Installing Nvidia graphics drivers


  1. Posts : 19
    Windows 7 (64 bit)
       #1

    Installing Nvidia graphics drivers


    Hi,
    I am looking to sort out my graphics drivers for my new computer and just want to make sure I get it right and so avoid any kind of nightmare, I am sure some of you will be able to point me in the right direction....

    I have a GTS250 card installed on my PC running windows 7 64 bit. It is currently using the standard windows drivers would have automatically installed when the computer was put together. I would like to change these to the proper Nvidia drivers so I can have the control panel and more control etc.

    This is what I think I need to do:
    1. Download correct Nvidia drivers and save somewhere
    2. Uninstall the GTS250 device in device manager with remove the software option
    3. Boot in safe-mode and run a driver cleaner thingy (which one is free and best??)
    4. Restart and run the Nvidia install program

    Is this correct? Is it necessary to use a driver sweeper? I have read that the generic driver can just be installed over but I am not sure about this. Is it the uninstall option that I need to use? I have also read that windows will automatically re-install the generic driver from a ‘store’, how can I stop this happening?

    Sorry for all the questions! I have only ever done this sort of thing once before (integrated graphics to a proper card on my old PC) and your help is much appreciated.

    Thanks in advance

    Alex

    P.S If this has been covered before, I apologise! Please link me to it!
      My Computer


  2. 24c
    Posts : 486
    Win7 x64 Ult
       #2

    I am also running Win 7 64 bit.

    I created a folder - NVIDIA - under Program files and installed the drivers to that folder. When a new driver version comes out, I empty the folder and install the newer version to it.

    (D/L from NVIDIA to Download folder, right click on file and Run As Administrator)

    (Just got through doing it this morning, as a matter of fact.)

    I'd delete the current drivers from Control Panel - Programs and Features, if in fact they show up there.

    I've never used a driver sweeper.

    How do you like the card, I was looking at one on Newegg today. I believe it has an HDMI output.
      My Computer


  3. Posts : 4,280
    Windows 7 ultimate 64 bit / XP Home sp3
       #3

    You'll get different opinions on this but I always use a driver sweeper/cleaner before installing the new driver just to make sure all remnants of the old driver are removed. Some people just install over the old driver. But I like to get rid of everything to do with the old driver, just in case. This way I feel more confident in getting the full updates intended with the new driver. Fabe
      My Computer


  4. 24c
    Posts : 486
    Win7 x64 Ult
       #4

    thefabe said:
    You'll get different opinions on this but I always use a driver sweeper/cleaner before installing the new driver just to make sure all remnants of the old driver are removed. Some people just install over the old driver. But I like to get rid of everything to do with the old driver, just in case. This way I feel more confident in getting the full updates intended with the new driver. Fabe
    I mentioned I never used them, because I never heard of them - we learn something everyday - thanks - this is a great site

    Any suggestions on a good one?
      My Computer


  5. Posts : 4,280
    Windows 7 ultimate 64 bit / XP Home sp3
       #5
      My Computer


  6. 24c
    Posts : 486
    Win7 x64 Ult
       #6

    thefabe said:
    thanks - may the Gods of Cleaners bless you and your machines with eternal cleanliness.:)
      My Computer


  7. Posts : 19
    Windows 7 (64 bit)
    Thread Starter
       #7

    Cheers for responses. So we think my method should be ok then?

    In response to your question 24c i think the GTS250 is a good card for the money. Your not gonna get 250 fps on crysis, but its pretty solid nonetheless! Mine is a Sparkle version with stock clocks etc and it has VGA, DVI and HDMI outputs.
      My Computer


  8. Posts : 19
    Windows 7 (64 bit)
    Thread Starter
       #8

    Mmmm...

    Uninstalled windows 7 generic drivers from device manager for the card and screen went to 640x480 or whatever as expected. Rebooted in safe mode and windows reinstalled the generic drivers again! What should I do, can I just install over the windows ones as driver sweeper won't find windows graphics drivers I think. Also, when I check in the driver details section it shows 5 files. Do I need to delete these in safe mode or something??
      My Computer


  9. Posts : 650
    Windows 7 Ultimate x64
       #9

    Just install the current Nvidia driver. Save the gymnastics for a time when you have errors on install.
      My Computer


  10. Posts : 19
    Windows 7 (64 bit)
    Thread Starter
       #10

    Done, all seems well. Leotard left in wardrobe. Thanks very much
      My Computer


 

  Related Discussions
Our Sites
Site Links
About Us
Windows 7 Forums is an independent web site and has not been authorized, sponsored, or otherwise approved by Microsoft Corporation. "Windows 7" and related materials are trademarks of Microsoft Corp.

© Designer Media Ltd
All times are GMT -5. The time now is 05:00.
Find Us