Nvidia Quadro Tesla Graphics Driver 276.52 for Windows XP 64-bit

This article provides information about the Nvidia Quadro Tesla Graphics Driver 276.52, specifically designed for 64-bit versions of Windows XP. This driver package, released on February 9, 2012, aimed to provide optimized performance and stability for professional graphics applications running on Nvidia Quadro and Tesla series graphics cards. While the operating system and hardware involved are now considered legacy, understanding the purpose and features of such drivers remains relevant for historical context and those maintaining older systems.

Understanding Quadro and Tesla Graphics Cards

Before delving into the specifics of the 276.52 driver, it’s crucial to understand the target hardware. Nvidia’s Quadro and Tesla lines were (and still are) aimed at professional users, differing significantly from the GeForce series, which caters to gamers.

• Quadro: Quadro cards were designed for applications like computer-aided design (CAD), digital content creation (DCC), and scientific visualization. They emphasized accuracy, stability, and certifications with professional software packages like AutoCAD, Maya, and Adobe Creative Suite. Key features included optimized drivers, larger frame buffers (memory), and specific hardware features tailored for these workloads.

• Tesla: Tesla cards were targeted at high-performance computing (HPC), data science, and artificial intelligence (AI) workloads. They focused on maximizing processing power for tasks like simulations, data analysis, and machine learning. Often, Tesla cards lacked display outputs, as they were intended to operate in server environments.

Overview of Nvidia Quadro Tesla Graphics Driver 276.52

The Nvidia Quadro Tesla Graphics Driver 276.52 for Windows XP 64-bit represents a specific iteration of Nvidia’s driver development aimed at supporting these professional-grade graphics cards on a then-common operating system. Driver updates like this were critical for several reasons:

• Bug Fixes: Drivers often contained fixes for bugs discovered in previous versions, addressing stability issues or graphical anomalies.

• Performance Improvements: Each driver update could include optimizations to improve the performance of applications running on Quadro and Tesla cards.

• Compatibility: Drivers ensured compatibility with the latest software releases and hardware configurations.

• New Features: While less common in incremental updates, new features could be introduced to enhance the capabilities of the graphics cards.

Unfortunately, the original source material doesn’t provide a detailed list of "What’s New" in this specific driver version. Driver release notes typically detailed these changes, but those notes are not available within the provided context.

Driver Details and Identification

The filename of the driver package is 276.52-quadro-tesla-winxp-64bit-international-whql.exe. This filename provides valuable information:

• 276.52: This is the driver version number.
• quadro-tesla: This indicates that the driver supports both Quadro and Tesla series cards.
• winxp-64bit: This specifies that the driver is designed for the 64-bit version of Windows XP.
• international: This suggests that the driver includes support for multiple languages.
• whql: This stands for Windows Hardware Quality Labs. WHQL certification meant that the driver had passed Microsoft’s testing standards and was deemed stable and reliable.

Existing Support and Supported Products

The provided text only mentions the existence of existing support and supported products without listing them. However, considering the driver version and the target audience, we can infer some likely supported products.

Likely Supported Quadro Products:

• Quadro FX series (e.g., Quadro FX 580, Quadro FX 1800, Quadro FX 3800, Quadro FX 4800)
• Quadro 2000 series
• Quadro 4000 series
• Quadro 5000 series
• Quadro 6000 series

Likely Supported Tesla Products:

• Tesla C2050
• Tesla C2070
• Tesla M2050
• Tesla M2070
• Tesla M2090

It’s important to note that this is an inferred list, and the official supported product list from Nvidia would provide definitive confirmation.

Why This Driver Matters (Historically)

While Windows XP is no longer a supported operating system, and the Quadro and Tesla cards from that era are considered legacy hardware, understanding drivers like the Nvidia Quadro Tesla Graphics Driver 276.52 remains relevant for several reasons:

• Legacy Systems: Some industries or individuals may still rely on older systems for specific tasks or applications that have not been updated. Access to compatible drivers is crucial for maintaining these systems.

• Historical Context: Studying older drivers provides insight into the evolution of graphics technology and driver development.

• Troubleshooting: Understanding the purpose and features of drivers can aid in troubleshooting issues with older hardware or software.

Downloading the Driver

While finding a direct download link for this specific driver version can be challenging due to its age, it’s often possible through driver archives or third-party websites. The provided link is:

https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/15837/

It is always recommended to exercise caution when downloading drivers from unofficial sources and to scan the downloaded file for viruses before installation.

Alternative Download Links

Finding direct download links for a driver this old can be difficult. Here are some alternative sites that might host archived drivers, though availability is not guaranteed:

1. Nvidia Official Archive (If Available): Check Nvidia’s website for an archive section.
2. DriverGuide.com: A popular driver repository site.
3. Softpedia: Another reputable software and driver download site.
4. MajorGeeks.com: Known for hosting a variety of software, including drivers.
5. WinDrivers.com: A dedicated driver resource website.

Disclaimer: Always exercise caution when downloading from third-party sites. Ensure the site is reputable and scan the downloaded file for viruses before installation.

Installing the Driver

The installation process for the Nvidia Quadro Tesla Graphics Driver 276.52 would typically involve the following steps:

1. Download the Driver: Download the 276.52-quadro-tesla-winxp-64bit-international-whql.exe file from a trusted source.

2. Run the Executable: Double-click the downloaded file to start the installation process.

3. Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The installer will guide you through the installation process. This may involve accepting a license agreement, choosing an installation directory, and selecting components to install.

4. Restart Your Computer: After the installation is complete, you may be prompted to restart your computer. This is necessary for the driver to load properly.

Conclusion

The Nvidia Quadro Tesla Graphics Driver 276.52 for Windows XP 64-bit represented a specific point in the evolution of Nvidia’s professional graphics drivers. While the technology is now dated, understanding its purpose and features provides valuable insight into the history of graphics hardware and software. While locating and installing this specific driver may be challenging, it can be crucial for maintaining and utilizing older systems that rely on this technology. Remember to prioritize downloading from trusted sources and scanning for viruses to ensure the safety and stability of your system. This Nvidia Quadro Tesla Graphics Driver 276.52 driver played a significant role for professionals utilizing Windows XP 64-bit. The functionality of the Nvidia Quadro Tesla Graphics Driver 276.52 was important for specific applications. The Nvidia Quadro Tesla Graphics Driver 276.52 provided support for a range of hardware.