Windows: 32 or 64 bit?

[RAF74_Stew]

S!

My computer is getting ready to bite the dust and I don't think I can hold off on upgrading much longer. I've had a NewEgg wish list going for awhile and feel pretty comfortable on that front (probably will need to rethink the vid card).

My question is whether to go 32 bit or 64 bit Windows Vista. They are now selling OEM packages with a free upgrade to Windows 7 so my fear about having to buy two software packages in 3 months is not an issue.

I remember reading in the SimHq forum that people were having getting IL-2 to run in 64 bit. However, is it accurate to say this is where software apps are going? Any word on SoW?

I plan on going with the I7 920 and fairly robust components.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

[RAF74_Bimmer]

I don't know what was being discussed on SimHQ, but I've been running on 64-bit Vista for over a year without problems.

[RAF74_Winger]

Salute Stew,

I specifically asked Oleg about an x86_64 executable for SOW; he didn't reply so you'll have to make your own judgement there.

So it really comes down to the addressable memory with both versions; 32bit can only really address ~3Mb without some cumbersome workarounds, whereas 64bit OS's can address much more than you could possibly want for the next few years (264Tb!).

One thing to be aware of is that the x86_64 processors aren't really sixty-four bit. They're 32bit with extra 64bit instructions available and able to use 64bit integers. So there shouldn't be any problems with running 32bit code, provided the compatibility libraries are OK.

Hope that helps. I know it's confusing, but there you go. I've been running x86_64 linux distros for many years now, with no problems worth speaking about.

W.

[RAF74_Winger]

Salute,

One more thing I forgot to mention: I remember running the Far Cry 64bit executable, back on XP64; the draw distances in that particular game were increased by a remarkable amount between the 32 and 64 versions.

W.

[RAF74_Buzzsaw]

Salute

You guys can assume 64 bit for BoB. I would go with it. IL-2 1946 runs fine with 64 bit with some tweaks from what I understand.

I would suggest you really max out your system unless you want to have to buy another one very soon. Because I think BoB is going to be VERY demanding.

Cheers Buzzsaw

[RAF74_Stew]

Thanks for the feedback, guys!

I am grateful that, with Jazz's help, I built a rig that lasted 5 years and would hope to do the same the next go around :)

Looks like the Windows question is solved- I'll go 64.

As I type this I'm on my laptop because I get nothing but a black screen on my main rig. No doubt its the video card so if I can't get this resolved I may be grounded from air ops for a bit...

Stew

[RAF74_Buzzsaw]

Salute Stew

If its just a video card you need, are you interested in buying one of mine?

I will sell you an ATI HD 4850 512mg which is still in the box for less than I paid for it, and I got it on special.

I realized I made a mistake after I bought it, and it was a special order, so no return. I need a connection at the back which will allow for S Video input for my video editing.

I have been meaning to sell it over Craig's List, but haven't gotten around to it, have been really busy with work and dealing my mother's estate.

The card would certainly tied you over till BoB. If you are interested, send me an e-mail.

[RAF74_Buzzsaw]

Salute Stew

Just occurred to me:

Card is PCI Express. I'll bet your computer motherboard will only have an AGP slot.

[RAF74_Winger]

Salute Stew,

I've got an AGP 7800GS lying around here somewhere doing nothing. PM me if you want it.

W.

[RAF74_Stew]

Just saw your follow up post and , yup, I'm AGP... But your idea is what I gravitated to today.

Bid on a couple of AGP cards on Ebay this afternoon. Looks like I can get one for 25-50 bucks. I normally put a lot of time and study into building a rig and just feel that if I rush into it I will not be as satisfied.

I am considering doing a fresh Windows install onto a new hd I have (believe it or not, I still am running off the original install). My OEM license will work as long as I don't change mobos. Between that and a new/used video card I might just keep this sucker running another few months.

[RAF74_Winger]

Salute Stew,

Here's (http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/motherboards/2009/07/13/first-look-asus-p7p55d-evo-motherboard/1) some more reading material for you.

W.