How to find out if a laptop is 32 or 64 bit. Bit sizes of processors and operating systems. Maximum amount of RAM
Hello everyone, dear friends and readers of my blog. Today I will talk about the bit capacity of systems and processors. About how to find out the bit capacity of the system, what to do if you want to switch from one to another, etc. If there are any misunderstandings, write in the comments, we’ll discuss everything.
I’ll say right away that information about processors and operating systems it is not particularly rational to describe in this article. The fact is that ordinary users Those who want to buy a computer or build one themselves should only worry about a couple of things. The basics so to speak. And everything can be described in a nutshell, but I rolled out a whole article. This is where irrationality manifests itself. Although initially I wrote it in a strict direction, but then I began to move towards processors. In general, it turned out to be two in one. The capacity of processors and operating systems is closely related to each other. That's why I rolled it out. But there are also advantages. Most people will understand what's what. About 90 percent. The rest lets go in the comments.
What it is? Give me a definition!
Bit depth is the amount of processed information (bits) performed by a computer processor in one clock cycle. Bit depth or bit depth is nothing more than a way of processing information.
Processors are divided by bit capacity and this moment they are divided into two categories. The first category is 32-bit (x86) processors, and the second category is 64-bit. I don't know why 32-bit processors are called x84. If you know, please write in the comments.
Of course, there are 16-bit processors, but these are obvious exhibits in museums, the last century. DOS family systems ran on a 16-bit processor. And the volume supported random access memory was less than 1 megabyte! To be more precise, it seems to be 640 kilobytes. Then came 32-bit and relatively recently 64-bit.
By the way, yes, for those who don’t know: bits, bytes, kilobytes, megabytes are all units of information. There are 8 bits in one byte, 1024 bytes in a kilobyte, 1024 kilobytes in a megabyte, etc. The logic is clear.
To make it clearer regarding the definition, I decided to give an example: there is a truck with bricks and a route. The bricks are the beats, the route is the beat. All cars have a certain carrying capacity - bit capacity (the number of information processed). Do you understand what I'm getting at? A route is a step along which a truck with bricks (bits) travels. A one-way trip determines the capacity. Something like this.
Why do you need a 64-bit processor? History in a nutshell
The answer is simple, use it! It all depends on your needs and requirements from the computer. The fact is that at the beginning of 2000 the question of productivity arose. When running programs that consume more RAM, their use on 32-bit systems has become less productive. In general, AMD released a 64-bit processor architecture, which gave a new round to the development of technology. Sixty-four-bit systems, unlike thirty-two-bit systems, are capable of working with large amounts of RAM.
By the way, the first windows operating system that learned to work on a 64-bit processor was and remains windows xp. But again, few people used this particular version, since it was the rising dawn of 64-bit processors.
In general, in fact, the 64-bit processor was invented back in the 90s and was not cheap. Not many could afford such luxury. I don’t know who developed it, but I know that AMD made money, so to speak, by releasing a 64-bit processor to the masses before Intel. That is, she did it first.
What are the differences between 32bit and 64bit windows?
Like processors, operating windows systems and not only, they are also divided into 32bit and 64bit. When purchasing a disk with an operating system, this must be included on the packaging. Moreover, on a computer with a 32-bit processor, you can install only a 32-bit Windows system, and indeed any 32-bit operating system, respectively. And on a computer with a 64-bit processor, you can install both a 32-bit system and a 64-bit one. Well, in general, any 64-bit systems in principle. It’s just that many people have Windows, which is why I use it in the article.
Only 32-bit systems, so to speak, “see” only 4 gigabytes of RAM, even less - 3.5 gigabytes. 64-bit systems see much more up to 192 gigabytes. It all depends on the hardware capabilities of Windows itself. If someone thinks, what is this even? You don't have to think about it. An easier option is to go and look at the minimum system requirements from the hardware required by the system distribution.
How do you understand difference between 32-bit and 64-bit systems is that the second handles more RAM. You won’t find any visual differences in the official builds.
