How do I install 32 bit after selecting 64 on first boot

Hi people

I have searched for answers on here and others.

I bought a new HP laptop last week and it give me the option to install 32 or 64, I choose 64. I now want to install 32 bit as having probs with certain software.

When I use the recovery manager it does not give me the option and just re-installs the 64 bit version.

Thanks

 

When you say you opted to install the 64-bit, do you mean when you went through the installation, or when you ordered the laptop? Because if you ordered the laptop with 64-bit you need to purchase the Windows anytime upgrade disk and then install the 32 bit version of Vista.

Also, what programs are you having problems with inside of 64-bit? Have you downloaded and installed all the updates for Vista? I guess we should make a thread that has all the known programs that are having problems inside of 64-bit Vista for future reference.

 

At first boot it asked if I wanted to install 32 or 64 so I picked 64. It's software that I use for work which is not available to the public and I'm now told that they have updated it to work with vista but will not work on 64 bit version

 

So have you tried updating Windows Vista?

 

Yes,

I need to install 32bit, nothing I use is compatible (only after I found out of course)

I have been to the software makers who tell me it won't work with 64 vista.

Is there someway to get the option back

 

I've never heard this happen before, because for the most part they only sell 32 OR 64 bit versions of Vista with their laptops. I would give HP a call and ask them, unless other people on this forum have had a similar issue. Sorry I couldn't help further.

 

He is referring to an HP business notebook, which does give you a choice as to which version to install on first boot. No one really knows if the choice is a permanent one though.

 

You may be able to get the option back if you do a full factory restore using the recovery discs. If you don't have them, you should be able to burn them. I'm not familiar with the business lines, so I'm not sure the full process. Otherwise, you will have to obtain a 32bit Vista disc and reinstall clean from that. See my clean install guide for details.

 

I'll know within a week or two if you can change the bitness, as I'm restoring my 8710p to factory install to prepare for selling it.

 

Oh ok, I haven't come across this issue yet so I didn't realize that their business models let you choose.

Thanks

 

Yes, that's right it is the business model.

I have already ran the recovery but it doesn't give the option again