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Does 64bit machines (Dual Processors) need a 64bit Vista?
  1. 07 Nov 2008 #1


    rockrus

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    Does 64bit machines (Dual Processors) need a 64bit Vista?

    Hello everyone,

    I don't know if this was asked before, please forgive me if this is just a repeat. I am new in the forum.

    Does 64bit machines (Dual Processors or Quad etc) need a 64bit Vista to maximize its capabilities? I noticed that new PCs and Laptops shipped today have pre-installed Vista but 32bit OS . . . why is this? Or does it really matter? Please explain this puzzling mystery to a non-techie like me.

    Thanks guys.



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  2. 07 Nov 2008 #2
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    Brink

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    Re: Does 64bit machines (Dual Processors) need a 64bit Vista?

    Hello Rockrus, and welcome to Vista Forums.

    Yes, you get the most out of your 64 bit machine by using a 64 bit OS with it. It will not hurt anything to use a 32 bit OS though.

    This article may be an interesting read for you to help explain all of the differences between 32 bit and 64 bit.

    Hope this helps,
    Shawn

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  3. 07 Nov 2008 #3


    SCSIraidGURU

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    Re: Does 64bit machines (Dual Processors) need a 64bit Vista?

    Having more cores in Vista helps programs work better. Some like Adobe Photoshop CS2, CS3, CS4 can use 4 cores for processing. Some games like Far Cry can use 2 cores.

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  4. 07 Nov 2008 #4


    rockrus

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    Re: Does 64bit machines (Dual Processors) need a 64bit Vista?

    Thanks guys for your responses.

    So if you put a 32bit Vista on a 64bit Dual Core; some of the processing units are not utilized since the OS is just 32bit? Are you "short changing" the real capacity and design of the machine? A crude example is having an 8 cylinder car and just using 4 cylinders while driving.

    What can you say about PC/Laptop manufacturers putting preinstalled 32bit Vista in a 64bit machines? Why don't they just put 64bit OSes?

    Thanks again.

    Last edited by rockrus; 07 Nov 2008 at 07:53 PM. Reason: adding an example
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  5. 07 Nov 2008 #5
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    Re: Does 64bit machines (Dual Processors) need a 64bit Vista?

    You're welcome Rockus.

    That is a good question on why they do not just have the 64 bit Vista installed.

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