x64 processors

[AngelSammy]

Hi, looking to buy a new processor how can you tell if it is x64bit compatible on the box, they don't say and item descriptions lack that information too? Thanks in advance :)

[ChuckFickens]

When you say "processor" you do mean this bit, don't you?
http://authorshive.co...oads/2010/12/CPU1.jpg

If so all modern processors are 64bit but you'll have to ensure the rest of your system is a 64bt architecture to be able to install a 64bit OS.

[AngelSammy]

Thanks ChuckFickens, I find it weird because the Alienware I have isn't running a 64bit OS so wanted to upgrade. I've looked into the information of the processor and it's giving me x86 which means it's a 32bit. Alienware lied to me, brought the machine to run 64bit!

So wanting to buy a new processor for a socket 755 motherboard, all processors available or the highest one seem to be the same one I already have. Am I missing something? Processor currently have, Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Quad CPU Q6700 @ 2.66GHz (the highest one in this family I can find available is Q8400)

[AngelSammy]

*socket 775

[ChuckFickens]

You have a 64bit capable processor already (and almost certainly a 64bit capable system) you've just not got a 64bit version of windows installed.

And x86 is the normal way any intel compatible processor is reported if you have a 32bit OS

http://ark.intel.com/Product.aspx?id=30790

[ChuckFickens]

Actually thinking about it, I think even 64bit os's will report the processor as x86, because it is.... x86 just means it's an intel compatible processor there is officially no such thing as x64, it's just a short hand term to indicate that stuff is 64bit. if anything it should be x86-64.

[AngelSammy]

Ahh many thanks ChuckFickens, I've just gone into the command prompt and typed in systeminfo. I already know that I'm running a 32bit OS, but you're right, my processor says x64 bit family.

Hmm, I'm not sure why, I tried installing a 64bit OS Windows 7 but it won't allow it. Also installed the 64bit compatible advisor and that wouldn't run so I can't tell what else I need or am missing. Annoying as a poke in the eye.

[ChuckFickens]

Out of interest... why do you want a 64bit OS?

Also what's the model number of the system?

[AngelSammy]

Oh I don't remember the Alienware model number, unless you know how to check it somehow cos I don't! But the motherboard is EVGA122CKNF68B1, I can't find much info if at all about this motherboard on google search, it keeps coming up with the A1 instead of B1.

I use my computer for 3D modelling, it's what I do as a job.

[ChuckFickens]

As far as I can see from a quick look the b1 is the same as the a1 except it's setup for water cooling.

You should have no problems installing a 64 bit OS on that, I can't understand why it won't.