6920G - Win 7 Clean Install Log

Hey, so it's that time of year again, and before I head back for my last semester of medical school, I've decided to reformat my computer and do a fresh install since I've had a few quirks with Windows 7 since my last install (first time, switched from Vista Ultimate 64-bit). I just want to share my experiences with everyone, in hopes that it might be useful to someone or if I missed anything, that other users can help chip in with their experiences.

Some basic info: my 320GB HDD (298GiB) has been partitioned into a 32GB C: for OS/programs and 266GB D: for my data and I will be installing Windows 7 Ultimate 64-bit via original DVD. I've searched around for the latest drivers for my system and since most are generic, I've opted to get the latest from the respective hardware companies themselves, listed here:

- nVidia 9500M GS GPU v. 258.96 (from nvidia.com)
- Atheros AR81XX LAN v. 1.0.0.22 (confusing unless you read the setup.ini file, 1.0.0.49 is the Vista version and what it shows under the download)
- Intel 3945ABG WLAN v. 13.​2.​1.​5 (from intel.com)
- Synaptics Touchpad v. 14.0.3 (from synaptics.com)
- Suyin Webcam v. 2.0.8.3 (from Acer, not sure if there is any better but 3.0.6.3 doesn't work)
- Realtek HD Audio v. 2.51 (from realtek.com - new update!)
- JMicron JMB38X Card Reader v. 1.00.47 (from jmicron.com)
- Dritek Launch Manager 3.0.0.2 (from Acer, not sure if there is any better but didn't find 2.0.0.7 to be any better)
- Intel Rapid Storage Technology 9.​​6.​​0.​​1014 (from intel.com)

Windows 7 found newer Bluetooth drivers than Acer's, after I pressed the button to turn it on, so I didn't install theirs. I don't use the fingerprint reader, CIR, or modem, so those weren't installed either. I welcome any suggestions of what other hardware drivers to install or if anyone has any questions.

As a reminder: before I formatted, I took a screenshot of my RMClock settings, Firefox passwords and addons, exported Firefox bookmarks, and of course backed up all my data to my WD 1TB 2.5" external HDD.

Edit: Update 1 - Clean install success! 1st boot took around 30 sec, optimized a few things and reduced it to 23 sec. Now to update Windows and install the programs... First off, to test out Office 2010! Now, MSE, RMClock, Firefox (+ addons), Foxit Reader, WinAMP, Skype, WinRAR, CCCP, QT/Real Alternative, Everything, Aerofoil, SmartDefrag, CCleaner, and some USMLE programs. Boot time is now 40 sec.

http://forum.notebookreview.com/win...-boot-time-tweaks-allowed-40.html#post6555475

 

Do the latest Realtek drivers still break the Tuba?
And it looks like I need to update my webcam - only using the generic Windows driver there.

 

What do you mean break the Tuba? I rarely use my laptop speakers (headphones or speakers) but I'm testing them now on max system and WinAMP volume, without any crackling or abnormal distortion (on default audio settings except in Acer HD Audio Manager set speaker config to 5.1 and disabled all the speakers except the front L/R and subwoofer - though to be honest there isn't much difference than the stereo configuration, and under speaker properties, all sliders are set to 100%).

 

I mean that when I've used drivers other than the original Vista drivers, the Tuba does nothing. I move the Internal Subwoofer from 100% to 0% without any impact, and the sound is tinny and garbage.

 

I've just tested that and I can definitely notice a difference when internal subwoofer is changed from 0 to 100%. It does add a little bass though and while it's still not great, it's a bit better than most notebooks I've heard.

 

Good, that's what's supposed to happen.
OK, time to make a System Restore point and update some drivers!

 

I'm debating about whether to update the BIOS to v. 1.16. I haven't seen anyone try it yet lol.

 

Still on 1.14 myself - don't risk it.

EDIT: And it looks like I have the Bison webcam instead of the Suyin.

EDIT 2: And the latest Realtek drivers work! About time.

 

That's great (about the Realtek drivers)! I guess I'll stick to 1.14 too for the BIOS.

 

Updated the log

 

OK, bit of an update - 2.50 has gotten rid of the occasional distortion of the sound, but now my DPC latency has gotten worse. I get occasional pops and stutters.
You noticing the same thing?

EDIT: And right on cue, 2.51's released. Update time!

EDIT 2: No wait, it was my Intel Wifi drivers. Got the latest set, no mo' problems.

 

Just dled the 2.51 Realtek drivers. So it was the wireless card giving you issues with the sound but the update fixed it?

 

Updating both seemed to fix it, although the wireless card made an impact even before I installed the Realtek drivers.