Some Windows users encounter a yellow exclamation mark or a driver not installed warning for the "SM Bus Controller" in Device Manager. This typically indicates a missing or corrupted motherboard chipset driver, which can affect system stability and proper hardware operation.
This article provides several effective methods to help you quickly fix SM Bus Controller driver issues and ensure your computer runs smoothly.
1. What is the SM Bus Controller?
The SM Bus Controller (System Management Bus Controller) is part of the motherboard chipset, mainly responsible for transmitting low-speed data between the operating system and various devices on the motherboard, such as sensors and power management chips. If this driver is missing, some hardware monitoring functions may not work properly.
2. Common Symptoms of SM Bus Controller Driver Issues
Yellow exclamation mark on "SM Bus Controller" in Device Manager
"Driver not found" prompts
Abnormal motherboard-related devices, such as disabled temperature control or fan speed adjustment
System instability, occasional errors, or performance degradation
3. How to Fix SM Bus Controller Driver Problems
Method 1: Automatically Fix Drivers with Driver Talent X
For users unfamiliar with hardware models or driver installation, it is recommended to use the professional tool Driver Talent X to automatically scan and fix all driver issues.
Click the download button to get the latest Driver Talent X, install and launch it.
In the "Drivers" tab, select "Scan" and let the software detect all driver statuses on your PC.
Find the SM Bus Controller driver in the scan results and click "Upgrade".
Restart your computer to apply the driver.
Advantages: Simple operation, avoids incorrect driver installation, compatible with major motherboard brands.
Method 2: Install Chipset Driver from Motherboard Official Website
Visit your motherboard brand's official website (e.g., Intel, GIGABYTE, ASUS).
Search for your motherboard model (e.g., B550M DS3H, Z690-A PRO).
Go to the "Drivers & Support" page and select your operating system (Windows 10/11).
Download and install the "Chipset Driver".
Restart your PC, and the SM Bus Controller in Device Manager should return to normal.
Method 3: Update via Device Manager
Press Win + X, open "Device Manager".
Find "SM Bus Controller" under "Other devices", right-click and select "Update driver".
Choose "Search automatically for drivers".
If not found, select "Browse my computer for drivers" and locate the downloaded chipset driver folder.
Follow the prompts to complete installation and restart.
Method 4: Update Windows System
Some SM Bus Controller drivers can be obtained through Windows Update:
Open Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
Click "Check for updates" and wait for the system to download and install available drivers.
Restart your computer and check Device Manager again.
Method 5: Check for Hardware Issues
If the driver problem is fixed but the SM Bus Controller still does not work properly, it might be a hardware issue.
Check your motherboard and hardware connections to ensure nothing is damaged or loose. If hardware faults exist, consider contacting professional technicians for repair.
4. FAQ
Q: Will a missing SM Bus Controller driver affect normal computer use?
A: Generally, it won't cause serious failure but may impact motherboard sensors, power management, and related functions. It's recommended to fix it promptly.
Q: Can I directly download the SM Bus Controller driver files?
A: It's not recommended to download DLL or INF files individually. The correct approach is to install the chipset driver corresponding to your motherboard.
Q: What if the exclamation mark remains after fixing the driver?
A: Try uninstalling the device and scanning for hardware changes again, or use Driver Talent X's automatic repair method described above.
The SM Bus Controller driver is an essential component in Windows systems to ensure stable motherboard functions. When encountering missing drivers, errors, or warnings, prioritize fixing via the official motherboard website or reliable driver tools. By following the effective methods outlined here, you can quickly resolve SM Bus Controller-related issues and keep your system running efficiently and stably.
