System Information Viewer (SIV) by Ray Hinchliffe: A Robust Hardware Diagnostic Tool

SIV is a comprehensive system information utility supporting various hardware components and recent OS versions, with frequent updates and extensive device support.
SIV provides an extensive array of features that cover almost every aspect of system information and monitoring. Users can access detailed information about the CPU, chipset, network interfaces such as Wi-Fi, PCI bus, USB bus, disk SMART status, volumes, battery status, and Windows system parameters. Its design emphasizes real-time data presentation which is crucial for accurate diagnostics and hardware monitoring.
The software is compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit architectures, supporting versions labeled SIV32X, SIV64X, and legacy versions like SIV32L. Notably, it supports contemporary operating systems including Windows 11 (specifically build 27898 with version 25H2), along with older Windows platforms, ensuring broad usability.
Installation files are distributed through multiple trusted download mirrors including FileCroco, MajorGeeks, Softpedia, and TechSpot. The current release package contains the main executable and update programs for device ID definitions such as monitor IDs (mondevs.zip), PCI device IDs (pcidevs.zip), and USB device IDs (usbdevs.zip). These updates ensure the tool remains current with evolving hardware landscapes.
A significant aspect of SIV is its support for advanced hardware detection and configuration options. It can identify specific chipsets like NVidia nForce MCP75L and processors such as the Intel i486 CPUID 0402. In addition, it offers support for newer hardware including MSI and Tyan motherboards. This makes it a valuable resource for troubleshooting complex issues or performing detailed system audits.
The interface offers extensive menu navigation including machine setup configurations under 'SIV Setup AIO' and hardware linking features accessible via 'Link Devices'. Users can also access various diagnostic tools such as error reporting setup with options for creating mini dumps to aid in troubleshooting software issues.
SIV’s utility extends into system security and management through features like SMBus locking—allowing global or local lock configurations—and integration with third-party tools like AIDA64 and HWiNFO for enhanced performance monitoring. System administrators can also configure system event logging using Dr. Watson or Windows built-in error reporting tools.
The software provides multiple update capabilities for device ID databases ensuring that it keeps pace with new hardware releases. This capability enhances its longevity as a reliable asset for ongoing system diagnostics.
Support services include an active forum hosted on the official website and direct email contact for licensing or support inquiries. The developer emphasizes ongoing updates and bug fixes without known issues reported at this time.
SIV presents a robust suite of features suitable for in-depth system analysis and troubleshooting. Its support for a broad range of hardware components and operating systems makes it a versatile tool in the domain of system information utilities.
Overview
SIV is a Freeware software in the category System Utilities developed by Ray Hinchliffe.
The users of our client application UpdateStar have checked SIV for updates 1,382 times during the last month.
The latest version of SIV is 5.81, released on 05/15/2025. It was initially added to our database on 11/25/2007.
SIV runs on the following operating systems: Windows.
Users of SIV gave it a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
Pros
- Comprehensive hardware monitoring capabilities, including CPU, chipset, network, disk SMART, battery, and more.
- Supports multiple architectures and processor types, including Intel, AMD, and legacy systems.
- Regular updates with support for recent hardware and OS versions like Windows 11.
- Good variety of download mirrors and version options (64-bit, 32-bit, legacy).
- Provides detailed reports and diagnostics useful for troubleshooting hardware issues.
Cons
- Limited publicly available user reviews or third-party evaluations to gauge reliability.
- The interface and extensive technical details suggest it may have a steep learning curve for casual users.
- No explicit mention of automation features or remote monitoring capabilities.
- Possible licensing or registration requirements not clearly specified in the overview.
- The software appears to be primarily targeted at technical users, which might limit accessibility for general consumers.
FAQ
What is SIV by Ray Hinchliffe?
SIV (System Information Viewer) by Ray Hinchliffe is a comprehensive system monitoring and information tool that provides details about various hardware components and system status.
Which operating systems does SIV support?
SIV supports Windows operating systems, including recent versions like Windows 11, and can detect a wide range of hardware components on these systems.
What hardware components can SIV identify?
SIV can identify processors (such as Core i9, Ryzen 9, Intel Xeon), chipsets, CPUs, storage devices, network interfaces, USB and PCI buses, batteries, and more.
Where can I download SIV?
SIV can be downloaded from various mirrors including FileCroco, FileHorse, MajorGeeks, Softpedia, and TechSpot.
What are some new features in the latest version of SIV?
The latest release (version 5.82) added support for Intel Xeon Dual Core (Sossaman), Nvidia nForce MCP75L chipset support, detection of certain CPUs on Windows NT, support for Windows 11 25H2 Build 27898, and support for specific motherboards like MSI MS-7721.
Does SIV support remote device management or only local monitoring?
SIV primarily provides local system information and monitoring. There's no mention of remote management features.
Is there support available if I encounter issues with SIV?
Yes, support is available through the SIV Support Forum on Ray Hinchliffe's website and via email at [email protected].
Can I customize or configure SIV's monitoring options?
Yes, SIV offers configuration options accessible through its menu to customize system monitoring and device linkages.
Is SIV free or commercial software?
SIV appears to be free for download; however, there is an option for a commercial license available via contact email.
How does SIV ensure compatibility with new hardware and operating systems?
The latest updates include support for new chipsets, CPUs, motherboards, and operating system versions like Windows 11, ensuring compatibility with recent hardware and software environments.

Boris Weber
I am an editor at UpdateStar. I started as a support engineer, and am now specialized in writing about general software topics from a usability and performance angle among others. I telecommute from UpdateStar’s Berlin office, when I am not working remote as a digital nomad for UpdateStar. When I'm not analyzing the latest software updates, you can find me exploring new cities, immersing myself in local cultures, and discovering innovative tech trends across the globe.
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