There is another difference, which is program support. Nowadays you can find programs on the Internet that are written only for a 64-bit system. So here are 64-bit programs won't work on 32-bit windows. But if the system is 64-bit, then on it they will work both 64 and 32-bit programs. In a 64-bit system, there is a subsystem, and when 32-bit programs are launched, they are launched in emulation mode.
For example adobe program premiere Designed for video processing, and to work with video, as we know, more random access memory (RAM) is needed. Therefore, the program is released only for 64-bit systems! It makes no sense to release it for 32-bit systems from Adobe. Yes, the program would work, but due to the lack of RAM during actual work it would slow down like a child. In general, Adobe considered the use of this program on 32-bit systems not rational. Now let's move on to determining the bit capacity of systems.
Bit depth in windows vista, 7, 8, 10
First way: In order to determine the bit depth of the Windows system, right-click on the “My Computer” shortcut, which is located on the desktop. Next, click on “Properties” and look at the bit capacity of your Windows.
Second way: is to enter the command into the command line msinfo32. A window will open system program, which shows information about the computer. Screenshot below.
This command will probably work on Windows xp. At least that’s what was written on the Microsoft website, but I also checked using zeros.
Bit depth in windows xp
In Windows XP you can find out the bit depth using the same principle, although there are differences, but not big ones. Right click on "My computer", press "Properties". A window will open. Go to the tab "General", you will find information there. You can also log in via "Control Panel", Do not forget.
If nothing is written, namely 86 or 32, then the bit depth is 32-bit. If the system is 64-bit, then you will definitely see this. It will be written.
A universal way to find out the bit depth
What is universal is good. Actually, there’s not much to tell here, a couple of clicks and that’s it.
First way: You can use the Microsoft website, which will actually show us the bit depth by analyzing the computer. Come here. And look here:
And we understand that we are using a 32-bit system.
Second way: enter command systeminfo to the command line.
Third way: download individual programs. Here are the most famous: cpu-z, aida64, speccy.
Determining bit depth in ubuntu
To determine the system capacity, you need to go to "System Information".
You can also use the commands: lscpu.
Or cat /proc/cpuinfo.
It is worth considering that the commands display the bit capacity of the processor, not the operating system itself. But in most cases, the bit depths are the same for both the operating system and the processor itself. As far as I know, the commands work on all versions of Linux.
32 or 64? Which processor is better?
As mentioned, it all depends on your computer requirements. What do you want from him? If you read the article, the answer should present itself. You already understand that a 64-bit processor is powerful. I completely agree with you, but only if it is used in conjunction with RAM, the volume of which is at least 4 gigabytes. If you use less than 4 gigabytes, then do not expect any performance gain. Rather, your operating system will “eat up all” the RAM, leaving you with crumbs left to use.
Nowadays, most processors on the shelves are 64-bit, and there are almost no 32-bit ones left. But this is in my opinion. Unless in some laptops or office computers. It is reasonable to use a 64-bit processor for gaming computer or a computer for video editing. I think the conclusion is clear to you.
That's all. Subscribe to my blog, keep up with the news, of which there are not many. I think I’ll soon start working on the blog and interesting articles will be published more often, but for now I’m completely busy with my studies. Write in the comments if something is unclear, there will be time for an answer. Bye everyone.
A 32-bit computer does not have the same capabilities as a 64-bit computer. If you don't know what type of Windows OS you are using, here we will tell you how you can find out.
What does the term "bit" mean?
The term "bit" is an abbreviation of the English "binary digit", which means "binary number". This is the most simple system number, consisting of a sequence of digits 0 and 1.32 and 64 - what's the difference?
In order for the computer to be able to interpret sequences of words written in binary code as simply as possible, it was decided that they would respond to a specific morphology. This implies their length, expressed in bits. At first they were 16 bits long, and then 32, or even 64. Thus, words of 64 bits are longer than 32.Command line
Call the command Execute holding down the keys Windows + R and type winver and click OK.Look at the banner at the top of the window - it will contain information: 32- or 64-bit system. If this information is not available, then (in most cases) you are dealing with a 32-bit version of Windows.
