Win 7 64 bit

[Dr J]

Hello everyone,

I'm about to build a new computer and am debating whether or not to choose Win 7 32 or 64 bit? If I choose the 64 bit version, will all my old 32 bit programs be at a loss, or can the 64 bit version of Win 7 run them also?

If I choose Win 7, 64 bit, will I be able to run Microsoft Office 32 bit? If not, if I buy a new 64 bit version of Microsoft Office, will it read/write all of my 32 bit Microsoft office files?

And lastly, I plan initially to use an i3 530. As it's dual core, I assume that if I were to load Win XP, I'd lose the use of the dual core functionality?

Any and all information appreciated.

thanks,

John

 

[blinblue]

With a few exceptions, everything should run just fine on Windows 7 64bit (I don't think there even is a 64bit version of office). If you ever plan of having 4GB or more of RAM, go for 64bit.
The dual core should work just fine in XP or 7.

I would just go ahead and use Windows 7 64bit

 

[Gooberlx2]

Nowadays, for 99% of people, when major manufacturers are installing 64-bit as standard, I don't think there's any reason to even consider 32-bit, unless your hardware can't do it (which is not the case for you, OP).

XP can use dual cores just fine. It's more dependent on whether your applications are coded to take advantage of it.

 

[jhansman]

Keep in mind that a 64-bit OS give you access to more RAM should you increase it in your system, and apps like 64-bit Photoshop are optimized for such OSs and processors. PS CS4 just flies on my system. I have no issues with 32-bit apps, except some legacy apps that just ain't up to modern times.

 

[theprodigalrebel]

Been using Windows 7 x64 on my desktop for about two months now. Prior to that was using the x86 variant on a laptop. Haven't really encountered any applications that flat out refuse. Well, Grim Fandango comes to mind. No go in regular/compatibility mode, I installed it in Windows XP mode - which is a separate download -and I get the game to launch but with serious graphical anomalies. This is on a Radeon 5850, I tried it last with the 9.12 drivers.

I'd say just go for x64 and don't look back.

 

[Ancalagon44]

I've been using Vista 64 bit for 3 years, I now have Windows 7 64 bit at home and at work. Never had issues with any of them with any software. Even older games like Diablo II and Baldurs Gate II work fine.

The only problem you have is that you cant load any unsigned kernel mode drivers. I think some drivers can get away with being unsigned, like my creative x fi drivers seem to be unsigned (at least, Windows asks me if I'm sure I trust Creative every time I install them), but it was a hassle to get my xbox arcade stick working in Vista. So if you have any obscure or outdated hardware, you might struggle. Other than that, you should be fine.

 

[mvbighead]

As everyone else said, use Windows 7 x64 and don't look back. You could run Office 2000 on there if you really wanted to.

In truth, pretty much all apps are distinguished within the OS as 32 or 64 bit, and there are separate 'Program Files' directories for each (Program Files and Program Files x86). But 99% of software that is out there will run on 64. Chances are, if it ran on XP, it'll run on 64.

One thing to note though, is make sure your printers and scanners are supported, or that you are ready to get a new one if they don't. That'd be about the only devices that may or may not have quirks, due to manufacturers being unwilling to release new drivers for their older printers.

 

[GaryJohnson]

Windows 7 Compatibility Center <- this MS site has information on what software and hardware will and won't work with 7 32-bit or 7 64-bit. It doesn't have everything, but it has almost everything.

 

[Dr J]

Thank you all for your responses, much appreciated. I'll definitely check printer compatability, as this is important to me.

Last question, is it worth paying the extra for Ultimate, over Professional?

 

[Gooberlx2]

Last question, is it worth paying the extra for Ultimate, over Professional?

No, not unless you really need bitlocker protection.

 

[Muse]

Will I be able to continue to use my HP4M printer with
Windows 7 x64? How about Office 2007 Standard?

 

[Chiefcrowe]

Office, no problem.
as for the printer, not sure. generally if there is a vista driver it should be fine.

 

[Muse]

Office, no problem.
as for the printer, not sure. generally if there is a vista driver it should be fine.

Thanks. The odd thing is that my Vista machine doesn't succeed in printing from the postscript driver. I use the PCL driver instead. :\ I would expect support for this printer. It's old as the hills (well, >15 years), but it was an icon in the industry and there are many still around. It's a workhorse.

I'm more worried about some of my programs. But I guess the only way I'll find out is to take the plunge.