[CS-FSLUG] 64 bit OS?

[Tim Young]

The pros are that some math operators run faster, you can have more 
memory in the box, and there are some things (CPU operators) that you 
can do which 32-bit processors cannot.  The Cons are that the driver 
support is not all there for 64-bit.  (This info pertains to both 
Windows and Linux OSes.)

32-bit executables will run in a 64-bit world, so most programs will be 
fine.  But the main issue is with drivers (kernel modules).  While Linux 
has been compiled for 64-bit architecture, the main test-base has been 
in the 32-bit world.  This means that there are not as many debuggers 
for 64-bit operations, and therefore, there are more undiscovered bugs 
in the 64-bit drivers.  Also, not all the drivers have been ported to 
the 64-bit architecture; it may take a lot of work to port a driver over 
to a new architecture.  The main area where the drivers have been 
hammered out are the ones for large servers, as that is where the main 
benefit is for the 64-bit OS.  In short, 64-bit operating-systems are 
usually much more iffy for a personal box than if you were installing it 
on a server-box. 

For a personal box, you usually do not notice much of a difference in 
using a 64-bit OS, except for noticing broken things (wireless devices, 
USB, TV-Tuner, video, and other "home-use" drivers are the ones heaviest 
hit.)

    - Tim Young

Jason P. Franklin wrote:
> What are the pros and cons of running a 64 bit OS?  The ubuntu install 
> pages say I can run the 64bit version on my Core Duo MacBook.  Just 
> wondering if this is a good idea?
>
>
>
> Jason P. Franklin
> Christian/Husband/Father/Missionary
> Westwood Bible Fellowship
> www.westwoodbf.com
> pastor.jason at westwoodbf.com
>
>
>
>
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