Device Driver Basics
A device driver is a program that a computer's operating system uses to control a particular hardware device that is attached to a computer. Devices can range from the display and hard disk drive, to sound cards and video cards. Most operating systems contain device drivers that are built-in, but they can also be installed when a new device is added to the system.
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Functions
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A device driver processes the request of an application and then sends the instruction to the hardware device to produce the output. This is how the display information is sent from the operating system to the display or monitor. A device driver typically has a configuration interface that can be accessed so that the user can make adjustments to the hardware device.
Installation
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A device driver is typically installed when the installation CD for a new hardware device is used to run the setup program. The installation CD contains the device drivers as well as any additional software applications that are needed to use the new hardware device. A device driver will stay on the system until it is removed or uninstalled.
Updating
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Device drivers can be updated on a system using a variety of methods. Typically, a device driver can be downloaded from the manufacturer if an update is available. Many times a manufacturer will update a device driver to add additional functionality or to fix a bug in the program. A device driver can also be updated by installing updates to the operating system or running the setup program from a device's installation CD.
Conflicts
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Sometimes a device driver can conflict with other components on a system. The Device Manager in Windows can be used to see if there is any sort of conflict with an installed device. Conflicts can usually be resolved by repairing corrupt files or removing a device and attempting to reinstall it on the system.
File Types
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A device driver can have a file type of DLL or EXE depending on what type or program is being used. Many software programs that communicate with a device use a combination of DLL and EXE files in order for the device to function properly. An example of this would be a TV Tuner card. Software needs to be installed to display the video on the screen or send audio to the speakers.
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