for this driver release is users who own either the GeForce GTX 480 or GTX 470 graphics card and are running the Windows XP 64-bit operating system.
What’s New in Driver 197.41
The Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 for Windows XP 64-bit package includes several key updates and bundled components designed to optimize the user experience. These enhancements cover various aspects, from PhysX support to HD audio capabilities, contributing to a more robust and feature-rich graphics environment.
Bundled Components
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PhysX System Software Version 9.10.0129: This driver package incorporates the PhysX system software, which allows the GPU to accelerate physics calculations in compatible games and applications. PhysX enhances realism by adding complex physical effects, such as cloth simulation, particle effects, and fluid dynamics, to the visual experience. Version 9.10.0129 represents an update to this software, potentially including bug fixes, performance improvements, and compatibility enhancements with newer games and applications that utilize PhysX.
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HD Audio Driver Version 1.0.9.1: The inclusion of the HD Audio driver ensures that the graphics card can properly output audio signals through its HDMI or DisplayPort connectors. This is particularly important for users who connect their computers to external displays or audio receivers using these interfaces. Version 1.0.9.1 likely contains improvements to audio fidelity, stability, and compatibility with various audio devices.
3D Vision Driver
For users interested in stereoscopic 3D gaming and content consumption, the driver package also provides a link to download the 3D Vision driver specifically designed for the GeForce GTX 400 series. 3D Vision technology, when combined with compatible hardware (3D Vision glasses and a 3D-ready monitor), allows users to experience games and other content in immersive 3D.
GTX 400 Series Demos
The driver package also highlights two demos designed to showcase the capabilities of the GeForce GTX 400 series:
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Supersonic Sled: This demo likely demonstrates the card’s ability to handle fast-paced, visually intensive scenarios.
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Design Garage: This demo probably showcases the card’s rendering prowess in a design or modeling environment.
Technology and API Support
The Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 for Windows XP 64-bit offers broad support for various technologies and APIs, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of applications and development environments. This comprehensive support is crucial for both gamers and developers who rely on the capabilities of the GeForce GTX 480 and GTX 470.
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CUDA Toolkit 3.0: CUDA (Compute Unified Device Architecture) is NVIDIA’s parallel computing platform and programming model that allows developers to utilize the GPU for general-purpose computing tasks. Support for CUDA Toolkit 3.0 enables developers to accelerate computationally intensive applications in fields such as scientific research, image processing, and video editing.
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DirectCompute Support (Windows 7): While the driver is designed for Windows XP 64-bit, it’s worth noting that DirectCompute is mentioned. DirectCompute is a Microsoft API that allows developers to use the GPU for general-purpose computing tasks on Windows 7 and later. While not directly applicable to Windows XP, it showcases the capabilities of the underlying hardware.
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OpenCL 1.0 (Open Computing Language): OpenCL is an open standard for parallel programming of heterogeneous systems, including GPUs, CPUs, and other processors. Support for OpenCL 1.0 allows developers to write code that can run on a variety of hardware platforms, providing flexibility and portability.
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OpenGL 3.2: OpenGL is a widely used graphics API for rendering 2D and 3D graphics. Support for OpenGL 3.2 ensures compatibility with a wide range of games and applications that utilize this API.
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Single GPU and NVIDIA SLI Technology: The driver supports both single GPU configurations and NVIDIA SLI (Scalable Link Interface) technology, which allows users to combine multiple NVIDIA GPUs to increase graphics performance. This support extends across DirectX 9, 10, 11, and OpenGL APIs, providing flexibility for users with different hardware configurations and software requirements.
Supported Products
The Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 for Windows XP 64-bit specifically supports the following graphics cards:
- GeForce GTX 470
- GeForce GTX 480
It is crucial to ensure that you have one of these cards before installing this driver, as it may not be compatible with other NVIDIA GPUs.
Installation and Download Information
Before installing the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 for Windows XP 64-bit, it is recommended to back up your system and any important data. To download the driver, you can visit the following link:
Alternative Download Links:
Given the age of this driver, it may be beneficial to have alternative download sources in case the primary link is unavailable. Here are a few potential alternative download locations:
- Softpedia: (Search for "Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 Windows XP 64-bit" on Softpedia)
- Guru3D: (Search for "Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 Windows XP 64-bit" on Guru3D)
- DriverGuide: (Search for "Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 Windows XP 64-bit" on DriverGuide)
- FileHorse: (Search for "Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 Windows XP 64-bit" on FileHorse)
- MajorGeeks: (Search for "Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 Windows XP 64-bit" on MajorGeeks)
After downloading the driver package, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. It is recommended to uninstall any previous NVIDIA drivers before installing the new driver. This can be done through the Windows Control Panel.
Conclusion
The Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 197.41 for Windows XP 64-bit provides a WHQL-certified update for users of the GeForce GTX 480 and GTX 470 graphics cards. With its bundled components, broad technology support, and specific focus on these GPU models, it is a valuable resource for users looking to optimize their graphics performance and ensure compatibility with the Windows XP 64-bit operating system. While the driver is relatively old, it may still be necessary for users maintaining legacy systems. Always ensure that you download drivers from trusted sources and back up your system before installation.