64 Bit Vs 32 Bit - What’s The Difference? When Will It Happen?
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I received a reader’s comment today asking what the difference was between a 64 bit and 32 bit processor and how it will affect computing? In its simplest form, the basic difference between 32 bit and 64 bit is the way that memory is handled. Back in the day when 32 bit was chosen as the standard, it was assumed that 4G of memory would be sufficient for future use. As we are fast approaching the 4G memory limit, 16G of memory may be in our future. Thus the 64 bit processor can handle this load.
Now here is the 64 thousand dollar question: Should you buy a 64 bit processor today for future use? It depends. If you are planning on using more than 4G of memory you may wish to consider the purchase of a 64 bit processor. Just remember that the operating system you choose must have 64 bit capabilities. Most of today’s do, so that shouldn’t be a major problem.
What is a major problem is finding 64 bit drivers for some hardware. Before even taking the plunge, make sure your hardware is supported.
Another thought is that Intel core 2 duo chips do support the 64 bit function. Also AMD offers their 64 bit version as well. So it does appear that some day, some time, some where 64 bit processing may become the standard. When that may happen is anyone’s guess.
Any thoughts? Is 64 bit ready for prime time? Your comments as always are welcome.
[tags]intel, amd, 32, 64, bit, processors, memory[/tags]
8 Comments
marc klink
May 1st, 2007
at 9:02am
How many people really need 4G of memory? I would suspect not many, but as to purchasing a 64 bit capable processor, that is a nonissue for the most part, ’cause they all support it. But I doubt that more than 10 out of 100 computers will ever see a database big enough to tax that limit.
BTW, did you see the announcement that Ubuntu WILL be the Linux for Dell computers? I suspect this will hasten 64 bit drivers for lots of things not otherwise covered in Linux.
One thing I predict that we will see with the use of so much memory is the use of RAM disks, just like back in the days of the 286!
Ron Schenone
May 1st, 2007
at 11:18am
Hi Marc,
I did see that it looks like Dell will be using Ubuntu. I just put that in my short takes for Sunday.
Thanks, Ron
The Blade by Ron Schenone, MVP
May 1st, 2007
at 11:53am
Hej. I dag har jag gått hem!
Mairaj
May 1st, 2007
at 5:37pm
Wow 16 gigs of memory. The most RAM i’ve heard of on any computer was 8 gigs. (its price wasnt a picnic either) Another quick question Ron. So if you’re 64 bit processor is only using 32 bits is it also not using its full potential? What i mean to say is that if you go from 32 to 64 will you see a huge difference between in computing capabilites as well as maximum RAM?
Thanks
Mairaj
(btw im that one that left that comment that started this thread WOOT lol.)
Ron Schenone
May 1st, 2007
at 7:19pm
Hi Mairja,
I would expect that to be the case, since information should be handled faster. Once the software catches up that is.
Later, Ron
Scott S
May 8th, 2007
at 1:20pm
Exchange 2007 requires 64-bit Server 2003. So, since Microsoft rules the world, 64-bit is NOW the standard - at least in some settings.
Ron Schenone
May 8th, 2007
at 2:40pm
Hi Scott,
Thanks for the information.
Ron
rasmasyean
July 8th, 2008
at 2:28am
Vista uses extra RAM to store commonly used files in a new activity known as “disk caching”. The computer uses artificial intelligence to determine which files will be used most and copies it to RAM (where it is much faster than accessing your hard disk). This includes components of the programs you use on a regular basis. When you need more RAM for programs you launch, etc. the computer purges the “least likely used” files from RAM to make room for the new program. That’s why if you look at the performance monitor, Vista always has near zero “free” RAM. So in theory, the more RAM (for disk cache) you have, the faster your computer will operate. This can also be augmented (to a lesser effect) with a flash drive/card with a technology called ReadyBoost. Just stick it in and select “Speed up my system” and leave it there.
http://www.anandtech.com/systems/showdoc.aspx?i=2917&p=6
As you launch more and more newer Aps (and don’t shut down maybe and use the S3 sleep even), this will make a difference.