This article provides information regarding the Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta release specifically designed for 64-bit versions of Windows Vista. This driver package targets a broad range of Nvidia graphics processing units (GPUs), including the GeForce 6, 7, 8, 9, 100, and 200 series desktop GPUs, as well as the Nvidia ION desktop GPUs. It’s important to note that this release is a beta version, implying it’s a pre-release build intended for testing and feedback, and may contain bugs or stability issues. Users should exercise caution when installing beta drivers, especially on mission-critical systems.
Key Features and Enhancements
The Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta build is largely based on the previously released 195.62 WHQL (Windows Hardware Quality Labs) certified drivers. This means that the core functionality and performance characteristics are essentially the same. The primary differences lie in a few specific updates and fixes implemented in the beta release. These include:
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Adobe Flash 10.1 Beta 2 Support: This beta driver incorporates several bug fixes specifically tailored to improve compatibility and stability with the Adobe Flash 10.1 Beta 2 release. Users experiencing issues with Flash content, such as video playback problems or browser crashes, may find this update beneficial. It is worth noting that the support is intended for the beta version of Adobe Flash, and it may not resolve all issues with the final released version.
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SLI and Multi-GPU Profiles: The driver introduces new SLI (Scalable Link Interface) and multi-GPU profiles for specific game titles and demos. These profiles are designed to optimize performance when using multiple Nvidia graphics cards in parallel. The games and demos benefiting from these new profiles include:
- Avatar Demo
- Operation Flashpoint: Dragon Rising Demo
- Wings of Prey
These profiles aim to improve frame rates, reduce stuttering, and enhance overall visual fidelity when playing these titles on systems equipped with multiple Nvidia GPUs.
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3D Vision Display Detection Fixes: The driver addresses issues related to 3D Vision display detection for CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) and DLP (Digital Light Processing) displays. Users encountering problems with their 3D Vision setup, such as the system failing to recognize the display or displaying incorrect resolutions, may find this fix helpful. This enhancement specifically targets older display technologies like CRT and DLP, which may have compatibility issues with newer driver versions.
Supported Products
The Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta supports a wide array of Nvidia GPUs, ensuring compatibility for a significant portion of users. The supported product lines are detailed below:
- GeForce 200 Series: GTS 240, 210, G210, GT 220, GT 230, 205, GTX 285, GTX 280, GT 240, GTX 260, GTS 250, GTX 275, GTX 295
- GeForce 100 Series: GT 130, G 100, GT 120, GT 140
- GeForce 9 Series: 9500 GS, 9800 GTX/GTX+, 9500 GT, 9300 GE, 9300, 9800 GX2, 9400, 9800 GT, 9300 GS, 9400 GT, 9600 GSO, 9600 GS, 9200, 9600 GT
- GeForce 8 Series: 8400 SE, 8100 / nForce 720a, 8300 GS, 8500 GT, 8600 GT, 8300, 8800 GTS, 8400 GS, 8800 GTS 512, 8800 GS, 8600 GS, 8800 Ultra, 8800 GTX, 8200, 8400, 8600 GTS, 8800 GT
- GeForce 7 Series: 7600 GT, 7800 SLI, 7600 LE, 7650 GS, 7600 GS, 7300 SE / 7200 GS, 7050 PV / NVIDIA nForce 630a, 7950 GT, 7300 LE, 7050 / NVIDIA nForce 630i, 7150 / NVIDIA nForce 630i, 7800 GTX, 7350 LE, 7950 GX2, 7500 LE, 7050 / NVIDIA nForce 610i, 7900 GT/GTO, 7900 GS, 7300 GS, 7550 LE, 7800 GS, 7900 GTX, 7100 / NVIDIA nForce 630i, 7100 GS, 7300 GT, 7100 / NVIDIA nForce 620i, 7025 / NVIDIA nForce 630a
- GeForce 6 Series: 6610 XL, 6200 A-LE, 6800 XE, 6100 nForce 405, 6800 Ultra, 6600 LE, 6100, 6200 LE, 6200SE TurboCache, 6600 VE, 6200 TurboCache, 6600 GT, 6150LE / Quadro NVS 210S, 6800 LE, 6700 XL, 6800, 6500, 6100 nForce 400, 6600, 6150, 6100 nForce 420, 6800 GS/XT, 6150 LE, 6250, 6800 GT, 6800 GS, 6800 XT, 6200, 6150SE nForce 430
- ION Series: ION LE, ION
Installation and Considerations
Before installing the Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta, it is highly recommended to back up your system or create a system restore point. This precaution allows you to revert to a previous state if any issues arise during or after the driver installation.
To install the driver:
- Download the appropriate driver package for your system from a reliable source (see download links below).
- Close all running applications.
- Run the downloaded executable file.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process.
- Restart your computer when prompted.
Download Links
You can download the Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta for Windows Vista 64-bit from the following sources:
Alternative Download Links
Due to the age of this driver, finding direct download links can be challenging. Here are some alternative sources where you might find the Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta, or potentially a later version that’s compatible:
- Softpedia: [Search "Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta Softpedia" on Google to find the specific page if available]
- Guru3D: [Search "Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta Guru3D" on Google to find the specific page if available]
- Nvidia Driver Archive: While Nvidia may not directly host this specific beta driver anymore, their driver archive is worth checking. Search for drivers compatible with your specific GPU model on the Nvidia website.
- DriverGuide: DriverGuide is a community-driven driver repository where users upload and share drivers. Use with caution and verify the file before installing. [Search "Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta DriverGuide" on Google to find the specific page if available]
- MajorGeeks: Similar to Softpedia, MajorGeeks often hosts older driver versions. [Search "Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta MajorGeeks" on Google to find the specific page if available]
Important Considerations for Older Drivers
Keep in mind that using such an old beta driver may present compatibility issues with newer software and games. Modern operating systems and applications are often optimized for newer driver versions. If you encounter problems, consider upgrading to a more recent, stable driver release if available for your specific GPU. However, be aware that newer drivers may drop support for older GPUs entirely.
Conclusion
The Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta offers specific fixes for Adobe Flash 10.1 Beta 2, SLI profiles for certain games, and 3D Vision display detection improvements. While designed for a range of older Nvidia GPUs under Windows Vista 64-bit, users should approach the installation with caution due to its beta nature. It’s essential to weigh the potential benefits of these specific fixes against the risks of using a beta driver, and always back up your system before proceeding with the installation of the Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta. Ensure your hardware is listed within the supported products before attempting an install of the Nvidia GeForce Ion Graphics Drivers 195.81 Beta.