64-bit: More than just the RAM

64-bit: More than just the RAM
Author: Brett Thomas
Published: 16th Oct 2007


Introduction
If you're a member of this or any other technology-based forum, odds are that you've noticed the several versions of Microsoft's latest offering, Windows Vista. If you haven't, well... please come out from under that rock and get with the programming!

One of the biggest changes has been the clear offering and even a gentle push towards the 64-bit version of the OS. Indubitably, this extra option becomes fodder for forum discussion, usually along the line of:

Forumite 1: "Hi, I am building a new system and I wanted to know what your thoughts were on whether I should use 64-bit or 32-bit Vista? I've heard varying things around the net regarding compatibility, and was hoping someone could help."
Forumite 2: "Hi! I just read your post. You should definitely go with the 32-bit version. There's tons of compatibility problems with 64b (Just look at XP-64), and it's going to die a long, drawn-out death. Besides, the only actual difference between them is that 64-bit can make proper use of 4GB of RAM."
Forumite 1: "Oh, ok! Thanks!"

Now, what's wrong with this picture? The answer is a lot. Time and time again, self-proclaimed gurus determine that the only real difference between 32-bit computing and 64-bit computing is the memory limit. Are they right that RAM is a reason? Definitely - but that's missing about 99 percent of the true differences. By that logic, the only major difference between your old 8-bit Nintendo console and your Xbox 360 is processor speed. I think we can all agree, that's just wrong.

Read More at the Source :
NOTE: Very informative. Be sure to click Next Page at the bottom for all of it.

Bit-tech.net: 64-bit: More than just the RAM < Click Link Here

   Tip

More articles in the links below posted from inside this thread:

• Could 64-bit Windows finally be taking off?
• You’ve got Vista x64 questions, I’ve got answers
• Time For A 64bit OS?
• Chomping at the (64) bit
• What You Need To Know About The Shift to 64-Bit Computing
• Windows x64 Watch List
• Windows Vista Compatibility Center

Enjoy,
Shawn

 

[KrossX]

I've run Vista64 with only 1GB and it was still working very nicely. Of course, only for office working (games not attempted with this low RAM).

By the way, I downloaded the trial for Photoshop CS4 and installed on XP x64, the 64 bits version was installed and usable but OpenGL HW Acceleration was not available for either 32 or 64 bits version in that version of Windows (or so it seemed).

 

[IvanI]

Hello!

I've recently installed Vista x64 on my computer (specs below).
Works like a charm.
I really recommend everyone to upgrade to 4-8GB of RAM since they're cheap as they can get.

 

[Zyonix]

My laptop came standard with Microsoft® Windows Vista® Home Premium x64, but I soon upgraded to Microsoft® Windows Vista® Ultimate x64. Beings that my last laptop, a Sony Vaio VGN-N320e/b, was a 32 bit... I've noticed quite a change.

Yeah SOME, I emphasize the SOME, software isn't compatible, but it's damn well worth it. The Companies who take the time to MAKE x64 compatible stuff are the ones who you should be downloading and/or buying from anyways... obviously they know what they're doing.

But, the speed of a 64 bit... the stability of a 64 bit and the experience of a 64 bit really make it what it is.

If you try one, you'll know the difference... trust me... I did.

 

[johngalt]

not only that, it is easier and easier to compel companies / developers to port their programs over to x64.

I use xplorer^2 as my default file manager - about a year ago we started bugging Nikos, the developer, for an x64 version - and noted that another competitor out there had released a 64bit version as well. Last I checked in was back in June or so, and he was hedging and hawing about supporting x64.

As of this September, he is building x64 (and my purchase of the product several years back is now not a waste as I can continue to use the registered version that supports *my* OS).

As x64 gets more and more popular, the companies will come. Just look at the fact that Adobe is already testing an x64 build of Flash player for *nix....

 

[zebedeeboss]

Excellent Article - Thank You - 64 bit here I come. I have already dl'd all the drivers I need (fingers crossed)

 

[Rodux1]

Hello guys im new here, so i just wanted to ask you if my new pc can run vista 64.

My system specs:

Amd 64 Phenom x3 8450 2.1 @3600 (is it good for new games?)
4gb ram @800
XFX Geforce 8600gt 1gb @540 clock
Samsung 320GB 7200 16mb
but...
my mobo is a "Foxconn M61PMV am2+/am2" made for windows XP but supports Vista. And ill have to keep this mobo for a while, so whould i go back to XP or go for vista 64.

Help me guys, sorry for my bad english :$

 

[zebedeeboss]

Rodux1 - From my limited exposure to 64 bit computing so far... I would say your machine is fine for 64 bit Vista - just make sure you download the relevant drivers before you install

Also that machine should be fine for most games now days... imho

 

[skunksmash]

Hello guys im new here, so i just wanted to ask you if my new pc can run vista 64.

