dv9260us OS Question

I am looking at purchasing an HP Pavilion DV9260US notebook. I know that it comes pre-loaded with MS Windows Vista but it doesn't specify if it's 64-bit or 32-bit. I've called HP on 3 different occasions and have received different answers.

On HP's website, there's drivers available for both so I'm not sure how to find out except to ask.

My other question is > Does HP provide the Vista Ultimate CD for re-installation because my understanding is that Vista Ultimate comes with both versions of the O/S and you can choose which one to install.

I'm a little worried about the 64-bit Vista because I've been reading about some software not running. I'd like to know what I'm getting before I buy and unfortunately HP has been unable to tell me

 

It will be 32 bit.

HP will provide ONLY a way to make the recovery CDs/DVD for your notebook...which will only reinstall the 32bit version of Vista. To make things worse, an OEM key is only for one of the types of Vista. You get a 32bit key, you cannot use that key on a 64bit install.

 

Thank you for the speedy reply... The HP Canada sales guy told me exactly that. But when I talked to the HP sales people earlier today (didn't say where they were located) I was told that it was 64-bit. I was also told that you couldn't load 32-bit Vista on a 64-bit machine

Anyway thanks again. I'll probably order this puppy up.

 

Couldn't load 32-bit Vista on a 64-bit machine...wow...that's just stupid. By that logic, XP wouldn't even work on all machines with a Core 2, Turion 64, or Turion X2.

 

Night... this information is wrong.

On vista you can use your 32-bit Key to use in 64-Bit of same version.

Ex: My NB come with 32-Bit Home Premium Preloaded. I downloaded 64 Bit Version via Torrent and installed with my key.

Activation is successfully too.

 

Which one was better?

 

The differences between the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Vista are small now, with the only exception being finding drivers. Personally, I would just stick with the 32-bit version until more drivers are available and save yourself the trouble.

As for trying to install 64-bit Vista, you're going to need to get the 64-bit version of the installation DVD somehow. Your key will work fine. There is no such thing as a "32-bit key" or "64-bit key", they will all validate Vista just fine. The only difference between any type of keys for Vista is Retail/OEM and Upgrade and it only limits your installation options. All will work with the same physical disk unlike XP.

 

As a confirmation for future owners of the laptop, Windows Vista Ultimate pre-loaded is 64-bit and not 32-bit.

System Properties shows the System Type "64-bit Operating System".

It's also nice to know that I could load the 32-bit using the key that I have if I run into trouble. I'd just have to find an OEM DVD.