Nathan Davis18 October 2006, 3:01 AM
Want to run Vista on a RAID hard drive configuration using nVIDIA's popular nForce chipset? You can forget about it with official drivers. There is a way to get it running, however.
If you want to run Vista on a RAID setup using an nForce controller, you've probably chucked a hissy fit due to the lack of success.
We've seen this problem arise primarily on nForce4-flavoured motherboards, although we'd be interested to know if other versions are also suffering the same fate.
The newest available drivers are for for Vista RC1 and are in beta form, both for 32-bit and 64-bit installs, however there is no functional RAID support to speak of -- SATA or otherwise.
If you really want to install Vista on a RAID, I suggest giving this chap's suggestions a whirl. Unfortunately his methods require a matching 32- or 64-bit Windows XP install.
There has been better luck in the graphics department, though, nVIDIA today launching its official Windows Vista RC2 compatible Forceware drivers.
This driver is for RC2 (build 5744) or higher and shouldn't be installed on earlier installs, says nVIDIA, as it will unleash green fury.
If you were lucky enough to pocket a copy of Vista RC2 before it disappeared, you can download the Microsoft WHQL rubber-stamped 32-bit Forceware driver or the 64-bit Forceware driver if you're so inclined.
nVIDIA was unable to return comment on the state of nForce driver development for Vista prior to article completion.
It did mention, however, when the drivers are polished up and released as finals, there will be both a 32-bit and a 64-bit package available for the respective Windows Vista installs.
Asked when the nForce drivers will be released in final Vista-compatible form, nVIDIA responded "on Vista launch."
Whenever that may be.
nVIDIA's partial support for Vista with its latest nForce beta driver