Should I install x64?

[pooksahib]

Hello. I've just noticed that my PC can handle 64 bit. And I've just gone and installed Windows 7 32 bit...
My needs are basic so can anyone tell me if it's worthwhile going 64 bit?
I hear that there may be problems getting the drivers for some programs - are there any other drawbacks? Or, indeed, advantages.
Many thanks.

 

[12eason]

Key considerations are;

How much memory do you have? Less than 3GB and x64bit will leave you wanting more.
Do you know all of your hardware has x64 drivers? You can't run 32bit drivers on x64. Although, 32bit programs tend to be fine.
Do you have a decent hard-disk? x64 will increase the work it has to do by a noticeable amount.

 

[pooksahib]

Thanks, 12eason. Given what you say, I'll stick to x32. Or x86 whatever the proper name is...
My 1G of memory has served me fine up to now.

 

[12eason]

Yeah, 1GB would be the equivilant of running x86 on 512MB. I don't think windows setup will even allow you to install on that.

 

[swarfega]

Minimum requirement for 64-bit is 2gb ram.

 

[Brink]

Hello Pooksahib,

This is an interesting read that can help answer some of your questions with some more detail. However, with 1 GB of RAM, you are probably best to stick with 32-bit for now.

64-bit: More than just the RAM - Vista Forums

Hope this helps,
Shawn

 

[jimbo45]

Hi there
x-64 installed fine on a 1GB system - Old Philips X59 laptop with Early dual CPU (but not with Intel VT feature). This laptop can't run Virtual PC but who would want to run a VM on a laptop with only 1GB RAM.

If your system is 64 bit I'd automatically go for x-64. You can always add another 1GB (or more RAM) later without having to re-install the OS.

Cheers
jimbo

 

[pooksahib]

My thanks to you all. I'll stick with 32 for now. As I said before, my needs are basic. I'm not a gamer nor do I use any complicated programs so x64 probably won't have any real benefits for me.
Cheers.

 

[pooksahib]

What the hell, change of plan... I'm about to by extra memory and one of those 'memory checker' sites tells me that the memory slots can hold DDR2 PC2-6400, PC2-8500 or PC2-5300. What's the difference between 6400, 8500 and 5300? And which should I go for? If it helps, the type I need is 533Mhz RAM (which possibly means I want the PC2-5300???).

Many thanks

 

[Brink]

The PC2-8500 (DDR2 1066Mhz) is the fastest one out of the three you have listed. I would get it instead.

PC2-6400 (DDR2 800Mhz)
PC2-5300 (DDR2 667Mhz)

 

[12eason]

The PC2-8500 (DDR2 1066Mhz) is the fastest one out of the three you have listed. I would get it instead.

It's pretty expensive though, isn't it? PC2-6400 is a lot cheaper per GB.

one of those 'memory checker' sites tells me

Hmm, which site is that if you don't mind me asking? Does it tell you your current configuration and how many slots you have free? It's also important to know your chipset's limitations, some will only allow 1GB per bank.

If the site doesn't tell you, try everest or sandra.

 

[Brink]

Agreed 12eason, the PC2-8500 will be close to double the cost of the PC2-6400, but you can still get a (2x 1 GB) PC2-8500 for around $40 and (2 x 2 GB) for around $75. I suppose it just depends on if you want one just a bit faster then then PC2-6400.

 

[latet]

Do you have a decent hard-disk? x64 will increase the work it has to do by a noticeable amount.

Why exactly?

Thanks,

latet

 

[Brink]

Hello Late,

You can read more details on the differences and benefits for 32-bit vs 64-bit at this link.

64-bit: More than just the RAM - Vista Forums

Hope this helps,
Shawn

 

[pooksahib]

Hmm, which site is that if you don't mind me asking?

Hi 12eason. It was crucial.com and it tells me I have 2 slots that can take 4GB in total. Am I right in thinking that 4GB of ANY rating is gonna be better than the 1GB I currently have?

 

[Brink]

Pooksahib,

Yes, 4GB of any speed will let you see a big difference than with the 1GB you currently have.

You can compare the prices on the (2x2GB) RAM kits between the PC2-8500 and PC2-6400 kits to see if after any rebates or sales if it may not be much more to get the PC2-8500 or not.