In 2005 Microsoft released a 64-bit version of its Windows XP operating system (see definition below). This was only available on high-end business computers that needed more computing power than the current 32-bit XP operating system. This didn't affect computers that most of us would buy. However, during the last year or so, more and more computers are being sold with Vista 64-bit operating systems - even those costing less than $500. WinSpeed©, like many 32-bit software programs, won't run on a 64-bit operating system. Unless you pay attention, you might buy a computer with a 64-bit operating system and not even know it!

I've done some research and experimenting on how to fix this problem but haven't yet found an easy solution. Hopefully it won't require a major rewrite of the WinSpeed© code, which would mean it will be a while before a 64-bit version of WinSpeed© is available.

If you are buying a new computer and plan to run WinSpeed© (or other older software), don't buy one with a 64-bit operating system. Most new computers now come with 64-bit processors (see definition below) which is OK, but make sure the operating system is not 64-bit. Sometimes an advertisement will say something like, "Vista Home Premium 64-bit" (the operating system) which means WinSpeed© won't work.

However, if you need more computing power, by all means get a computer with a 64-bit operating system. As an example, Windows Vista Home Premium (probably the most common operating system right now), can access up to 4 GB of RAM (memory) for the 32-bit version and up to 16 GB for the 64-bit version. And the business versions can access up to 128 GB! More memory means things run faster and you can do more tasks at the same time. Hint: If you see a computer advertising 4 GB or more RAM, it is probably a 64-bit version of the operating system.

See the WinSpeed© section of the AU website for the latest information on this or any other WinSpeed© issues. I'll keep you posted on our progress with a 64-bit WinSpeed© version. I'm hoping that by the time you read this we'll have found a solution!

Definitions:

Operating System: Software - the first thing you see when you turn on your computer. It runs everything else. Examples: Windows 95, Windows XP, Windows Vista. (XP and Vista come in 32 or 64-bit versions)

Processor: Hardware - where calculations and other instructions are carried out.

Examples: Intel Pentium, Intel Celeron, AMD Athlon 64 Dual Core.

Clear as mud?

Mike Tobin
AU NDB/WinSpeed© Program Manager

Information added after the article went to press

How do you know if you have a 32 or 64-bit operating system? Windows 95 up until Windows XP were all 32-bit operating systems. If you have an XP operating system, it is most certainly 32-bit. You would know if it was 64-bit.

For Vista though, you may not know if you have a 32 or 64-bit operating system. These instructions are only for Vista:

Open Windows Explorer

- Hold down the Windows logo key (bottom row: 2nd or 3rd key from the left - it might say 'start' on it)

- Press the letter 'E'

Right click on My Computer

- Left Click on Properties (last item at the bottom)

This is part of the display you'll see. In this case we have a 64-bit processor and a 32-bit operating system.