Vista - Upgrade to 64-bit Vista

OK, I've run the performance test on my Windows 32 bit system and it says my system is 64-bit capable. I have a Q6600 quad core processor. If it says that my system is 64-bit capable, is it safe to assume that ALL components attached directly to the mother board are compatible, or do I need to check each and every item on my device manager, system devices list? I'm running a Gateway Fx8020, 4gb ram (will upgrade to 8gb with 64-bit OS) and unfortunately, they're not much help in trying to upgrade the OS. All of my external peripherals are compatible, I just don't know about the system devices.

Thanks, JO

Your PC will be fine running 64 bit Vista, just get the 64 bit drivers for everything.

Should be able to get it all here Gateway Support Drivers & Downloads

But get the 64 bit drivers for your video card off the ATI website.

I know I need 64 bit drivers, but my question related directly to the stuff under "system devices" within device manager. there is quite a laundry list of stuff there and it would seem to me that if the mother board is 64 bit compatible, that the stuff directly on the mother board s/b as well. Such as those listed on the attached file. I have no problem with the other hardware, just these system devices.

Jo

What test and where did you get it?

Control Panel, Performance Information and Tools, view report and it shows if your system is 64 bit compatible.

Most of those are system drivers and get installed by Vista. For the others there is a good possibility that Vista already has drivers for them (the chipset (975X) is old enough it should). If you want updated or any that are missing Gateway does not have anything for Vista 64 but you can get them here,

Download Search Results

More info on JLDCFO's computer,

Gateway Support - 1009475*Gateway FX8020 Desktop Computer

I'm a newbie, and wondered what upgrading to 64-bit is for? Does it improve performance, speed, whatever?

Thanks

Great mine is too, you learn somthing everyday.

Upgrading to Vista 64 bit allows your computer to use more than 4 gb (3.25-3.5 in reality) of ram. For most users, the 4gb limit is not a problem, but I work with very large graphics files in Photoshop CS4 and I'm hitting the ceiling. Upgrading will lead to faster response times on my quad-core computer, which was DESIGNED for a 64 bit OS, but crippled with a 32-bit initially.

if your running a shop bought pc , ie Dell then i would check before you upgrade they always use custom built motherboards and if they dont have any 64 bit drivers for your chipset etc you wont get them anywhere else

if its a custom build on the other hand just go for it , you'll be fine