Topic 64-Bit Operating Systems

Riddar

Well, I got around to buying a TV Tuner (Pinnacle PCTV Stick), but found that it was completely incompatible with my two 64-bit operating systems. I got 64-bit systems thinking that it will become widely adopted over the next few years anyway as RAM intensive applications grow and prices drop. What really bugs me is that it listed simply Windows XP under the requirements, not the 32-bit version alone... damn companies stuck in the past...

So anyone else here running 64-bit, or planning to? Run into any problems like this?

impilcature

In all honesty i don't know what the differences are. is there a large difference? if not could you do a laymens explanation?

Riddar

32-bit operating systems have a 32-bit list of addresses, meaning they can access in theory up to 4Gb of memory. When video memory, I/O assignments, and other overhead I don't have memorized are removed from that total limit, it means a 32-bit operating system is incapable of using more than 2.5 to 3 Gb of RAM. As a way of futureproofing my system for the next few years, I opted for a 64-bit system, allowing my 4 gigs of future RAM in its theoretical limit of... 16 exobytes? Some ridiculously high number. 64-bit is definitely the future, but the transition from 32 to 64-bit is a pain, as it seems. They are not strictly interoperable, the programs.

impilcature

Thanks for the info. It seems like that would be the standard now days. Have you found any bugs or anything that would make it difficult for someone just to pick up and use? I haven't really researched or heard of it but it sounds like something only someone running really intensive software would use. What do you run on it or do you plan to run on it if you don't mind my asking?

Riddar

The only downside is that 64-bit programs don't work on 32-bit OSs, and 64-bit OSs don't work on very old (32-bit) processors. Now, most people buy 32-bit OSs because they don't understand the difference, and 32-bit is default because 32-bit OSs work on ALL processors. So, with the majority of the market currently on 32-bit systems, companies program 32-bit programs with only basic support for the rest of us for now.

Now for the reason I went 64-bit: I just built the computer, and intend for it to last 4-5 years, realistically. Many games are starting to push the limits of RAM; Supreme Commander uses over the 2GB limit when available with a small tweak to allow it to. I believe that within 2-4 years, 4GB of RAM will be the new standard high end level for games and RAM intensive programs. I just timed it poorly for other more average programs, I guess...

mmarsh

Ridder

Actually all my OS are 64 bit. I run VISTA Ultimate 64 and Linux Ubuntu AMD 64.

The major problem with 64bit isn't so much software compatibility (although this sometimes occurs too) but the fact that drivers must be specifically written for 64.

This is improving, with the advent of VISTA 64 manufactuers are beginning to devolop more for the 64 bit architecture.

I am afraid you'll just have to wait until pinnicle gets 64 bit drivers made

Riddar

I guess...

Well, faith in free market. I just researched and am buying a Hauppauge model tuner stick. Pinnacle not only loses a sale, but loses money on a returned item which gets sent back to manufacturer due to mislabeled packaging. Every little bit, perhaps.