ABT Builder’s Guide: September-October 2008

OPERATING SYSTEMS

It is now official that Microsoft will stop selling Windows XP.  Therefore, by a process of natural progression, we will have to move to Windows Vista whether we like it or not.  On the other hand, instead of purchasing a new operating system (OS), we could always just use Linux, which is free.

Anyway, for those of you who aren’t intrigued by Linux and its various distributions, or those who are used to a Microsoft OS and wish to maintain that familiarity, then Vista is an easy choice.

There are two main versions of Windows Vista. The 32-bit (x86) version and the 64-bit (x64) version.  Here is a quick pros/cons review.
•    The x86 version is compatible with all 32-bit Windows software while the x64 version is compatible with all 32-bit and obviously all 64-bit software. The x86 cannot run 64-bit applications.
•    The x86 version has been proven to run well and is a benchmark upon which the x64 version is judged.  Vista x64 runs just as well in 32-bit applications but really shines in a 64-bit software environment.  That comparison has been made based on software that has both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
•    While 32-bit Windows has widespread driver support, 64-bit Windows still has a few problems with certain hardware.  However, things have gotten a lot better since Service Pack 1 (SP1).
•    32-bit Windows has memory addressing limitations and as such will only recognize a maximum of about 3.25GB – 3.5GB of RAM.  64-bit Windows, on the other hand, can take advantage of up to 128GB of RAM (when we eventually get there). With this in mind, the x64 version will be able to fully utilize all your 4GB of RAM should you choose to get that.

Honourable Mentions:
OEM – Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium 64-bit
OEM – Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate 64-bit
Retail – Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium
Retail – Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate

Note:
During the installation of a retail copy of Microsoft Windows Vista, it allows you to choose whether you wish to install the 32-bit or 64-bit version.