Driver update package; how would you know if it included you

[videobruce]

When a manufacture (ATI or nVidea) updates their driver package, just how can one know if your specific card was updated? Other than release notes that address specific issues with specific cards, just how could anyone know if updateing would be worth it?

IOW's you could wind up re-installing the same files for your card especially if it is a older card.

Before anyone suggests; if you aren't having issues with your system, don't upgrade,while that might be true, there could be performance issues that might be addressed with a newer driver version.
On the other hand, I do understand; if it ain't broke, don't fix it.

 

[The_Abyss]

The release notes normally indicate what issues have been addressed, even down to a specific card level.

 

[videobruce]

Then if nothing is mentioned, your card wasn't changed and it wouldn't do any good to bother to upgrade to that package??

 

[The_Abyss]

It may also add functionality, or more likely, may add improvements for a specific game. You can always just roll back if it doesn't work.

 

[videobruce]

You can always just roll back if it doesn't work.

I would rather avoid going through all of the if there isn't some real change/improvement. I don't mean more benchmark points either.

The cards are ATI based 9600Pro and a 8500 (9100).