[tomthedrummer1992]

Hi guys,

I know the basics like works with x64 processors, and x64 drivers are needed - but why are x64 drivers and programs needed? I swear I read on wikipedia that x64 versions have a sort of emulator in them to emulate x86 (32 bit) systems, so surely x64 programs and drivers aren't needed? you can just use x86?

Thanks for taking the time to explain!

[Dave Hybrid]

Err, 64bit drivers are written to unlock 64bit features.

If you were to use 32bit drivers they would be missing 64bit instructions.

[tomthedrummer1992]

Ahhh ok.

But what if there is a piece of hardware that doesn't have x64 drivers? For example, DVD drive or Wireless PCI card?

Also do I need special x64 games, programs etc.?

Basically I am sussing whether to go x86 Vista Ultimate of x64 Vista Ultimate.

[Dave Hybrid]

Everything needs a driver, if you can't get a 64bit driver the hardware won't work.

64bit OS's need 64bit drivers but will happily run 32bit games/software.

[tomthedrummer1992]

So should I install the 64 bit os, then download the drivers from the manufactures website and install them?

[Dave Hybrid]

I'd make sure 64bit drivers are available for your hardware first.

Then yes, you will need to install the OS prior to installing drivers.

[thingie2]

If you get the retail version, it comes with 32 bit and 64 bit in the package. So if you find it doesn't work with 64 bit, you could always re-install as 32 bit

[tomthedrummer1992]

Indeed that is correct - but I was going to get the OEM version due to the price difference and I can stick my new hard drive order in at the same time!

[Dave Hybrid]

Personally I'd go 32bit, it's better supported and 64bit isn't really being used by software and game makers ATM.

[thingie2]

but is the abbility to have more RAM worth having 64 bit? Or you could have duel boot with the retail, have 64 bit for games (to utilise more RAM) and 32 bit for everything else.