This article provides an overview of the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 320.14 Beta, specifically tailored for the Windows XP 32-bit operating system. Released in May 2013, this driver aimed to enhance performance and compatibility for specific games and hardware configurations. While Windows XP is no longer officially supported by Nvidia, understanding the capabilities and limitations of this driver can be beneficial for users who continue to operate systems running this legacy operating system.
Overview
The Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 320.14 Beta represents a specific iteration in Nvidia’s driver development cycle. Beta drivers, in general, are pre-release versions made available to the public for testing and feedback. This allows Nvidia to identify and address potential issues before the final, stable release. This particular driver focuses on improving the gaming experience, with a specific emphasis on the then-new game Metro: Last Light.
What’s New and Key Features
According to the original release information, the primary focus of the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 320.14 Beta was to provide performance enhancements for Metro: Last Light. The release notes indicate performance gains of up to 10% in this title.
It’s important to note that the provided information is limited. Typically, driver release notes include detailed lists of bug fixes, performance improvements across various games, and newly supported hardware. However, the original data lacks this level of detail. Therefore, it is assumed that this beta driver primarily addresses Metro: Last Light performance.
Supported Products
While the original document does not explicitly list all supported products, GeForce drivers generally support a wide range of Nvidia graphics cards. Given the release date, it’s reasonable to assume that the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 320.14 Beta supports the GeForce 600 series and older cards. To determine specific compatibility, users should consult Nvidia’s website or other resources for a comprehensive list of supported GPUs for this driver version. It’s vital to verify compatibility before installing any driver to avoid potential system instability.
SLI Support Limitations
The original notes explicitly state a limitation regarding SLI (Scalable Link Interface) support. The Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 320.14 Beta only supports specific SLI features on Windows Vista, Windows 7, and Windows 8. This includes:
- GeForce GTX 600 series SLI
- Quad SLI technology
- 3-way SLI technology
- Hybrid SLI
- SLI multi-monitor support
This means that users running Windows XP will not be able to utilize these advanced SLI configurations with this driver. SLI is a technology that allows multiple Nvidia graphics cards to work together to improve performance, particularly in graphically demanding applications and games.
Driver File Information
The driver filename is: 320.14-desktop-winxp-32bit-english-beta.exe
This filename clearly indicates that the driver is designed for:
- Driver Version: 320.14
- Platform: Desktop
- Operating System: Windows XP 32-bit
- Language: English
- Type: Beta
Installation Considerations
Installing graphics drivers, especially beta versions, requires careful consideration. It’s strongly recommended to create a system restore point before installing the Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 320.14 Beta. This allows you to easily revert to a previous working state if any issues arise during or after the installation process.
Before installing the new driver, it’s also advisable to completely remove the previous driver. This can be done using the Windows Device Manager or a dedicated driver uninstaller utility. A clean installation minimizes the risk of conflicts between different driver versions.
Downloading the Driver
While finding the official download link for this specific beta driver may be challenging due to its age, here are two potential avenues:
Primary Download Link:
[320.14-desktop-winxp-32bit-english-beta.exe](This is a placeholder. The actual link may not be available or safe to use. Exercise caution.)
Alternative Download Link:
A mirror download may be available from DriverGuide. https://www.driverguide.com/driver/detail.php?driverid=1957949
Important Note: These links may or may not be active and safe. Before downloading any file from the internet, especially executable files, it’s crucial to verify its authenticity and scan it with a reputable antivirus program. Downloading drivers from unofficial sources can pose security risks. Ensure the website is reputable and trustworthy before proceeding. Always prioritize downloading drivers from the official Nvidia website whenever possible. However, given the age of this driver and the lack of official support for Windows XP, finding it on Nvidia’s website may not be possible.
Conclusion
The Nvidia GeForce Graphics Driver 320.14 Beta for Windows XP 32-bit was a performance-focused driver, primarily targeting improvements in Metro: Last Light. While Windows XP is an outdated operating system, some users may still find this driver relevant for their systems. However, it’s essential to consider the limitations of SLI support and exercise caution when downloading and installing beta drivers from potentially unreliable sources. Always prioritize system stability and security when working with older hardware and software. Remember to thoroughly research and verify compatibility before installing any driver on your system.