Cyber Dimensions....

Ever since Windows 7 became a talking point for enthusiasts, AMD has been on hand with driver support for graphics adapters and chipsets alike. Rival chip titan Intel, meanwhile, has been content to sit the sidelines and offer nary a peep about their support plans. However, it seems the recent Windows 7 Release Candidate (or the RTM, judging by the driver dates) has inspired a change of heart in ol’ blue. We’ve done some digging and discovered that Intel has recently booted a whole suite of Windows 7 GMA, AHCI/SATA and chipset drivers out the door for our consumption!

Chipset

Chipset Device Software 9.1.1.1015

The Intel® Chipset Device Software installs the Windows* INF files. The INF files inform the operating system how to properly configure the chipset for specific functionality, such as USB and core PCI.

AHCI/SATA

Matrix Storage Manager 8.9.0.1023

This driver provides support for high-capacity & fault-tolerant Serial ATA (SATA) RAID 5 arrays and high-performance & fault-tolerant SATA RAID 10 arrays on select Intel® 4 Series, 3 Series, 965, 975X, 955X and 945 chipset-based platforms. It provides support for high-performance SATA RAID 0 arrays & redundant SATA RAID 1 arrays on select Intel® 4 Series, 3 Series, 965, 975X, 955X, 945, 925, 915 chipset-based platforms. It also provides AHCI support on select Intel® 4 Series, 3 Series, 965, 975X, 955X, 945, 925 and 915 chipset-based platforms, as well as on Mobile Intel® 915/910 chipset-based platforms.

Prepped for the install process

You might note that these AHCI/SATA drivers come bundled in an executable which puts the kibosh on using them during the Windows 7 install. This isn’t a deal-breaker as Microsoft provides generic AHCI/SATA drivers for just such an occasion, but we busted ‘em loose so you can use Intel’s goods during the install routine. Grab the drivers from this link: Right here!

GMA Graphics

Integrated Intel GMA Drivers

These are going to be hit and miss for users with older integrated adapters, as many of them were retired long ago. Owners of a mobile or desktop product featuring the 910, 915, 945, 946, 963, Q965, G965, 965 Express, G/Q4x or G/Q3x chipsets are in luck, however, as an official Windows 7 driver is available for your adapter.

What’s the catch?

These drivers are provided AS IS warns Intel in scary bold letters. Keep in mind that beta drivers can trigger unwanted side effects like blue screens, boot failures, choppy performance and hairy palms. That said, you can bet your asses we’ll be taking our chances right along with you.

Source