64 bit and Software

[dickieboy]

Some of my email friends wonder why I want to build a new system using components like AMD Athlon64 (3700+). They caution that older programs I may have -- as well as programs I may purchase today -- will not necessarily be supported or run on 64bit. Since I am a novice about hardware....I am anxious to know what the "knowledgeable ones" in this forum THINK about this

[Kov-Ice]

Systems like that are backwards compatible. The problem lies in the fact that not many programs are out right now that can really utilize the 64bit functionality. You are just building a fast system that will be able to run 64bit stuff as it becomes available.

[flanzig1]

64 bit CPUs work with 32 bit OS like XP and 32 bit apps. It's the other way where the problem is: there are few apps and drivers for the new 64 bit Windows OS Vista.

[dickieboy]

Thanks for taking the time to respond to my question. I appreciate it because it does increase my knowledge .... which is limited.

[dickieboy]

Thanks for answering my question. It is helpful to me as I am trying to increase my knowledge and not make too much of a mistake in purchasing the wrong components.