Driver Certification Issues

The Windows 8 RT has been specifically designed for the ARM devices such as tablets and smart phones. Various driver manufacturers like Nvidia, Qualcomm etc are busy delivering the finishing touches to their Windows 8 RT compatible drivers.

WHQL Testing

Windows Hardware Quality Labs testing or WHQL testing is a testing process conducted by Microsoft on various third party hardware or software to study the compatibility with the Windows software.

Nvidia – Ahead of the Pack

Nvidia has an enviable history of meeting those standards and getting the WHQL driver logo stamped up on them. They have a long history with Microsoft, dating back to the Windows 3.11 to the Windows 7 operating systems, and this wonderful working relationship has resulted in Nvidia being a touch better prepared for the future than their rivals.

However, getting the necessary driver certification has not proved to be a walk in the park for certain other companies such as Qualcomm and Texas Instruments. According to some Far East based sources, it is rumored that Qualcomm and Texas Instruments are still facing some serious challenges in getting the WHQL certification for the Windows 8 RT operating system. Also, the same sources are indicating that Nvidia is far ahead of their competition in getting the necessary certification and that it won’t probably have any problem shipping the final Windows 8 drivers.

So, it is safe to assume that, Qualcomm might be late with their Windows 8 RT notebooks and that; it might prove a tall order for them to meet the launch date with design wins. Rumor mills are also busy running stories about Texas Instruments being in the same boat

Driver Certification Issues

as Qualcomm, and rumors suggests that, they might also miss out on meeting the design certification in time. At least, Texas Instruments with their OMAP 5 won’t get WHQL stamps, that much is clear. However, both these companies are really working hard to launch the systems together after getting the certification, but only time will tell us whether they will succeed.

Windows 8 RT Destined for Success

Windows 8 RT is expected to be a great success, which will in turn propel the sale of Windows 8 RT tablets, notebooks and convertibles. Getting both the services of tablets and notebooks in one device seems to be the latest trend which may pile pressure upon Intel based Windows 8 tablets, notebooks and ultrabooks, which may in turn leads to a new level of price and feature wars among the manufacturers.