My system specs:

Amd 64 Phenom x3 8450 2.1 @3600 (is it good for new games?)
4gb ram @800
XFX Geforce 8600gt 1gb @540 clock
Samsung 320GB 7200 16mb
but...
my mobo is a "Foxconn M61PMV am2+/am2" made for windows XP but supports Vista. And ill have to keep this mobo for a while, so whould i go back to XP or go for vista 64.

Help me guys, sorry for my bad english :$

yep your system should have no problem running x64 vista.....


SK

 

[Techymike]

64 bit is the way to go, it takes more work but it is NOT the operating system but rather the components used and that specific companies support of drivers. Let us not forget that! Then again that is really what makes us " GEEKS" who we are

 

[Romantix]

Just to add Dmex,

Is there any advantage or disadvantage to running 64-bit Windows on a system with only 1-2GB of RAM?
I haven’t specifically tested this, but I certainly wouldn’t recommend Vista x64 on a system with 1GB of RAM. With 2GB, it’s probably a wash and only worth doing if you are certain you will upgrade the system to 4GB or more. Because there’s no upgrade path from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows, this strategy avoids the need to reinstall the operating system from scratch and migrate all your programs and data files after completing the RAM upgrade.

Upgrade path available from 32-bit to 64-bit?
There is a upgrade path available for those who have purchased Windows Vista under the retail channel, unfortunately manufactured desktops/laptops with preinstalled OS miss out on this one, But it is available through the following website for a small fee of about 15-17$ AUD.
Windows Vista Alternate Media

 

[KrossX]

I've used Vista x64 with 1GB of RAM (of course, not ment for gaming), the main disadvantage is like with any OS... you'll be prone to run low in memory and have disk thrashing.

As for advantages, you have all the "x64" brand advantages.
You'll be able to run 64bit software, and have all the features not present on Vista 32bit.

That's why "64bit is more than just the RAM" =P
Feel free to read the entire thread.

 

[canuslupusVista]

The simple question I have is will the programs & hardware I now use with Vista 32 likely, say 80% or more, work with Vista 64? My main reason to switch is for photoshop.

 

[KrossX]

The most imporant thing is that 64bit OS requires 64bit drivers. Thus, any program that works uses 32bit drivers, will fail. Also, 16bit compatibility is completely dropped, so no such program nor installer will work. (many old 32bit applications had 16bit installer headers)

Although, even with that, most applications do work. If your application is driver based, search for a 64bit version. If it's an old 16bit application, you can also try VirtualPC, there's a free version of it.

But, if you plan to just "jump" into 64bit for Photoshop... there's no much of an improvement there, not yet. There are minor improvements, but not much to justify a "jump".

 

[canuslupusVista]

Thanks KrossX for the comment. I think I will postpone the change until a more compelling reason emerges.

Canauslupus

 

[rasmasyean]

The most imporant thing is that 64bit OS requires 64bit drivers. Thus, any program that works uses 32bit drivers, will fail. Also, 16bit compatibility is completely dropped, so no such program nor installer will work. (many old 32bit applications had 16bit installer headers)

Although, even with that, most applications do work. If your application is driver based, search for a 64bit version. If it's an old 16bit application, you can also try VirtualPC, there's a free version of it.

But, if you plan to just "jump" into 64bit for Photoshop... there's no much of an improvement there, not yet. There are minor improvements, but not much to justify a "jump".

What are the advantages of 64-bit computing?
In early testing of 64-bit support in Photoshop for Windows®, overall performance gains ranged from 8% to 12%. Those who work with extremely large files may realize noticeably greater gains in performance, in some cases as dramatic as ten times the previous speed. This is because 64-bit applications can address larger amounts of memory and thus result in less file swapping — one of the biggest factors that can affect data processing speed.
http://www.adobe.com/products/photoshop/photoshop/faq/?promoid=DRHXB

 

[KrossX]

An overall 12% is not much to justify a "jump".

Those who use huge files and those to whom 4GB is not enough at all for desktop usage. They'll find a 64bit OS useful regardless of using Photoshop or not.

 

[rasmasyean]

An overall 12% is not much to justify a "jump".

Those who use huge files and those to whom 4GB is not enough at all for desktop usage. They'll find a 64bit OS useful regardless of using Photoshop or not.

That’s just an example test. Not sure under what conditions, but it’s likely just running Photoshop and nothing else. In Real Life, you might have Word, 5 excels, 10 browsers, 15 PDF’s open and watching a video clip while waiting for your render. It all depends on the user. You always have to consider this when looking at benchmarks and such. It just gives you an idea of what it does and it's not literally representative of what you will actaully get in normal usage.

 

[dinesh]

is there a one-stop website for 64 Bit drivers?

 

[Brink]

Hi Dinesh,

I always found it best and safer to get the drivers directly from the device manufacturer's website.

 

[paliometoxo]

so for 62bit ultimate 4gb ram would be ok?