I bought my PC last year in november, an XPS 400 Pentium D. I am not sure but i think my PC is a 32bit because my pc reads x86 processor, i read a while ago that it was gonna change to something else. So ummm how do I go about upgrading to a 64 bit processor. Sounds like i'm gonna need new hardware. Are my suspicions correct ? how much for this upgrade?
Though this thread belongs in the Other PC Hardware forum, I'll go ahead with a few quick answers! You'll need a 64bit compatible motherboard, and a 64bit CPU. Dell systems are proprietary, so your best bet if you wish to continue using Dell parts would be to contact a rep from the company...otherwise you're free to hit up sites like NewEgg and have a look around at what you'll be needing. Keep in mind as well, that some OEMs like Dell use proprietary power supplies as well, not all comps come with them...but it's best for you to find out before you plug in a retail motherboard and fry it. Basically what that means is, that the pin plug may fit in the retail board, but the wiring and specs may be different. I'd give Dell a call first. Unless you plan on starting over, and will be using a different case and power supply. Edit: At this time, Windows XP x64 isn't the greatest of all operating systems and even though driver support is coming along, it's not all there yet...if you plan on trying out x64, you may want to set the system up as a dual boot.
Yah, i spoke to a dell rep, and she told me that I should buy a new operation system (like Vista, when it comes out)...also on System Setup, my pc shows that I have 64bit technology. So i think she might be right. I mean i'm skeptic..cause her name sounded like she was from one of those India call centers (and they're a bit iffy, if you know what I mean). But if she's right...this would make this a software question, not a hardware question.
What exact Pentium D model do you have? The Dell site has a few options...and the only operating systems they have for that machine is XP Pro and Media Center. Both 32bit. If that mobo supports the 64bit Intel CPUs, then it's most likely that will be all you have to upgrade before choosing your 64bit OS.
