¹Minimum RAM specifications in this table are higher than Microsoft's unrealistically low minimum requirements. Computers configured according to this table will run acceptably for most users.

²Sixty-four (64) bit versions of Windows can effectively address up to 128 GB RAM. Current hardware limits personal computers to 8 GB. This limit will increase with advances in technology.

³Windows Vista 64-bit Basic Edition supports up to 8 GB RAM. All other 64-bit versions of Windows Vista support up to 128 GB RAM.

Thirty-two (32) bit versions of Windows do not benefit from more than 3.50 GB system RAM though System Properties may show 4 GB or more.

Windows Vista 64-bit software is included only with Windows Vista Ultimate Edition retail package. Other 64-bit versions may be ordered from Microsoft or may be supplied as an OEM product from Dell, Gateway, etc.

Most users are adequately served by the 32-bit versions of Windows. This is changing as the cost of RAM plummets and software applications that can utilize the RAM are developed. Already, Gateway have competitively priced 64-bit retail systems available at Best Buy that are targeted at gamers and power users. Dell have recently done the same with their XPS 630 and other high end computers.

Microsoft Windows 7 shall be offered in 64-bit and 32-bit versions for backwards compatibility. Reportedly, it will be the final Microsoft operating system release for 32-bit only hardware. Windows 7 should be available September 2009.

12/01/2008