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The number of bits is determined by the processor. Early microprocessors were 4 or 8 bit; the machine instructions were essentially 4 or 8 bits wide and the processor performed arithmatic in 4 or 8 bit "chunks". Later processors used 16, 32 or 64 bits and advanced processors can switch between different "modes" of operation. The principle advantage of more bits is that more memory can be addressed, arithmatic operations can deal with bigger numbers and instructions can be more "complicated". However, to make use of the different processor sizes, the operating system must be designed to use the bigger processors; most versions of Windows are 32 bit - the operating system software is compiled for use on 32 bit processors. Microsoft also sell 64 bit versions of Windows which are compiled for 64 bit processors.

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15y ago
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14y ago

i think 32bit means its number system. Refers to the number of bits that can be processed or transmitted in parallel, or the number of bits used for single element in a data format. The term is often applied to the following:

microprocessor: indicates the width of the registers. A 32-bit microprocessor can process data and memory addresses that are represented by 32 bits.

operating system: refers primarily to the number of bits used to represent memory addresses.

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12y ago

64-bit therefore refers to a processor with registers that store 64-bit numbers. A generalization would be to suggest that 64-bit architecture would double the amount of data a CPU can process per clock cycle. Users would note a performance increase because a 64-bit CPU can handle more memory and largerfiles. One of the most attractive features of 64-bit processors is the amount of memory the system can support. 64-bit architecture will allow systems to address up to 1 terabyte (1000GB) of memory. In today's 32-bit desktop systems, you can have up to 4GB of RAM (provided your motherboard that can handle that much RAM) which is split between the applications and the operating system (OS).

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Q: What is a 32 bit operating system?
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What is the difference between a 64-bit operating system and a 32-bit operating system?

In simple terms, 32-bit operating systems can only be able to run on 32-bit CPUs and 32-bit apps, but a 64-bit operating system can be able to run both 32-bit and 64-bit CPUs and apps.


What determines whether you can use a 32 bit operating system or a 64 bit operating system?

Your processor.


Can you run a 64-bit operating system on a 32-bit processor?

No.


Is vista home premium 32 bit or 64 bit?

1. Click Start, type system in the Start Searchbox, and then click system in the Programs list. 2. The operating system appears as follows: • For a 64-bit version operating system: 64-bit Operating System appears for the System type under System. • For a 32-bit version operating system: 32-bit Operating System appears for the System type under System. ==== ==== == 1. Click Start, type system in the Start Search box, and then click System Information in the Programs list. 2. The operating system appears as follows: • For a 64-bit version operating system: x64-based PC appears for the System type under Item. • For a 32-bit version operating system: x86-based PC appears for the System typeunder Item.


Would 64 bit java work on a 32 bit operating system?

No.


What are preferable to use 32-bit drivers or 16-bit drivers?

Assuming you are running a 32 bit (modern) operating system, 32.


What is the main advantage of selecting a 64bit operating system over a 32bit operating system?

It isn't an issue of advantages, it is an issue of compatibility with your computer. The 64 bit operating system can take full advantage of the capabilities of a 64 bit microprocessor, if your computer has a 64 bit microprocessor. However a 64 bit operating system will not run at all if your computer has an older 32 bit microprocessor; you will have to use a 32 bit operating system on that computer.


What is the difference between a 32 bit operating system and a 64 bit operating system?

a bit is the amount of information in a system having two equiprobable states. There are 8 bits in a byte. So a 64 bit would be a better operating system because bit is a measurement of information. Depending on what you want your operating system to do a 32 bit is an average computer but if you will probably have tons of files and downloads or installations then if you really want to spend more money then go for a 64 bit but a 32 bit is a good computer also.


What is Maximum RAM support for 32 bit operating system?

32 bit OS support max 2^32 bit = 4GB RAM


Dell power edge 2650 supports 32 or 64 bit operating system?

32 bit only


How do you run a 32-bit browser on a 64-bit operating system?

Most 64-bit operating systems contain a 32-bit translation layer. Installing a 32-bit program is no different than installing a 64-bit one.


Would a 64Bit processor work with a 32Bit operating system?

It can do but it is really the other way around. A 32-bit operating system can work with a 64-bit processor. However, if the processor doesn't have a "soft" switching mode, you will have to manually switch the 64-bit processor to 32-bit mode via the CMOS setup. Ideally you should install a 64-bit operating system and leave the processor in 64-bit mode. This will then allow you to run 32-bit programs and 64-bit programs side-by-side.