Windows 10 and 8
Method 1
Right-click the Windows logo in the lower left corner of the screen and select from the menu Settings/System. In the window that opens, in the column System look at the information about the bit depth of the installed OS.Hotkeys for calling this window are: Windows+ Pause/Break.
Method 2
You can also right-click This computer > Properties.In the window that opens, information will be mentioned: 32-bit or 64-bit system.
If there is no information, then (in most cases) this is a 32-bit version of Windows.
Method 3
Go to disk C:\. Folder presence Program Files (x86), indicates a 64-bit system. Otherwise it is a 32-bit system.Windows 8
Open Charm Bar (Windows+ C), go to Settings > PC Information. The system type will be indicated in the section System.Vista and 7
Click the button Start> Control Panel > system and safety. In the column System the system type will be indicated.Image: © John Schnobrich - Unsplash.com
Some users (especially many fans of modern computer games) may be faced with the need to determine the bitness of their operating system. This may be due to the requirements of a number of programs for which only a certain OS is suitable, the need to install drivers that are suitable only for a certain system, and so on. In this article I will explain how to find out how many bits are 32 or 64 Windows 7, 8, 10, XP, what methods exist for this and how to use them.
A little about 32 and 64 bits
Before answering the question of how to determine how many bits are 32 or 64 in Windows, you need to describe what bit depth is and what its specifics are. In this case, by bit depth is called the ability of a device to simultaneously process a certain number of bits(bits, information). That is, the higher the bit capacity of your processor, the more information per unit of time it can process, and the speed of your system definitely benefits from this.
There are currently two main versions of the Windows operating system:
- 32-bit (it is also called x86 - from the architecture of the I8086 microprocessor, which at one time was used for 32-bit programs);
- 64-bit (x64) is a more modern and actively promoted version of the system.
The difference between them is not only in the bit capacity of the central processor, but also in the maximum supported RAM. A 32-bit (bit) OS can support a maximum of about 3.5 gigabytes of memory, and even if you install more memory, only the specified 3.5 gigabytes will be supported.
A 64-bit system can support much more (about 200 gigabytes), which significantly increases the capabilities of the computer. However, the visual difference between 32 and 64-bit versions of Windows is often minimal, if you see it at all.
At the same time, for installing a 64-system it is extremely important that CPU was 64-bit and supported the appropriate instructions. Otherwise, when installing a 64-bit OS on a 32-bit machine, you will not notice much of a difference; moreover, the 64-bit version will consume more PC resources due to its more extensive needs (which may negatively affect the speed of your OS). And this is not to mention the problem with drivers, because not all devices have drivers for a 64-bit OS. In general, there is something to think about here.
Methods for identifying the bitness of the operating system
So, how can you identify whether your OS is 32-bit or 64-bit Windows 7, 8, 10, XP? I suggest doing the following:
How to find out how many bits are 32 or 64 Windows 7, 8, 10, XP - helper programs
In answering the question, “How to determine how many bits are 32 or 64 in Windows 7, 8, 10, XP,” we can also be helped by auxiliary programs created to view the characteristics of your computer. I recommend paying attention to these software products How EVEREST, Speccy, SiSoftware Sandra, System Spec and a number of others, after installing them on your computer you will receive detailed information about the hardware of your PC, including information about the bit depth of your OS version.
Conclusion
In this material, I looked at options on how to find out how many bits are 32 or 64 in your Windows 7, 8, 10 or XP. The most universal advice, which works for almost all of the listed operating systems, is to use the Win+Pause key combination, which will allow you to open access to system information, which will also indicate the bitness of your OS. If for some reason this option does not suit you, then you can use the alternatives described above, and also use a number of utilities, intended specifically for the purposes I am considering.
