64-bit processor on a x86-based pc

I have a R1. The processor is is an Intel duo T9300, which is a 64-bit processor. The OS is Vista 32-bit. Under system info it is listed as a x86-based pc. I want to add RAM. (I have 2GB's now.)

My question is: If I went with a 64-bit OS (windows 7 or 8) would I be able to take advantage of more RAM? Or does the fact that it's a x86-based pc mean that I am "locked" in at 32-bits (4GB RAM)?

I've Googled & Binged this this to death and the anwsers aren't real clear. Basiclly, I'm deciding between a new laptop or upgrading this one.

Because I know someone will ask: I was set to go the 4GB route when I ordered it, But a guy I knew, and thought knew computers, told me that anything over 2GB is really wasting my money. Of course after it arrived everyone and their brother told me he was wrong, and then he contradicted what he had told me earlier when I asked. Yes he's a jerk.

 

Hi GP0948,

The Intel Core 2 Duo T9300 ARK | Intel® Core is indeed a 64-bit processor. It supports the Intel 64-bit instruction set. The limitations you have for RAM are dependent on two things, namely your OS and your chipset support. Newer Core iX processors (and their variants) have integrated memory controllers, and the processor determine the memory as opposed to the chipset. If you want to be able to use more than 4 GBs (typically only 3 GBs of it is actually available), you would need to upgrade to a 64-bit OS. Then you would be able to use more than 3 GBs of memory. Based on this page: Computer memory upgrades for Alienware M17x Laptop/Notebook from Crucial.com, you max out at 8 GBs of RAM for the M17x R1. So, to make a long post short, yes if you upgraded to a 64-bit version of Windows 7 or 8, you would be able to use up to 8 GBs of RAM. Good luck!

Rich S.

 

Awesommme! Thanks for the info.

 

Great input. Thx for the help. +1 Rep.