a couple q's re:xp 64, 4GB RAM, AMD vs Intel

[TOR]

just a couple quick questions for a computer im bulding:

1. I know there are issues with xp and 4GB ram. Can XP 64 utilize 4GB ram?
2. I'm going with a dual core, as money is an issue and 3x or 4x's are still a bit pricey. I sourced an AMD dual core 6000 CPU and an GIGA AM2+ mobo, is this the go? or is it that big a diff to upgrade to an intel core2 duo?
3. i have 1 SATA 250GB drive, 1 IDE 320GB drive, and will be purchasing a 750GB SATA drive for samples. should I use the IDE for the OS or projects?

I've tried searching and my head nearly exploded with information overload! is there a definitive answer to these questions? any help much appreciated.

cheers slutz

~T

[Alndln]

Originally Posted by TOR

I know there are issues with xp and 4GB ram. Can XP 64 utilize 4GB ram?

XP 64 can use much more than that if you have it, but the OS won't be supported by DAW companies, only VISTA 64.

1. I'm going with a dual core, as money is an issue and 3x or 4x's are still a bit pricey. I sourced an AMD dual core 6000 CPU and an GIGA AM2+ mobo, is this the go? or is it that big a diff to upgrade to an intel core2 duo?

   A 2.4ghz Core 2 Duo was about 20% more powerful than my 2.4ghz dual Opteron in the Sonar DAW test I participated in. A dual 3.1ghz AMD dualcore should be more than powerful enough for most conventional situations. Intel Core 2 Duos or Quad will get you a lot more power though. For AMD, most Gigabyte boards are fine.

2. i have 1 SATA 250GB drive, 1 IDE 320GB drive, and will be purchasing a 750GB SATA drive for samples. should I use the IDE for the OS or projects?

   Use the IDE for OS.

[TOR]

awesome! thank you.

just a follow up - will xp pro SP3 be able to utilize 4GB ram?

thanks again

[Alndln]

Originally Posted by TOR

awesome! thank you.

just a follow up - will xp pro SP3 be able to utilize 4GB ram?

thanks again

No, XP 32 has a 3gb limit. You can try the 3gb switch which will let XP 32 see more than 3gb, but I don't think most 32 bit apps will take advantage of it. Hopefully someone else can chime in here with more knowledge on the issue. Here's a link to the 3gb switch issue.

• http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/system...ae/paemem.mspx

[ekwipt]

I doubt you'd notice much difference from 3GB to 4GB, higher than that go vista 64bit