64-bit: More than just the RAM

It's not all beer and skittles

Aside from driver support, 64-bit computing is pretty much a step forward in nearly every way. However, you can't expect all that improvement for nothing - there are some further costs on the hardware side.

First of all, for 64-bit computers, more memory isn't just a perk, it's a little more of a necessity. Each instruction code, memory address, etc. will take up more room in your RAM and cache due to the increased length of pointers, protected space, etc. Where a 32-bit OS may be able to execute a program in 100MB, you can find that the size of a 64-bit OS running the same program can take 105-110MB. Often times this isn't the case, but it is an important consideration.

Also, due to the lack of current commercial penetration of 64-bit operating systems and computers, most software is not making use of it just yet. However, as the old 32-bit computers begin to phase out and become generally obsolete, more software writers will begin to take advantage of the new systems.

Conclusion

Whether you came into this article with some of your own thoughts on the matter or with little knowledge on the subject at all, I hope that you've learned some new things about 64-bit computing. Though it is still relatively "young" (despite its age) in the commercial sector, it's been the chosen evolution for the industry for some time. Modern processors, chipsets and now finally operating systems have started to make the move, and as the technology filters down into the "average home," the software will follow.

Until that time, those who use 64-bit systems can enjoy the perks - slightly sped-up processes on double-executed 32 bit code, a full 4GB of RAM, protected execution, more stable and accurate code due to the increased data size and enhanced overall system efficiency due to relative pointers just to name a few. And for the software that has already come to pass with the likes of Adobe Photoshop, Maya, Vue Infinite, some CAD programs and quite a few games, you'll have plenty of toys that get a little boost right now.

With that being said, it's still not quite a perfect system - the steeper hardware requirements in processing power and memory versus the lack of current software leave it more to "If you have it, you should use it" rather than "I need this now!" But whether you are intrigued enough to take the plunge into Vista, a new 'nix build or stick with your good old Windows XP, one thing is for certain - 64-bit is here to stay, it's going to grow, and it's more than just the RAM.

Thanks for reading!