I think the time is now for 64 Bit Processors and yes, even the 64 bit operating system. I have been running Vista 64 bit operating system (OS) for several weeks in testing with very little notable difference with Vista 32 bit OS. I did just load SP1 (Service Pack 1) for the 64 bit Vista.
The truth is there is very little software that will use the full 64 bit addresses and other so called benefits of the wider data structure. That is because 64 bit addresses are not required for 95% of reasons most people use their PC. What I do see is that the 32 bit software runs just fine in Vista 64. We can wait for the new software.
My reason for saying, “now is the time” is not that anyone should go out and upgrade. For doing that, this is is NOT the time. But if the purchase of a new replacement computer is considered, make it at least a dual processor (they are all 64 bit) and install Vista 64. Maybe it is because I just like knowing all the millions of transistors are being used to their fullest extent.
I still and will run XP (32 bit) for my workshop computer. That is a dedicated task machine and the program I use on the computer will probably be years before it is re-designed for Vista. That is just not necessary for the job it was designed to do, run a CNC machine.
Microsoft bashers will be throwing rotten eggs at me but the truth is my testing is showing Vista 64 to be stable. The fact is that it runs 32 bit software just fine, and that is why I say and would personally make the move. After two years of Vista and production of new hardware within that time frame, the missing drivers problem is a thing of the past. Remember, I am not saying UPGRADE, just purchase new ad-ins with the proper drivers already provided.
So I think the bits length is no longer an issue. 32 bit processors are still being made and I think they will stay around for systems like I mentioned above that have a dedicated function. Personal Computers will be multi processor and 64 bit, I guarantee.
The multi-processor race is on. Definitely nothing less than two is the new standard. I have been using dual processors here at home for three years and my brand new laptop is a dual core. There is a wonderful noticeable increase in performance and ease of use with two processors. The shop computer I just built is dual processor and 64 bit. Buy nothing less, as there is no extra cost. It runs 32 bit XP just fine and can be upgraded if ever desired or required with just software.
More than two processors is marketing hype for now. I only know of two commercial programs that can use 3 or 4 (more?) processors. Like 64 bits, software has to be written to take advantage of multiple processors. Software that does, just isn’t common at this point in time.
The enthusiast that I am, I WOULD buy a quad processor. Two cores would probably fall unused, but we’ll get there eventually. Gamers can buy an Intel I7 CPU with four cores and Hyper-threading that will give them 8 processing threads. Nothing written that can use it yet but the game writers will be the first to take the advantage.