32- to 64-bit op system

[MoneyGuy]

I have a 32-bit operating system (operating Vista) and need to upgrade this to 64-bit to operate some software. Can a computer idiot like me do this or do I have to bring someone in? I'm quite willing to do the latter if necessary but need to check on this. How is this done? What does it mean? Thanks to anyone who can help. I suspect I'll need to bring someone in for this.

[OBCT]

Originally Posted by MoneyGuy

I have a 32-bit operating system (operating Vista) and need to upgrade this to 64-bit to operate some software. Can a computer idiot like me do this or do I have to bring someone in? I'm quite willing to do the latter if necessary but need to check on this. How is this done? What does it mean? Thanks to anyone who can help. I suspect I'll need to bring someone in for this.

hmm... I don't *think* it is all that difficult, in theory. As long as your hardware is 64-bit compatible (which it will be if it is a new system), then as far as I know it is as simple as purchasing the correct operating system for your needs and doing the "expansion install" (so to speak). Actually, I think there is a specific Vista 64-bit "upgrade version" for people who want to upgrade from Vista 32-bit to Vista 64-bit -- I could be wrong on that though.

I'm sure someone else will give you more exacting advice.

[HOOT]

I am curious what the difference is?

I have 32 on the Laptop and 64 on my PC...

[OBCT]

Originally Posted by HOOT

I am curious what the difference is?

I have 32 on the Laptop and 64 on my PC...

Essentially a 64-bit Operating System is a software response to the new-ish architecture that has been utilized in CPU chips in the last 5 or so years. Before those 64-bit processor chips, a 32-bit OS was all that was needed to take advantage of the hardware capabilities of the 32-bit processors of the day.

This article may or may not clear things up for you further.

[Bobblehead]

It is a reformat, whole new install of your operating system.

Generally speaking, what it does is allow your computer to access more memory. It is a whole new operating system because you are talking orders of magnitudes different sizes of numbers.

So it isn't really just running an upgrade. It is a big deal, and some computers you can't even do it. If it is a newer computer you should be alright. You will need your computer's manual to know for sure.

[MoneyGuy]

It's a Dell computer about one year old. I don't know if that's new enough to be 64-bit compatible. Does anyone know how long it should take to do this and what the cost might be if I hire a techie to do this for me?

[Rathji]

It should be the same as installing a new copy of Vista. If you can do it without backing up stuff then ~1 hour high end and about as hard as putting the disk in and reading. If you are unsure I am sure there is an online manual you could download and read /print before you attempt it (hint: don't wait till after you start to do this unless you have a second comp).

I have never done it though, so I may be making assumtions that are not true.

[Bobblehead]

No idea on the cost to hire someone.

You could just install the OS over top of the old one, but then you are going to need to re-install all your apps anyways.

You will need to look up you specific type of Dell computer to be able to tell if you can upgrade. You probably can; I would guess the odds at 75%. but a 64 bit OS requires a motherboard and a CPU that can run it.

And be aware, there are some peripherals that don't work on a 64 bit OS. Most things will have 64bit drivers, but be especially sure to check your printer maker to see if there are 64 bit drivers.

[I-Hate-Hulse]

What on earth are you running that needs 64-bit o/s?

I went from Vista 32 to 64 but I've had the Ultimate Edition from the get go. You'll have to pay a fee to upgrade unless you had Ultimate, which I'm guessing you don't.

That said, 64-bit has been great. Machine is loaded with RAM and drivers haven't been a problem.

[llama64]

Best way to switch is to back up all your data (documents, movies, pictures, etc) and then do a full disk wipe. Install a fresh copy of Vista x64 rather then trying to put it on top of the older one.

Just be sure you have a 64bit processor (AMD64 or Intel's Core2Duo's are all 64bit). Thankfully, Vista64 proved popular enough to force most of the hardware manufacturers to produce 64bit drivers.

Now if only Firefox could release a 64 bit version, I'd be happy...

[MoneyGuy]

Originally Posted by I-Hate-Hulse

What on earth are you running that needs 64-bit o/s?

It's a program called Dataphile. Slava will know what this is. It's a program that tracks my clients' portfolio holdings and all manner of client information. This sounds too complex for me so I'll bring someone in to do it. No big deal.

[HOOT]

Maybe some CPers will help you for cash

Dont' look at me though I would be getting someone in just like you!

[Traditional_Ale]

I'll install it for you. PM me.

[MoneyGuy]

Originally Posted by Traditional_Ale

I'll install it for you. PM me.

Thanks, but doesn't this require a get-together? I'm in the Edmonton area. Nice offer, but doesn't sound realistic. Besides I'm an Oiler fan and we may come to blows.

[Traditional_Ale]

Originally Posted by MoneyGuy

Thanks, but doesn't this require a get-together? I'm in the Edmonton area. Nice offer, but doesn't sound realistic. Besides I'm an Oiler fan and we may come to blows.

I'm more worried about you going to throw down and then hugging me.

[MoneyGuy]

Well, enough of that.

[Rathji]

[Vulcan]

I've heard that you can't play Adobe Flash on 64 bit, is that true?

[BlackArcher101]

Originally Posted by Vulcan

I've heard that you can't play Adobe Flash on 64 bit, is that true?

False

[Vulcan]

Originally Posted by BlackArcher101

False

Thanks