This article provides information regarding the S3 Chrome 500 Series Graphics Driver Beta 8.16.12.0202, specifically designed for the Windows Vista 64-bit operating system. This beta driver, released on March 31, 2010, addresses a specific bug fix while also acknowledging a known limitation. This article aims to present a clear and concise overview of its purpose, resolved issues, and existing limitations.
Overview
This driver is a beta release intended to address a specific problem related to HDMI custom mode settings. It is important to note that as a beta driver, it may not be fully stable and could potentially introduce unforeseen issues. Users should exercise caution and back up their systems before installing this driver.
What’s New
This section details the specific changes and fixes implemented in the S3 Chrome 500 Series Graphics Driver Beta 8.16.12.0202.
- Release Type: Beta
- Purpose: Bug Fix
Resolved Issues
The primary purpose of this driver update is to resolve a specific issue related to HDMI output and custom resolution settings. The bug fix addresses the following problem:
- HDMI Custom Mode Restoration: When using multiple HDMI devices, the custom mode resolution could not be properly restored. Specifically, if a user switched to a different HDMI device with a 1920×1080 resolution, the system would fail to revert to the user’s preferred 1680×1050 resolution on the original device. This issue is identified by the internal tracking code (56615-0202).
Limitations
While this beta driver addresses the HDMI custom mode issue, it’s important to be aware of a known limitation:
- OpenGL Support in GPU Caps Viewer: When running certain tests within GPU Caps Viewer 1.8.2, an error message stating "This demo requires the support of OpenGL 2.0 and two render target" may appear. This indicates a compatibility issue between the driver and specific OpenGL features utilized by the GPU Caps Viewer software. This limitation is tracked under the internal code (57797). Users needing to utilize GPU Caps Viewer 1.8.2 extensively may want to consider the impact of this limitation before installing this driver.
Specs
While detailed specifications are not explicitly provided with the driver information, the filename S3G_Chrome5x_Vista_x64_v0202.exe gives us some insight. The "S3G" likely refers to S3 Graphics, the "Chrome5x" indicates compatibility with the Chrome 500 series of graphics cards, "Vista" confirms its target operating system, and "x64" denotes its 64-bit architecture. The "v0202" is likely a version or build number specific to this driver release.
- Target Graphics Card: S3 Graphics Chrome 500 Series
- Operating System: Windows Vista 64-bit
- File Name: S3G_Chrome5x_Vista_x64_v0202.exe
- Release Date: March 31, 2010
Download
The S3 Chrome 500 Series Graphics Driver Beta 8.16.12.0202 for Windows Vista 64-bit can be downloaded from the following location:
Alternative Download Links:
Due to the age of this driver, availability can be inconsistent. Here are five alternative sources where you might be able to find the S3 Chrome 500 Series Graphics Driver Beta 8.16.12.0202 for Windows Vista 64-bit or similar drivers. Please note: Always exercise caution when downloading files from third-party websites. Verify the file’s integrity and scan for viruses before installation.
- Softpedia: https://drivers.softpedia.com/get/Graphics-Board/S3/S3-Graphics-Chrome-530-GTX-8-16-12-0202-Beta-for-Vista64.shtml
- DriverGuide: (Requires registration, but often has archived drivers) – Search for the driver name on their site.
- Driver Whiz: (Driver update utility – use with caution, sometimes bundled with other software) – Search for the driver name on their site.
- File Horse: https://www.filehorse.com/download-s3-graphics-chrome-500-vista-64/
- Archive.org (Wayback Machine): If the original S3 Graphics website is archived, you might find the driver there.
Considerations Before Installation
Before installing this driver, keep the following points in mind:
- Beta Status: This is a beta driver, which means it is still under development and may contain bugs or instability.
- Operating System Compatibility: Ensure that you are using Windows Vista 64-bit. This driver is specifically designed for this operating system and may not function correctly on other versions of Windows.
- Backup: It is highly recommended to back up your system before installing any new driver. This will allow you to easily restore your system to its previous state if any issues arise.
- Read the Release Notes: If available, carefully review any release notes or documentation accompanying the driver. These notes may contain important information about compatibility, known issues, and installation instructions.
- Specific HDMI Issue: This driver primarily addresses a very specific HDMI resolution restoration issue. If you are not experiencing this particular problem, installing this driver may not provide any benefit.
- OpenGL Limitation: Be aware of the OpenGL limitation if you plan to use GPU Caps Viewer 1.8.2.
Conclusion
The S3 Chrome 500 Series Graphics Driver Beta 8.16.12.0202 for Windows Vista 64-bit is a targeted bug fix addressing a specific HDMI resolution issue. Users encountering this problem may find this driver helpful. However, the beta status and known OpenGL limitation should be carefully considered before installation. Always back up your system and exercise caution when installing beta drivers. This driver is intended for users of the S3 Chrome 500 Series graphics cards running Windows Vista 64-bit.