x64 OS question

[Ciden]

I've been doing a little bit of searching to find this answer but I must be looking in the wrong places, so I bring the question here.

If I were to use the Windows x64 version, would my computer still be capable to run 32 bit programs? Or are they not functionable on this OS version?

Thanks in advance

 

[kiIIxthexIights]

Im pretty sure you can still run 32 bit programs i read it somwhere.

 

[xtknight]

Yes, x64 has a fairly good 32-bit emulation layer on it. It can still run 32-bit apps quite well. I've run Battlefield 2 on it even.

 

[gbrux]

I've read that about 90% of 32bit software runs on Win x64.

From my personal experience, all the 32bit software has run very well on Win x64. I have a dual boot WinXP (Windows Media Centerr 2005) and Win x64 setup, which means that the identical hardware configuration on both sides.

For instance, I've run Far Cry, HalfLife2, Call of Duty, and Doom2 on Win x64, and all run as good as or better on the Win x64 side as on the Win XP side.

 

[ProviaFan]

The times that a 32 bit application will not work under "emulation" (which seems like a misnomer because you rarely lose any speed, and when you do, the loss is miniscule) are if it has legacy 16 bit code (which is not supported in XP64), or if it requires some form of low-level access, perhaps in the form of a driver.

 

[imported_synchro]

I don't believe there is any emulation.
The CPU is capable of both 32 and 64 bit instruction sets, and the OS is comprised of 32 and 64 bit components. The CPU simply switches between modes when running the appropriate 32 or 64 bit code.

I have found only one or two programs that have issues with x64 edition Win XP.
Where I had issues was finding drivers for printers and scanners.

Double check all of your peripherals before making the jump - otherwise, the OS is fast and stable. No complaints here.

 

[ProviaFan]

WOW64 is the technology that Windows XP x64 uses to run 32 bit programs. While it is not emulation in the sense of translating CPU instructions, it is still a layer that 32 bit applications have to run on that 64 bit apps don't require. If it isn't emulation, then please tell me what it is.