This article provides information about the Nvidia GeForce Notebook Graphics Driver 304.48 Beta, a driver release designed for notebook computers equipped with Nvidia GeForce GPUs running Windows Vista or Windows 7 64-bit operating systems. Released as part of the Nvidia Verde Notebook Driver Program, this driver aimed to deliver performance improvements, bug fixes, and new features to enhance the user experience.
Understanding the Nvidia Verde Notebook Driver Program
The Nvidia Verde Notebook Driver Program is designed to provide users with the latest driver updates for their Nvidia-powered notebooks. Through this program, Nvidia releases reference drivers that can be installed on compatible notebook GPUs. However, it’s crucial to understand the role of the notebook’s Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).
Notebook OEMs, such as Dell, HP, or Lenovo, often customize drivers specifically for their hardware configurations. These OEM-certified drivers are tailored to optimize performance, stability, and compatibility with the unique components of their notebooks. Nvidia strongly recommends checking the notebook OEM’s website for recommended software updates before installing reference drivers like the 304.48 Beta. Using OEM-certified drivers typically ensures the best possible experience and avoids potential compatibility issues. Keep in mind that OEMs may not provide technical support for issues arising from the use of Nvidia’s reference drivers.
Key Information about the 304.48 Beta Driver
- Release Date: June 18, 2012
- Filename: 304.48-notebook-win7-winvista-64bit-international-beta.exe
- Operating System Support: Windows Vista 64-bit, Windows 7 64-bit
Download Location
You can download the Nvidia GeForce Notebook Graphics Driver 304.48 Beta from TechSpot: https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/16104/
Alternative Download Links:
Due to the age of this driver, finding it directly from Nvidia or other major download sites might be difficult. Here are a few alternative sources that may host the file. Please exercise caution when downloading from third-party sites and ensure you have up-to-date antivirus software.
- Softpedia: Search Softpedia for "Nvidia 304.48 Notebook Driver" (Use their search function as direct links change).
- Guru3D: Search Guru3D for "Nvidia 304.48 Notebook Driver" (Use their search function as direct links change).
- DriverGuide: Search DriverGuide for "Nvidia 304.48 Notebook Driver" (Requires registration).
- DriversCollection: Search DriversCollection for "Nvidia 304.48 Notebook Driver" (Use their search function as direct links change).
- FileHorse: Search FileHorse for "Nvidia 304.48 Notebook Driver" (Use their search function as direct links change).
What’s New in the 304.48 Beta Driver
While specific details regarding the "What’s New" section are not provided in the original article extract, beta drivers typically include:
- Performance Enhancements: Optimizations for specific games or applications to improve frame rates and overall performance.
- Bug Fixes: Resolutions for known issues and glitches reported in previous driver versions.
- New Feature Support: Introduction of support for new technologies, APIs, or hardware features.
- Compatibility Improvements: Enhanced compatibility with various software and hardware configurations.
Important Considerations Before Installation
Prior to installing the Nvidia GeForce Notebook Graphics Driver 304.48 Beta, it’s highly recommended to take the following precautions:
- Backup Your System: Create a system restore point or a full system backup to ensure you can revert to a previous state if any issues arise during or after the driver installation.
- Identify Your Notebook OEM: Determine the manufacturer of your notebook (e.g., Dell, HP, Lenovo, ASUS).
- Visit the OEM’s Website: Check the notebook OEM’s website for the latest certified drivers for your specific notebook model.
- Read Release Notes: If available, carefully review the release notes for the 304.48 Beta driver to understand the known issues, supported features, and installation instructions.
- Clean Installation (Optional): Consider performing a clean installation of the driver by uninstalling the previous driver version and selecting the "Perform a clean installation" option during the new driver installation. This can help prevent conflicts and ensure a smooth installation process.
Supported Products (Nvidia Notebook GPUs)
The original article extract does not explicitly list all supported GPUs. However, the Nvidia GeForce Notebook Graphics Driver 304.48 Beta would likely support a range of GeForce notebook GPUs available around the release date of June 2012. These could potentially include:
- GeForce 600M Series (e.g., GeForce GT 650M, GeForce GT 640M, GeForce GT 630M)
- GeForce 500M Series (e.g., GeForce GTX 580M, GeForce GTX 570M, GeForce GTX 560M, GeForce GT 555M, GeForce GT 540M, GeForce GT 525M)
- GeForce 400M Series (e.g., GeForce GTX 485M, GeForce GTX 480M, GeForce GTX 470M, GeForce GTX 460M, GeForce GT 445M, GeForce GT 435M, GeForce GT 425M)
Please note that this is not an exhaustive list, and some exceptions may apply. Always refer to the official Nvidia documentation or the notebook OEM’s website for a complete list of supported GPUs.
Additional Details (From Original Extract)
The original extract mentions "Additional Details" but does not provide specific information. This section may have contained details about:
- Specific bug fixes included in the driver.
- Known issues that were not yet resolved.
- Compatibility notes for specific games or applications.
- Changes in driver behavior or settings.
Disclaimer
The Nvidia GeForce Notebook Graphics Driver 304.48 Beta is an older driver release. While it may still be functional on some systems, it’s generally recommended to use the latest drivers available from Nvidia or your notebook OEM to ensure optimal performance, stability, and security. Using outdated drivers may expose your system to vulnerabilities or compatibility issues.
Always exercise caution when installing drivers from unofficial sources.