What drivers do I need when reformatting?

Hello,

I'm going to be reformatting a Dell Optiplex GX270. What drivers do I need to have when I reinstall Windows XP?

Thank you,
fanta

 

The list of drivers at Dell includes drivers for all the different hardware combinations. For example, there are video/graphics drivers for nVidia, ATI or Intel onboard graphics, your system will only use one of these.

To find which hardware combination you have, put the service tag information in here:
http://support.dell.com/support/top...ls?~ck=ln&~tab=2&c=us&cs=19&l=en&lnki=0&s=dhs
or use the tab Current System Configuration.

Another way, if you go to Start -> Run and enter msinfo32.exe, it will give you a list that you can print out. You should be able to match that with the drivers offered in the Dell downloads.

If you are using the Dell Windows disk that came with the computer it should install the drivers automatically, BUT it appears to predate Windows Service Pack 2. Be prepared for large Windows Update downloads.

Matt
Edit: I found a neat listing of hardware using Help and Support, enter System Information -> "Find information about the hardware installed on this computer ".

 

the most important driver is for the network card
If it is an onboard integrated network card then you will need the install disk for the motherboard
Generally it will be drivers for the motherboard
If there are add on cards (PCI and or AGP) for video, sound and other devices you will need those
Either at the dell site if they provide it
Or www.driverguide.com which is a library
a very good automated service which scans your hard drive is

www.drivershq.com

you may want to upgrade direct x as well
older versions ( often at least 8.1 is required) can be found at

www.oldversion.com