What is the best way to find/search for windows drivers for unknown hardware :cool: (aka Other Devices)?

Thanks, in advance...

You have to knowwhat the unknown device is before finding the driver for it I'm afraid. Look in Device Manager for any red "X"s or yellow exlamation marks, that will lead to the problem device type. Then you'll have to know the make and model on the hardware device in order to get the proper drivers.

Karma, for sure there is a better way... Especially, when the hardware is installed in a laptop. Seems to me the hardware vendor and the device description, model info, etc is written into the device firmware. P2P

You're right, if it's a laptop your options become more limited. There are some utilities out there that scan the motherboard and report back all hardware found. For example: PC Wizard
I sometimes use the dxdiag utility that is part of Windows (Start > Run, type in "dxdiag"), it's meant for info on DirectX but you get much more.

Good luck.

I'm sure you've probably tried this but a lot of PC manufacturers keep databases of their PC models and the hardware inside. If your manufacturer has that it could be a case of comparing that list with the Device Manager and see what's missing.

Nice... I have never heard of dxdiag. Nice compliment to msinfo32... In addition, I will checkout pcwizard. I wish I could locate an app that reads problem hardware devices firmware to retrieve the product name & details.

Thanks!

P2E

Quote:

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Originally Posted by NeedKarma

You're right, if it's a laptop your options become more limited. There are some utilities out there that scan the motherboard and report back all hardware found. For example: PC Wizard
I sometimes use the dxdiag utility that is part of Windows (Start > Run, type in "dxdiag"), it's meant for info on DirectX but you get much more.

Good luck.

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LT,

I did check the mfg website. Nonetheless, a great idea for the many who many overlook this option! Thanks...

P2E

Quote:

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Originally Posted by LTheobald

I'm sure you've probably tried this but a lot of PC manufacturers keep databases of their PC models and the hardware inside. If your manufacturer has that it could be a case of comparing that list with the Device Manager and see what's missing.

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Belarc Advisor - Free Personal PC Audit
"The Belarc Advisor builds a detailed profile of your installed software and hardware, missing Microsoft hotfixes, anti-virus status, CIS (Center for Internet Security) benchmarks, and displays the results in your Web browser. All of your PC profile information is kept private on your PC and is not sent to any web server."


Gives an inventory of what's inside your computer

TommyP - thanks... I remember belarc from another past issue. Yet, another great solution.

P2E