64bit
Out of context: Reply #8
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- designbot0
Ok the quick and dirty explanation:
Yes you can use 32 bit programs under a 64-bit OS. When you say a "64-bit machine" you are technically speaking of the operating system itself. I have a dual-core 64-bit processor, but I run Vista Ultimate 32-bit version. The problem with going 64-bit (ie; Vista Ultimate 64-bit) is usually hardware drivers are more sparce and can be difficult to find. On top of the operating system needing to be 64-bit, the applications you run must also be written to take advantage of a 64-bit processor or you will see no difference in performance.
One plus is the amount of RAM your machine can access under a 64-bit Operating System is basically infinite...or so great as to be negligible at this point. A 32-bit version of Windows on the other hand can only handle a max of 4GB of memory, and typically even with 4GB installed you will only see a little over 3GB.
Right now, based on everything thing I have read, there is VERY little reason to move to a 64-bit version of Windows. There is very little in terms of overall performance you will gain, although as you stated, Adobe programs may run a bit faster. Mac runs 64-bit native, so you really wouldn't have a choice if you bought a new Mac.
Hope that helps.
- Sorry, to clarify a "64-bit machine" would be a combination of a 64-bit processor and 64-bit operating system.designbot