32 or 64 ?

[mcleod55]

Can I install 32 bit version and later switch to 64 bit when I can get more ram?

 

[zigzag3143]

Can I install 32 bit version and later switch to 64 bit when I can get more ram?

Hi and welcome


Of course you can but you will have to do a clean install and re-install your apps

Hope this helps


Ken J

 

[ba5ik]

You have more than enough RAM to go 64, so why wouldnt you? 64 bit doesn't require more RAM, it can use more to put it simply.

With your specs there is no reason to go 64 from the start...

 

[Win7User512]

RAM isn't the only factor to consider. Do you have older devices which may not have equivalent 64-bit drivers available?

 

[Crazy Buddhist]

Not only do you have more than enough RAM - the 32 bit version won't even be using all you have whereas the 64 bit version will.

I'd try installing 64 right away as that is where computing is going, your system can handle it and, as long as you aren't left with a bunch of non working peripherals, you have nothing to lose.

Crazy B

 

[mcleod55]

Sorry, I should have been a little clearer on my original post. I am already running 64 bit on mine. I am updating my sons computer. He has a Athlon 64 2.4 ghz processor with 2 gb ram. I know his system would be fine going 64 bit with more ram. Not so sure how it would do with just 2gb though. That's why I was wanting info on going 32 bit to start with and later going to the 64 bit OS.

Thanks again for the input.

 

[zx81]

Sorry, I should have been a little clearer on my original post. I am already running 64 bit on mine. I am updating my sons computer. He has a Athlon 64 2.4 ghz processor with 2 gb ram. I know his system would be fine going 64 bit with more ram. Not so sure how it would do with just 2gb though. That's why I was wanting info on going 32 bit to start with and later going to the 64 bit OS.

Thanks again for the input.

Hello mcleod55,

Why not using this moment to upgrade the memory of your sons computer? It is not that expensive if I am correct.
I installed Windows 7 x64, and it works great

Best regards,

zx81

 

[poin2]

I'd just go ahead and put 64-bit on his system to start so you don't have to fresh install again later.

It simply won't shine as much as it can with only 2GB, but it should work fine. You can add more RAM as you want. The main concern right now is if any older hardware you have lying around doesn't have 64-bit drivers.

I'd only put on 32-bit if you have zero plan to upgrade the RAM, ever.

 

[Win7User512]

Careful putting x64 on 2GB of RAM, as 2GB is the minimum for x64.

 

[Darryl Licht]

Another item to consider is since it is your sons PC... he probably has many games.

Check them all to make sure they will run on 64 bit OS... or Daddy may have to buy new games!

And 2GB RAM is only $50-60 USD!

 

[Crazy Buddhist]

Careful putting x64 on 2GB of RAM, as 2GB is the minimum for x64.

x64 Runs fine with 2G of RAM. Perfectly responsive. Typically win 7 seems to use a third or so of available RAM for itself. x64 is no different. Currently running it on Athlon x2 4200+ with 2G of DDR1 ... everything does fine including all the eye candy.

I think the point about old games is more relevant but then a dual boot with XP for the legacy stuff is worth considering.

Crazy B

 

[mcleod55]

OK...I posted my question after the fact. I installed 32 bit (worried about the 2 gb ram) That's when I started thinking about if I did the wrong thing. Games is no problem. Play Station 3 for games. None on computer. So a follow up question. Since I've already installed and activated the 32 bit. How do I go about a do-over and going with 64? I did the clean install because of XP before. Can I just put the 64 copy in at start up and do another clean install?

 

[zx81]

OK...I posted my question after the fact. I installed 32 bit (worried about the 2 gb ram) That's when I started thinking about if I did the wrong thing. Games is no problem. Play Station 3 for games. None on computer. So a follow up question. Since I've already installed and activated the 32 bit. How do I go about a do-over and going with 64? I did the clean install because of XP before. Can I just put the 64 copy in at start up and do another clean install?

Hello mcleod55,

Use a clean install.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1649-clean-install-windows-7-a.html?ltr=C
or if you only need a quick answer...
Just boot the Windows 7 x64 disc.
Select custom installation, use advanced disk options, and remove all partitions.
Select the correct disk to install Windows 7 on, and your ready.
That simple is it

Have a nice day,

zx81

 

[Dave76]

OK...I posted my question after the fact. I installed 32 bit (worried about the 2 gb ram) That's when I started thinking about if I did the wrong thing. Games is no problem. Play Station 3 for games. None on computer. So a follow up question. Since I've already installed and activated the 32 bit. How do I go about a do-over and going with 64? I did the clean install because of XP before. Can I just put the 64 copy in at start up and do another clean install?

Yes your correct.
You will have to do a Clean install when going from 32bit to 64bit OS.
The same key will work, usually without any problems, but you might have to call MS and tell them you install the 64bit and formatted the 32bit, and they will approve it.

64bit will run just fine with 2GB RAM.

You can use the tutorial posted by zx81.

Let us know how the installation goes.