64 vs 32

Hi, here is a good explanation of the 64bit v 32bit.

64-bit: More than just the RAM http://www.bit-tech.net/bits/2007/10/16/64-bit_more_than_just_the_ram/1

richc46 said:

Im back early, it was easy. This is the official MS list of compatible programs.




Windows 7 Compatibility Center home

Thanks for that official link; very useful indeed :)

I should add that most often software that is not on the Microsoft compatibility list will still work in Windows 7 x64. I have lots of 32-bit software that is not officially supported for Windows 7 - including some very specialized professional stuff - and all works well. I can't recall a single one that does not work.

Although, strike that - the Adobe Acrobat and the Sony PMB did not work in x64 at first. Eventually they came up with x64 patches - and now everything works well.

Of course, if the software somehow relies on 16-bit code - then that's it, no go.

unifex said:

... the Adobe Acrobat and the Sony PMB did not work in x64 at first. Eventually they came up with x64 patches - and now everything works well.

IMO that is the best use of the Compatibility Center (there's one for Vista, too) - locating patches and product updates easily. If you're using it to decide whether to upgrade to Windows 7 at all, then you're likely to be disappointed by the *apparent* lack of support for many programs. If you're already running 7 however, it can be a quick resource for troubleshooting finicky software.

Cheers,

Walker
Windows Outreach Team

There is one more thing to go into the mix. I do BSOD's and lately we have been having a plague of 64bit. Much more than 32bit. DOnt know why but of my last 500 44 were 32 bit.

That would make me nervous


Ken

WalkerA WinTeam said:

unifex said:

... the Adobe Acrobat and the Sony PMB did not work in x64 at first. Eventually they came up with x64 patches - and now everything works well.

IMO that is the best use of the Compatibility Center (there's one for Vista, too) - locating patches and product updates easily. If you're using it to decide whether to upgrade to Windows 7 at all, then you're likely to be disappointed by the *apparent* lack of support for many programs. If you're already running 7 however, it can be a quick resource for troubleshooting finicky software.

Cheers,

Walker
Windows Outreach Team

To be honest - I did not find the Sony PMB at all on the official list. The Acrobat is there, although I had to use the search function to find it - I have no idea in which category they have sorted this one. Yet the Sony software is working and is very important to me - otherwise my camcorder would be totally useless.

unifex said:

To be honest - I did not find the Sony PMB at all on the official list. The Acrobat is there, although I had to use the search function to find it - I have no idea in which category they have sorted this one. Yet the Sony software is working and is very important to me - otherwise my camcorder would be totally useless.

Yeah, as noted in previous posts the list is hardly comprehensive. If Sony PMB is important to you however, you should definitely suggest its addition to the list.

I think part of the problem could be manufacturers who don't prioritize putting their own products on that list, let alone keeping it updated with the newest compatibility information. Customers should be able to use the Compatibility Center, not have to build it themselves...

Walker
Windows Outreach Team

EDIT: Also, I hardly ever browse by product type - IMO the search function is faster.