What kind of parts will I need for building a computer?

Question

So after reading a few yahoo answers, I found that 32bit software will work with 64 hardware.  What I want to do, is build a comp compatible for 64 bit, but have 32 bit software and os.  I read that if you have 64 bit, u can still run 32 bit software.  If thats the case, then why do some programs not run?  Also, what are they talking about when they say 64 bit? the processor or the board?

I know the motherboard has to be 64 bit compatible, which is how most boards with dual core come.  But is there anything else?  Are there 64 bit graphics cards?  ethernet?  hard drive? cd/dvd rom drives? memory?  Would the memory differ because 32bit can only go up to 4 gb, whereas 64 bit can theoretically go higher?

Basically, I want to build everything for 32 bit, but be able to just upgrade software to 64 bit when that time comes, because my computer will already be compatible 64 bit compatible.

Shaf · Accepted Answer

Back when 64 bit computers only did 64 bit stuff, everything needed to be 64 bit, including any expansion cards, and RAM. Now that Intel and AMD have processors that do both 32 and 64 bit, this requirement has somewhat disappeared. If you buy an Athlon 64 or Core 2 Duo processor, you can get away with having 32 bit expansion cards, like soundcards and graphics cards, without having any adverse effects on the overall performance of the computer. I believe that both nVidia and ATi offer 64 bit drivers for their graphics cards.

I believe that most 32 bit programs will still run on a 64 bit system, it's the hardware drivers you need to worry about (graphics card, sound card, ethernet port, etc.)

If you're building a computer that will grow up to be a 64 bit system, RAM is a consideration, since Vista is about to read up to just under 4GB in 32, and a LOT more in 64, you'll want a motherboard that has more than 4 RAM slots, so you can upgrade later on if you want.

The motherboard isn't too important, so long as it can take a Core 2 Duo or Athlon 64 processor, you'll be ok concerning the 32/64 crossover issue.

Hope that helps!

buddhablue · Answer

computer parts!

i tried making one once with pieces of an old dishwasher, and while my data stayed clean and sparkly, it wasn't very good for real calculations!

good luck!

um... niner? · Answer

just get a new computer ya duh duh dur !!!!!! itll cost ya more cuz the computer you build will have to have the geek squad come every half an hour!!!! come on be realisti!!!

What kind of parts will I need for building a computer?

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