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General discussion

Can my computer run 64-bit Vista?

May 12, 2008 2:46PM PDT

My computer has the 32-bit version of Vista, and I was thinking of upgrading to 64, but I'm not sure if it will work. The Microsoft page on the subject said to check the system variables which do say x86, not x64. However, I have the Intel E8500 processor, which is supposed to be 64-bit. So would the 64-bit version of Vista work or not?

Discussion is locked

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Driver issues
May 12, 2008 9:28PM PDT

Hey there, Your biggest issue is not the processor. Many PC's are built with 64 bit processors but the thing you really need to look at are the components. A lot of components (video card, sound card, etc.) do not have 64 bit drivers readily available. You can try to find someone to write one for you or decorate one for 64bit but you are looking at the possibility of frequest crashes. If you do have 64 bit drivers for ALL of your hardware components then you should be fine. The hardware manufacturers just don't see a large enough market to produce x64 drivers for all of their hardware. Hope this is useful guidance.

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How can I tell? RE: "Driver Issues"
Jul 17, 2010 11:32PM PDT

How can I tell if there is compatible drivers for my hardware?

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At this point you can't but you could
Jul 17, 2010 11:49PM PDT

Post the make, model of the machine and hope a member will look into it for you.

Frankly I found Vista 64 to be worse off than Vista 32 bit. This is sad since Windows 7 64 bit outshines Windows 7 32 bit.

Why is that sad? Folk may select Windows 7 32 bit and miss out on a great experience.
Bob

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yes, you can run 64bit vista
May 13, 2008 1:42AM PDT

64bit driver support has greatly improved but it still lacking for some peripherals. since you have an e8500 cpu, your hardware is very recent and you'll immediately find drivers for your motherboard, built-in sound, and graphics from either microsoft or your PC manufacturer.

drivers for scanners, older printers, and specialty components may be an issue however.