64-bit or 32-bit Windows XP: Should you upgrade?

What’s the difference?

The main difference between a 32-bit and 64-bit operating system is the maximum amount of memory that the system can support. With more memory you can run more programs at the same time, and you can run more memory-intensive programs, for examples Finite Element Analysis and realistic photo rendering. Furthermore, when running a 64-bit application under a 64-bit operating system you can usually expect an increase in performance due simply to the programming differences.

Advantages

In general, moving to a 64-bit operating system has two compelling advantages. First is the ability to break through the 4GB RAM limit of a 32-bit operating system. Currently, 32-bit operating systems are only capable of supporting up to 4GB of RAM under normal circumstances. However, more than 4GB RAM is necessary in some cases, such as when running very large assemblies. Further, application performance boosts can be realized when 64-bit programs are run on a 64-bit operating system. Pro/ENGINEER, for example has shown increases in performance of around 13% on OCUS benchmark tests when running it on a 64-bit system as opposed to a 32-bit system.

Disadvantages

A 64-bit operating system can be very useful and sometimes is necessary yet implementing a 64-bit system for the first time is typically not a simple turn-key solution. In order to experience the least problematic implementation, one would be advised to put in a substantial investment of time in researching programs and hardware beforehand. Complexities can come from the fact that many devices still do not include 64-bit drivers out of the box, especially for Windows XP Professional x64 Edition. Often, updated software or device drivers for these products can be found online from the manufactures, but there are many devices out there that will never be supported due to their age. There are also instances when a software developer does not release a 64-bit version of their program, while most programs will run in 32-bit mode under a 64-bit operating system, it’s not always the case.

Addressing the issues

Some software companies are going back and updating their programs to be compatible with 64-bit operating systems. This means that the compatibility issues that one may currently be experiencing will continue to diminish and performance should continue to increase. Similarly, newer hardware, plotters and printers are being supported right away. However, older hardware may never be compatible with a 64-bit system as most hardware companies will not create drivers for their older or discontinued products.

Situations that may indicate the need to upgrade:
1. If you need to access more than 4GB RAM
2. Existing 32-bit systems that cannot handle large assemblies
3. The need to reduce the time to compile a tool path or Finite Element Analyses

Conclusion

While the driver issues can be a problem, any engineering firm that has a dedicated IT department should be able to easily implement 64-bit systems and reap the benefits. Smaller firms that outsource their IT services or those which have its own engineers perform IT support need to be aware of the issues that can come up. It helps to do a substantial amount of research beforehand in order to avoid spending a lot of time fixing problems later on. It also helps to have a good support team to assist you when difficulties do arrive.