This article provides information regarding the S3 Chrome 400 Series Graphics Driver version 6.14.10.0337, specifically designed for 32-bit Windows XP operating systems. This driver release addresses specific bugs and compatibility issues encountered by users of S3 Chrome 400 Series graphics cards under the Windows XP environment. While it offers improvements in certain areas, it’s crucial to be aware of the known limitations before installation.
Overview of the S3 Chrome 400 Series
The S3 Chrome 400 Series was a line of integrated and discrete graphics processing units (GPUs) developed by S3 Graphics. These GPUs aimed to provide a balance between performance and affordability, targeting mainstream desktop and mobile computing needs. While not competing at the high end of the graphics market, the S3 Chrome 400 Series offered adequate graphical capabilities for everyday tasks, multimedia playback, and some light gaming.
Driver Version 6.14.10.0337: Key Features and Fixes
This particular driver, version 6.14.10.0337, is a Microsoft Certified release, indicating that it has undergone testing by Microsoft and meets certain compatibility and stability standards. The primary purpose of this release is to address specific bug fixes reported by users.
The resolved issues include:
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DVI Monitor Mode Selection: This driver version resolves an issue where, when using a DVI monitor, the option "Hide modes that this monitor cannot display" within the Windows XP display settings (Properties -> Settings -> Advanced -> Monitor) was greyed out and inaccessible. This fix allows users to properly configure their monitor settings and prevent the display of unsupported resolutions. The internal tracking code for this issue was (44617-0313).
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OpenGL Version Reporting: This release corrects discrepancies in OpenGL version reporting. Previously, GPU Caps Viewer might have reported OpenGL version 2.1, while OGL Extensions Viewer indicated version 3.0.17. This driver ensures that the OpenGL version is accurately reported as 3.1, which is the actual supported version. This addresses a potential source of confusion for developers and users relying on accurate OpenGL information. The internal tracking code for this issue was (54979-0337).
Known Limitations and Issues
Despite the bug fixes, this driver release has known limitations that users should consider before installing. These limitations can impact the user experience in specific scenarios:
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Google Earth Corruption: Using Google Earth to view the S3 Graphics company in Shanghai may result in visual artifacts, specifically black square garbage appearing on the map. Furthermore, this issue can sometimes lead to a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error with code 8e, indicating a problem with the
S3ddx9_32.dllfile. The internal tracking code for this issue was (48949). This means that heavy Google Earth users might experience instability. -
DisplayPort (DP) Resolution Issue: When attempting to change the display mode to 1280×720 using a DisplayPort connection (single-link), the driver may fail to output any signal. This limitation restricts the use of this specific resolution with DisplayPort on certain configurations. The internal tracking code for this issue was (56049).
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CRT Display Settings Not Saved: When using a CRT monitor, any adjustments made to the CRT’s size and position settings within the S3 Chrome control panel ("Device management") are not saved after a mode change. For example, if you set the resolution to 1024×768, adjust the CRT settings, and then switch to 800×600 and back to 1024×768, the CRT settings will revert to their default values. The internal tracking code for this issue was (56349). This can be a frustrating issue for users who rely on precise CRT adjustments.
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Roxio Creator Basic V9 BSOD: Running Roxio Creator Basic V9 in full-screen mode may trigger a BSOD error (0050) caused by the
S3DMINI_32.sysdriver file. This indicates a compatibility issue between the driver and Roxio Creator Basic V9. The internal tracking code for this issue was (56235).
Driver Download and Installation
The S3 Chrome 400 Series Graphics Driver 6.14.10.0337 for Windows XP 32-bit can be downloaded from the following link:
https://www.techspot.com/drivers/driver/file/information/13508/
Before installing the driver, it is highly recommended to create a system restore point. This will allow you to revert to a previous state if any issues arise during or after the installation process. To install the driver, download the file and follow the on-screen instructions provided by the installation wizard.
Alternative Download Links:
While the TechSpot link is a reliable source, here are some alternative download locations for the S3 Chrome 400 Series Graphics Driver:
- Softpedia: https://drivers.softpedia.com/get/Graphics-Board/S3/S3-Chrome-400-Series-Graphics-Driver-6-14-10-0337.shtml
- DriverGuide: (May require registration) https://www.driverguide.com/driver/detail.php?driverid=1557720
- DriverIdentifier: (Use with caution and scan downloaded files) https://www.driveridentifier.com/scan/s3-chrome-400-series (This is a driver scanner, it may or may not have the exact version, but it can help identify the correct driver for your system.)
- DriversCollection: https://www.driverscollection.com/?file_cid=4430862915396099e2a507d6401
- FileHorse: https://www.filehorse.com/download-s3-chrome-400-series-driver/ (Note: FileHorse may offer a download manager; choose the direct download option if available).
Disclaimer: Download files from third-party websites at your own risk. Always scan downloaded files with an up-to-date antivirus program before installing.
Conclusion
The S3 Chrome 400 Series Graphics Driver 6.14.10.0337 for Windows XP 32-bit addresses specific issues related to monitor settings and OpenGL version reporting. However, users should be aware of the known limitations, particularly those related to Google Earth, DisplayPort resolutions, CRT display settings, and Roxio Creator Basic V9 compatibility. By carefully considering these limitations and following the installation instructions, users can determine if this driver update is suitable for their specific needs and system configuration.