This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 for Windows 7 32-bit, a driver package designed for systems utilizing Nvidia nForce chipsets. Released in May 2009, this driver suite delivers essential software components to ensure optimal performance and compatibility for a range of nForce-based motherboards running the 32-bit version of Windows 7. It’s important to note that this particular driver package excludes integrated graphics processor (IGP) support, focusing instead on core chipset functionalities.
Understanding the Nvidia nForce Chipset
Before diving into the specifics of the driver package, it’s beneficial to understand the role of the Nvidia nForce chipset. In the mid-2000s, nForce chipsets were widely used in motherboards designed for both Intel and AMD processors. These chipsets managed crucial functions like:
- PCI Express (PCIe) lanes: Enabling communication between the CPU and graphics cards, sound cards, and other expansion devices.
- Storage: Controlling SATA and IDE interfaces for hard drives and optical drives.
- Networking: Providing Ethernet connectivity.
- USB: Managing USB ports for peripherals.
- System Management: Handling power management and other essential system functions.
The nForce Driver 15.35 for Windows 7 32-bit package is designed to update and optimize these functionalities, ensuring smooth operation and stability.
Key Components of the Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 Package
The nForce Driver 15.35 for Windows 7 32-bit is a collection of individual drivers and utilities, each responsible for a specific aspect of the chipset’s functionality. Here’s a breakdown of the key components included in this package:
- Ethernet Driver (v73.06) WHQL: This driver ensures proper communication between your computer and the network via the Ethernet port. The "WHQL" designation signifies that it has been tested and certified by Microsoft’s Windows Hardware Quality Labs, indicating a high level of stability and compatibility.
- Network Management Tools (v73.05) "Sedona": These tools provide utilities for managing and configuring your network connection. The "Sedona" codename may refer to specific features or improvements introduced in this version.
- SATAIDE Driver (v11.1.0.23) WHQL: This driver manages the Serial ATA (SATA) interface in IDE mode, which is commonly used for connecting hard drives and solid-state drives (SSDs). The WHQL certification again assures compatibility and stability.
- SATARAID Driver (v11.1.0.23) WHQL: This driver is essential for systems configured with a SATA RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) array. RAID allows you to combine multiple hard drives into a single logical volume, offering benefits such as increased performance or data redundancy. The WHQL certification is included.
- RAIDTOOL Application (v11.1.0.23): This application provides a user interface for managing and configuring your SATA RAID array, allowing you to create, modify, and monitor your RAID volumes.
- SMU Driver (v1.67) WHQL: The System Management Unit (SMU) driver manages power consumption, thermal monitoring, and other system-level functions. WHQL certified.
- Installer (v7.01): The installer is the program that guides you through the installation process, ensuring that all the necessary drivers and utilities are installed correctly.
Supported Nvidia nForce Chipsets
The nForce Driver 15.35 for Windows 7 32-bit package supports a wide range of Nvidia nForce chipsets, primarily those released in the mid-to-late 2000s. Here’s a comprehensive list of the supported chipsets:
- nForce 790i Ultra SLI
- nForce 790i SLI
- nForce 780i SLI
- nForce 750i SLI
- nForce 740a SLI
- nForce 710a SLI
- nForce 680i SLI
- nForce 680i LT SLI
- nForce 680a SLI
- nForce 650i SLI
- nForce 650i Ultra
- nForce 590 SLI AMD
- nForce 570 SLI AMD
- nForce 570 Ultra AMD
- nForce 550
Important Note: This driver package is specifically designed for the 32-bit version of Windows 7. It is not compatible with 64-bit versions of Windows or other operating systems.
Downloading and Installing the Driver
You can download the nForce Driver 15.35 for Windows 7 32-bit from the following link:
Download Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 for Windows 7 32-bit
Here are 5 alternative download links:
- Softpedia: (https://drivers.softpedia.com/get/Chipset-Drivers/NVIDIA/NVIDIA-nForce-Chipset-Driver-15-35-for-Windows-7.shtml)
- Guru3D: (https://www.guru3d.com/files-details/nvidia-nforce-15-35-whql-download.html)
- DriverGuide: (https://www.driverguide.com/driver/detail.php?driverid=1698320)
- FileHorse: (https://www.filehorse.com/download-nvidia-nforce-driver-windows-7/)
- MajorGeeks: (https://www.majorgeeks.com/files/details/nvidia_nforce_chipset_drivers.html)
Installation Instructions:
- Download the
15.35_nforce_win7_32bit_international_whql.exefile. - Double-click the executable file to begin the installation process.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
- It is highly recommended to restart your computer after the installation to ensure that the changes are applied correctly.
Important Considerations
- Backup Your System: Before installing any new drivers, it’s always a good practice to create a system backup or restore point. This will allow you to revert to a previous state if any issues arise during or after the installation.
- Clean Installation: For best results, consider performing a clean installation of the drivers. This involves uninstalling any previous nForce drivers before installing the new ones. You can use a driver uninstaller utility like Display Driver Uninstaller (DDU) to remove any residual files or registry entries.
- Compatibility: Ensure that your nForce chipset is listed among the supported products before installing the driver. Installing the driver on an unsupported chipset may lead to instability or malfunction.
- WHQL Certification: Pay attention to the WHQL certification. WHQL-certified drivers have undergone rigorous testing by Microsoft and are generally considered to be more stable and reliable.
Conclusion
The Nvidia nForce Driver 15.35 for Windows 7 32-bit is a crucial software component for users running older systems with Nvidia nForce chipsets. By installing this driver package, you can ensure optimal performance, stability, and compatibility for your motherboard’s core functionalities. While the release date is quite old, this driver may still be necessary for those maintaining legacy systems running Windows 7 32-bit. Always exercise caution when installing drivers and follow the recommended best practices to minimize the risk of issues. Remember to verify your chipset compatibility before proceeding with the installation.