Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22, a crucial software component that enables seamless interaction between Nvidia GPUs and the Linux operating system. This driver package is designed to support a wide range of Nvidia graphics cards, including GeForce, Quadro, NVS, GRID, and Tesla chips, catering to both desktop and notebook configurations. Released in late 2017, specifically on November 8th, this driver aims to deliver enhanced performance, stability, and compatibility for Linux users.

The Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22 stands as a testament to Nvidia’s commitment to the Linux community, offering optimized support for both professional and consumer-grade graphics solutions. This article will delve into the key features, supported products, and significant changes introduced in this version, providing a detailed understanding of its capabilities and implications for Linux users.

Overview of the Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22

The Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22 serves as the essential bridge between the hardware capabilities of Nvidia GPUs and the software environment of Linux distributions. By providing optimized drivers, Nvidia ensures that users can leverage the full potential of their graphics cards for various tasks, including gaming, content creation, scientific computing, and professional visualization.

This particular release, version 387.22, focuses on expanding support for newer graphics cards and incorporating advancements in OpenGL driver architecture. It’s crucial for users seeking optimal performance and stability on their Linux systems, especially those utilizing Nvidia GPUs for demanding applications.

What’s New in the Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22

While the provided information lacks a detailed list of specific bug fixes or feature additions, it highlights a significant architectural change related to OpenGL driver handling. The Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22 introduces the OpenGL Vendor-Neutral Driver (GLVND) infrastructure.

This integration of GLVND is a fundamental shift in how Nvidia’s OpenGL drivers are structured. While it shouldn’t result in any immediately noticeable changes for most end-users, it involves renaming and relocating some internal driver component libraries. This can potentially impact:

• Repackagers of the Nvidia Driver: Modifications to the driver’s internal structure may require adjustments to custom packaging scripts and procedures. Referencing the "Installed Components" chapter of the Readme file is crucial.
• Maintainers of Alternative Nvidia Driver Installation Packages: Similar to repackagers, those creating custom installation packages need to adapt to the changes in library locations and names.
• Applications Relying on Non-OpenGL/GLX Symbols: Applications that directly depend on specific symbols within the libGL.so.1 library (or its dependencies) beyond those defined in the Linux OpenGL ABI version 1.0 may experience compatibility issues. Developers might need to update their applications to account for these changes.

The move to GLVND aligns with industry efforts to standardize OpenGL driver management, promoting better compatibility and maintainability across different Linux distributions and hardware configurations.

Supported Products

The Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22 boasts an extensive list of supported products, covering a wide range of Nvidia GPUs. Below is a breakdown of the supported series:

• GeForce MX100 Series (Notebook): (Specific models within this series not listed)
• GeForce 10 Series: (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 10 Series (Notebooks): (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 900 Series: (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 900M Series (Notebooks): (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 800M Series (Notebooks): (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 700 Series: (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 700M Series (Notebooks): (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 600 Series: (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 600M Series (Notebooks): (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 500 Series: (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 500M Series (Notebooks): (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 400 Series: (Specific models not listed)
• GeForce 400M Series (Notebooks): (Specific models not listed)
• Quadro Series: (Specific models not listed)
• Quadro Series (Notebooks): (Specific models not listed)
• Quadro NVS Series: (Specific models not listed)
• Quadro NVS Series (Notebooks): (Specific models not listed)
• Quadro Plex Series: (Specific models not listed)
• Quadro Sync Series: (Specific models not listed)
• Quadro SDI: (Specific models not listed)
• NVS Series: (Specific models not listed)
• NVS Series (Notebooks): (Specific models not listed)

While the listing provides series-level support, it’s crucial to consult the official Nvidia documentation or release notes for the Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22 to confirm compatibility with specific GPU models within each series. This is especially important for users with less common or older graphics cards.

Installation and Considerations

Installing the Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22 typically involves downloading the driver package from Nvidia’s website and executing the installation script. The filename for this driver is NVIDIA-Linux-x86-387.22.run.

Download Link (TechSpot): Driver Download

Alternative Download Link (Softpedia): Alternative Driver Download

Before proceeding with the installation, it’s highly recommended to:

1. Read the Release Notes: The release notes contain important information about supported features, known issues, and potential compatibility concerns.
2. Back Up Your System: Creating a system backup allows you to easily revert to a previous state if any issues arise during the installation process.
3. Disable Nouveau Driver: The open-source Nouveau driver may conflict with the Nvidia driver. Ensure that Nouveau is disabled before installing the Nvidia driver. This usually involves blacklisting the Nouveau driver modules.
4. Use the Correct Installation Method: Nvidia provides different installation methods, including using the .run file or utilizing package managers specific to your Linux distribution (e.g., apt, yum). Choose the method that best suits your technical expertise and system configuration.
5. Address Dependencies: Ensure that all necessary dependencies are installed before attempting the installation. The release notes or installation documentation will list the required dependencies.

Conclusion

The Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22 is a significant release that brings updated support for a wide range of Nvidia GPUs and introduces the OpenGL Vendor-Neutral Driver (GLVND) infrastructure. While the GLVND integration primarily affects driver architecture, it has implications for repackagers, maintainers, and developers relying on specific driver components. Users are encouraged to consult the official release notes and documentation for detailed information about supported features, known issues, and installation instructions. By carefully following the recommended installation steps and addressing potential compatibility concerns, Linux users can leverage the Nvidia Graphics Driver for Linux 387.22 to unlock the full potential of their Nvidia GPUs and enjoy a seamless computing experience. This Nvidia Graphics Driver is important for many users.