New PC

[HuNt3r92]

For Christmas I am wanting a new PC. I have had a look around and I decided I wanted a Quad Core processor. I noticed that Mesh sell some of their mid-range PCs with Quad Core processors so I have been looking at Meshs. Now, the exact one I want, MESH Computers - Award Winning PCs Since 1987 comes with 4GB RAM. That sounded great but I have been told you can only use the dreaded x64 Vista with 4GB RAM. Is this true?

 

[HuNt3r92]

Already tried making a new topic once but that was over an hour ago so I think it must have been declined . This time I'll get straight to the point.

Do you have to run x64 Vista with 4GB RAM?

 

[ANGRYEAGLE]

No. you don't need 4 gb of ram to use 64 bit Vista. I am running 2 gb of Crucial Ballistix Tracer pc 8500 right now on my new computer that I built last night. No problems at all. I will eventually upgrade to 4 gb.

 

[HuNt3r92]

I was thinking more the other way around. I am going to get 4GB RAM but I'm wanting to know if I have to use x64.

 

[mathews2010]

well i believe vista x86 only handles 4 or less..or sumtin..x64 can handle more ram..not sure how much tho..forgot

 

[Asky]

if you want to use the Entire 4GB then u have to go Vista X64 coz the 32-bit version(X86) will let you use only ~3GB or so.(The OS will work fine itll just use 3GB or so).

 

[Brink]

Already tried making a new topic once but that was over an hour ago so I think it must have been declined . This time I'll get straight to the point.

Do you have to run x64 Vista with 4GB RAM?

Hi HuNt3r92,

Welcome to the forum.

No, it was not declined. Sometimes it takes us a bit to approve the posts with links in it for new members. I merged it with this post to keep all your replies together.


You can use 4 GB with the 32 bit Vista, but it may not see all of it. With the 64 bit Vista, you should be able to see all of it listed in available RAM.

These links can provide you with more information on this.

http://blogs.msdn.com/hiltonl/archive/2007/04/13/the-3gb-not-4gb-ram-problem.aspx


http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929605

Shawn

 

[HuNt3r92]

Thanks for the good responses. If I buy a PC with 4GB RAM how would I decide whether I use x32 or x64? Does it ask when you first turn it on?

 

[z3r010]

Nope no options, it comes with what ever the OEM loaded on it x86 or x64

If you want the 4gig of ram and maybe more in the future, the only way to go is x64.

 

[HuNt3r92]

Nope no options, it comes with what ever the OEM loaded on it x86 or x64

If you want the 4gig of ram and maybe more in the future, the only way to go is x64.

So you are saying Brink is wrong?

 

[Brink]

HuNt2r92,

No, Z3r010 is just saying that the computer will not ask you for what version and for 4GB and more you should install the 64 bit version. It will see and use the RAM above 3GB. It is the best option to go. Just make sure that all your devices have 64 bit drivers available for them and you will have no problems with the 64 bit Vista.


The 32 bit can only have 4GB or less, but it may not see and use much of anything above 3GB.

You can read more on this with the links on my post above.

Shawn

 

[HuNt3r92]

Since the computer comes with x64 I'm sure all the devices that come with it will work.

 

[Brink]

Yep, they should with Vista x64 already on it.

 

[HuNt3r92]

Do random pieces of hardware like headsets and USB wireless thingys work with x64?

 

[Brink]

They will work just like on the 32 bit Vista, with some good proper drivers.

Most are just Plug and Play, but some USB devices will require 64 bit drivers for them.
EX: wireless keyboard or mouse

 

[HuNt3r92]

So will my only limitations be some software like iTunes?

 

[Brink]

LOL, I like your avatar.

That should be your only limitation if the devices do not require drivers. As long as the software is compatible with Vista. Better so if for the 64 bit Vista. I never used iTunes, so I cannot confirm it personally, but I know of others that said they used it ok.

 

[HuNt3r92]

Ok thanks for all your responses. I should be ording the PC soon.

 

[Brink]

Your welcome,

Enjoy the new computer.

 

[coljohnhannibalsmith]

Before you buy, please read the following thread:

http://www.vistax64.com/general-discussion/108815-windows-vista-hardware-compatibility-list.html

However; chosing a PC from the Vista Hardware Compatibility List, that is expandable to 4GB is recommended.


-John