Many on our site are wondering what bit size (bit) Windows should be installed on a computer, 32 or 64 bit? In this article we will clarify the situation with the choice of 32 or 64 bit systems.
First, let's figure out what the bit depth (bit depth) of an architecture is.
The terms 32-bit and 64-bit refer to the way a computer's processor (CPU) processes information. The 64-bit version of Windows handles large amounts of random access memory (RAM) more efficiently than a 32-bit system. Wikipedia has 2 pages about 32 (x86) and 64 bit architecture:
- 32 (x86) - a processor architecture with the same instruction set, first implemented in Intel processors.
The name is derived from the two numbers that ended the names Intel processors early models - 8086, 80186, 80286 (i286), 80386 (i386), 80486 (i486). During its existence, the set of commands has constantly expanded, maintaining compatibility with previous generations.
In addition to Intel, the architecture was also implemented in processors from other manufacturers: AMD, VIA, Transmeta, IDT, etc. Currently, there is another name for the 32-bit version of the architecture - IA-32 (Intel Architecture - 32).
- 64 - 64-bit extension, instruction set, for the x86 architecture, developed by AMD, allowing programs to run in 64-bit mode.
It is an extension of the x86 architecture with almost complete backward compatibility. Microsoft and Oracle use the term "x64" to refer to this instruction set, but the file directory for the architecture in Microsoft Windows distributions is called "amd64" (cf. "i386" for the x86 architecture).
The x86-64 instruction set is currently supported:
- AMD - Z-series processors (for example, AMD Z-03), C-series (for example, AMD C-60), G-series (for example, AMD T56N), E-series (for example, AMD E-450), E1 , E2, A4, A6, A8, A10, FX, Athlon 64, Athlon 64 FX, Athlon 64 X2, Athlon II, Phenom, Phenom II, Turion 64, Turion 64 X2, Turion II, Opteron, FX, latest Sempron models;
- Intel (with minor simplifications) called "Intel 64" (previously known as "EM64T" and "IA-32e") in later models Pentium processors 4, as well as in Pentium D, Pentium Extreme Edition, Celeron D, Celeron G-series, Celeron B-series, Pentium Dual-Core, Pentium T-series, Pentium P-series, Pentium G-series, Pentium B-series, Core 2 Duo, Core 2 Quad, Core 2 Extreme, Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, Atom (not all) and Xeon;
- VIA - Nano, Eden, QuadCore processors.
Yes, all this is difficult to understand. I’ll explain in my own words, the 64-bit OS architecture is an improved 32 (86) bit architecture. It has newer instruction sets for calculations and can also handle larger amounts of RAM. If we take the Windows OS family, then a 32-bit OS can actually handle only 3.2 gigabytes of RAM, and 64 theoretically up to 4 terabytes. What does this tell us?
What to choose: 32 or 64?
About the fact that it is advisable to install the OS based on the amount of RAM. For example, if you have 3GB of RAM or less, it is better for you to install a 32-bit system, and if you have more than 3GB, it is better to install a 64-bit system. But don't forget about what processor you have. In our service, we have long noticed that if the processor has low frequency(from 1 to 2.4 GHz), then on a 64-bit OS the computer runs slowly, even if it has 4 or more GB of RAM installed. According to our service, it is better to install 32-bit systems and no more than 4GB of RAM on such computers. In addition, large manufacturers of laptops with low-frequency processors also install 32-bit systems from the factory, even with 4GB of memory. Installing the 64-bit version of Windows requires a processor that can run 64-bit Windows. The benefits of using a 64-bit operating system are especially evident when working with large amounts of random access memory (RAM), such as 4 GB or more. In such cases, a 64-bit operating system handles large amounts of memory more efficiently than a 32-bit system. A 64-bit operating system works faster when running multiple programs at the same time and switching between them frequently. In any case, what to install is up to you, and we will answer your questions below.
How can I tell if my computer has 32-bit or 64-bit Windows?
