Page 1 of 1

Should I trust Microsoft or Lenovo?

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2008 12:04 am
by kookatt
I've found the following driver through Microsoft Windows XP update:

1) Thinkpad LCD Screen Driver
2) Thinkpad trackpoint driver

Given my previous bad experience with the latest Lenovo trackpoint driver (cause BSOD and subsequently withdrawn to old version) Which one should I use, Microsoft or Lenovo?

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2008 10:24 am
by jdhurst
Up to the T4x series, the IBM (Lenovo) drivers were generally preferable. While I have seen here some issues with newer X6x drivers, I would be inclined to keep my preload driver, try the new one, and roll back if necessary. I generally do not use Microsoft drivers because there is a stronger likelihood that the Microsoft driver has not been certified by IBM for use.

The only secure approach is outlined above - retain what you know works, and roll back if necessary.
... JDH

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2008 1:06 pm
by SHoTTa35
umm isnt that the other way around? IBM/Lenovo sends the drivers to Microsoft to be tested and signed and then end up on Windows Update? The drivers there are WHQL which are certified to be good on the OS they are for. I doubt MS spends money making drivers for all the hardware out there and signing it themselves. They might make some for the OS when it's a new release to have a broader list of compatible devices but i doubt MS sends anything to IBM to be certified.

My latest drivers from Windows update all came from Lenovo themselves for my T60. The UltraNav and Power Management drivers and others all were downloaded from WU but they have the Lenovo options in them instead of just the plain jane look. UltraNav eg has the scroll settings and other features.

For my webcam (logitech) the system downloaded drivers from Windows update and installed them then prompted me for more options from Logitech. Didn't really need the software tho, just wanted the driver.

Posted: Wed Feb 06, 2008 7:36 pm
by gunston
Lenovo official driver is more reliable.

Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2008 6:25 am
by Brad
I have also found that as far as drivers go always defer to Lenovo/IBM. More than once the new Microsoft driver has caused trouble.

Brad

Posted: Thu Feb 07, 2008 9:43 am
by gunston
you can use System Update to get the latest and critical updates at the same time.

No hassle to search for necessay drivers from the Lenovo website.