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    32 Bit vs. 64 bit

    Discussion in 'Hardware Components and Aftermarket Upgrades' started by bjdelro, Aug 1, 2006.

  1. bjdelro

    bjdelro Notebook Consultant

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    Hey guys, just like to know what's the difference between a 32bit processor vs a 64bit. What are the pros and cons of the two? Thanks y'all!
     
    bjdelro, Aug 1, 2006
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  2. brianstretch

    brianstretch Notebook Virtuoso

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    64-bit CPUs will run 64-bit Linux now and 64-bit Windows Vista when Microsoft releases it. AMD 64-bit CPUs get a performance boost in AMD64 mode thanks to various architectural improvements. Intel's copy of the AMD64 instruction set gets less of a boost.

    Since we're rapidly heading up against the 4GB RAM barrier (2GB is pretty common for power users these days) people are going to start switching to 64-bit binaries in the next year or two, which won't run on 32-bit-only CPUs. So 64-bit capable CPUs are a lot more future-proof. A lot depends on how long it takes Microsoft to debug Windows Vista. If you run normal 32-bit Windows XP you won't be taking advantage of the processor's 64-bit capabilities.

    64-bit Linux has been out for years. Dunno what Microsoft's problem is.
     
    brianstretch, Aug 1, 2006
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  3. Zero

    Zero The Random Guy

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    most programs are not 64-bit yet, and until it really happens, a 32-Bit processor will suffice. I must however say, that it is always better to go with a 64-bit processor, because there are so many of them, and because its very well priced.
     
    Zero, Aug 1, 2006
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  4. Underpantman

    Underpantman Notebook Virtuoso

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    It will be around 3-5years before 64bit is mainstream. And if all your planning on doing is email/web/office stuff then there is no need to worry about 64bit. It doesnt even offer that much if any improvement for those above tasks. That said, with merom now released and AMD64, you might as well get one of these in preference to anything else.
    For the pros and cons I'll refer you to this article
    a
    :)
     
    Underpantman, Aug 1, 2006
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  5. gridtalker

    gridtalker Notebook Virtuoso

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    I agree always go with 64.
     
    gridtalker, Aug 1, 2006
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  6. bjdelro

    bjdelro Notebook Consultant

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    Thanks for all your replies! Those info were enough to get me up to speed with these changes in technology. One more question though, would an Inspiron 640m core duo be upgradeable to a core 2 duo?
     
    bjdelro, Aug 1, 2006
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  7. SpAcEmAn SpLiFF

    SpAcEmAn SpLiFF Notebook Enthusiast

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    do you mean after you buy it? because in that case, no
     
    SpAcEmAn SpLiFF, Aug 1, 2006
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  8. Zero

    Zero The Random Guy

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    Iit's hard to say. it depends on if Dell will bring out a Bios update, to support Core 2 Duo. Plus you would have to install the processor yourself. It's best to wait until Core 2 Duo is available through the Dell website, and buy it that way. It will be the same price, so its just a case of waiting.
     
    Zero, Aug 1, 2006
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