To use Windows or determine which version of Windows your computer is running (32-bit or 64-bit), follow these steps.
Open the System component. To do this, click the Start button, right-click Computer, and select Properties. In Windows 8, open Control Panel and go to System.
In the System section, you can view the system type.
If the computer is running Windows control XP, follow these steps.
If the window that appears does not say “x64 Edition,” your computer is running a 32-bit version of Windows XP.
If "x64 Edition" is listed under System, your computer is running a 64-bit version of Windows XP.
Click the Start button.
How can I determine if my computer can run a 64-bit version of Windows?
For a computer to run a 64-bit version of Windows, it must have a 64-bit processor. To find out if your processor supports 64-bit computing in Windows, follow these steps:
- In search type MSINFO, or
In Windows, select the Show and print detailed information about your computer and system performance.
Open the Performance Counters and Tools section. To do this, click the Start button and select the Control Panel component (in 8 we immediately go to the Control Panel). In the search box, type Performance Counters and Tools, and then select Performance Counters and Tools from the list of results.
Perform one of the following actions.
In the System section, you can see what type of operating system you are using (under System Type) and whether you can use a 64-bit version of Windows (under 64-bit support). (If your computer is already running a 64-bit version of Windows, the 64-bit support section does not appear.)
To determine whether a computer running Windows XP can run the 64-bit version of Windows, follow these steps:
If the System section says "x64 Edition", the processor supports running a 64-bit version of Windows.
If there is no "x64 Edition" label, the processor may also be compatible with 64-bit versions of Windows. To pinpoint this possibility, download and run the free Windows 7 Upgrade Advisor from Windows 7 migration advisor.
Click the Start button.
Right-click My Computer and select Properties.
Can I upgrade from 32-bit Windows to 64-bit Windows, or move from 64-bit Windows to 32-bit Windows?
If you want to migrate from 32-bit Windows to 64-bit Windows or vice versa, you should back up your files and select full installation Windows. Then you need to restore files and reinstall programs.
Notes
To install the 64-bit version of Windows on a computer running 32-bit Windows, you will need to boot the computer using the 64-bit Windows installation disc or files.
If a computer that boots with a 64-bit version of Windows installation disc or files does not support that version of Windows, a manager error message will be displayed Windows boot. Instead you will need to use installation disk or 32-bit Windows files.
Transfer Tool Windows data does not move files from 64-bit Windows to 32-bit Windows. If you are using a 64-bit version of Windows XP, you will need to manually transfer the files to external media.
Can I run 32-bit programs and drivers on a 64-bit computer?
Most programs created for 32-bit Windows versions, will also work on 64-bit versions of Windows. Some antiviruses are exceptions.
Device drivers designed for 32-bit versions of Windows do not work on computers running 64-bit versions of Windows. If you try to install a printer or other device with a 32-bit driver, it will not work correctly on a 64-bit version of Windows.
Can I run 64-bit programs and drivers on a 32-bit computer?
If a program is specifically designed to run on 64-bit Windows, it will not run on 32-bit Windows. (However, most programs designed for 32-bit versions of Windows also work on 64-bit versions of Windows.)
Device drivers designed for 64-bit versions of Windows do not work on computers running 32-bit versions of Windows.
Do I need 64-bit device drivers when running 64-bit Windows?
Yes. All devices require 64-bit drivers to run on 64-bit Windows. Drivers designed for 32-bit versions of Windows do not work on computers running 64-bit versions of Windows.
What are the disadvantages of 64 bit Windows?
- Stutters when there is a small amount of RAM.
- It is difficult to find drivers for old devices, for example, printers, scanners, TV tuners, etc.
- Some older programs and games do not work on 64-bit architecture.
- Some older Windows, such as Windows 7 Starter, cannot run on a 64-bit system.
Well, that’s all we wanted to tell you in this article, we hope you make the right choice! If you need good computer tips, click on the link and learn more about your computer.
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