From 32bit to 64

I'm sure there is a post out there that I can't seem to find, but basically I'm looking for advice on how to make the transition from Vista Home Premium 32bit to 64. The 64bit disk should arrive shortly by mail and I'd like to be ready.
I'm on a Dell XPS M1530.

I apologize for my ignorance, but is it as simple as inserting the disk and then looking for drivers?

Thanks for the help.

 

Insert the disk, then look for drivers.

 

I went through the same process for my Latitude D630. Here is the process that I recommend:

1. Back up any personal files.
2. Put the new Windows disc in, turn on the machine, and go through the install process.
3. Run Windows Update to pick up any updates, plus it should find drivers for most of your hardware.
4. If some drivers are still missing, go to dell.com, support section and download the missing drivers for your computer model.

 

As for 4: Is Dell supporting x64 yet?

 

Hmmm... well for the Latitudes yes... but if it's not supported on your model, then try another model... actually, I thought they started selling XPS models with 64-bit Vista recently, so I assume they would have the drivers up.

 

I contacted Dell via email Chat to verify that my machine was compatible with 64 and they confirmed. The service rep mentioned that I could go to the support site and download drivers. Before going ahead with the upgrade I am going to call and double check.

Thanks for the advice. I feel more comfortable moving forward.

 

No clean install needed?

 

I just recently got a XPS 1530 and installed Vista Ultimate x64 shortly after receiving it. Here is my advice:

1.) Make sure you back up everything you want to keep!
2.) I like to gather all the drivers ill need ahead of time. Dell now has 64 bit drivers available on their Drivers Page. While its not a huge priority or anything, I would go ahead and update the BIOS to A11.
3.) Insert the Vista X64 DVD and push F12 when you get to the Dell Boot Up screen then you will have a list of devices to Boot from. Select the CD/DVD Drive one. And then it will ask you to push a key to continue.
4.) The Vista CD should have a screen pop up about language, region, etc. Just set to your location, etc. Next, i believe it asks about upgrading or doing a clean install. Select the clean install option (it will be the only one you can select).
5.) Next I believe it takes you to your partition configuration. I deleted all of the partitions except for the Media Direct (I never use it any way so im not sure on the exact install procedures for it). and then create/Format a new partition, and then it will start installing after that and it should be smooth sailing.

At some point between step 4 and 5 it will ask about a license key. Select the version of vista you are going to use, and if you are going to use the x64 bit Home premium then you can use the Windows key that is on the windows sticker on the bottom of your laptop.

When it comes to installing drivers, I install the Dell Notebook System Software Driver first, and then the Intel Chipset driver. Then after that there isn't necessarily any particular order. If you have further questions you can PM me and Ill be glad to help you with the installation or what drivers to install.

 

You have to do a clean install because you can't "upgrade" from 32 bit to 64 bit. You have to do a clean install of it.

 

I may take you up on your offer for assistance. We have almost identical configuration.

From what I understand I am about to do a clean install. Does this mean that I will start with a clean system; no preinstalled bloatware? Will I have to pull out my re-install disks that shipped with the computer? Are they 64bit compatible, such as MacAfee?

On a different note...how do you like your 64bit system compared to the 32. I'm looking forward to taking advantage of all 4gigs of Ram. I just recently received my computer. If there is ever a time to make the jump to 64 its now, when I really have nothing on my computer to lose.

 

Alrighty, im on here several times daily so if you should need help i can reply within a few hours.

Yes you will be doing a clean install. That does mean you will have a clean system, no pre-installed bloatware. You will need your drivers CD, Media Direct (if you use this feature, I dont so i may not be able to help you as far as installing Media Direct). I am not 100% sure about your antivirus program. You should be able to go to their website and look under FAQ and see if it is compatible. I dont see why it wouldnt be though.

I love it with 64 bit, I can tell a difference between vista 32 and 64 bit. I mean its not necessarily big difference but its noticeable.