Quadcore - 64-bit?

[officespacer]

Hi, I'm looking to buy this CPU:

Intel Core 2 Quad Q9450 Yorkfield 2.66GHz 12MB L2 Cache LGA 775 95W Quad-Core Processor - Retail
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16819115042

I'm trying to figure out what OS would work best with it. Does this processor support Vista 64-bit? I'm looking to get 8GB of memory but I heard that the 8GB only works with a 64-bit processor and I don't see that listed anywhere under the processor specs. First off, is that even true? 2nd off... will this work?

Can someone help straighten me out??

 

[liljone]

I know you need 64-bit OS,64-bit Chipset for 8GB of ram but dunno if the CPU it self has to be 64-bit. But im going say yes to the 64-bit CPU.


edit: that chip dose in fact support 64 bit:


Main Specification
Product Description Intel Quad Core Q9450 / 2.66 GHz processor
Product Type Processor
Processor Type Intel Quad Core Q9450
Multi-Core Technology Quad-Core
64-bit Computing Yes
Compatible Processor Socket LGA775 Socket
Processor Qty 1
Clock Speed 2.66 GHz
Bus Speed 1333 MHz
Manufacturing Process 45 nm
Cache Memory L2 Advanced Smart Cache - 12 MB
Features Enhanced SpeedStep technology, Intel Extended Memory 64 Technology, Execute Disable Bit capability, Intel Virtualization Technology
Compatible Slots 1 x processor - LGA775 Socket
Manufacturer Warranty 3 year warranty

 

[shadowthor]

The Q9450 is a 64 bit processor, either OS 32 bit/64 bit works on it, but driver support is not as good on the 64 bit as it is on 32 bit.

 

[liljone]

note that: 32-bit programs will still work on a 64-OS just wont use all 8GB of ram. So go for it

 

[nukemaster]

For the 8 gigs of ram you need the 64 bit OS. but as said, drivers. With 32 bit you will only have access to 3.0-3.6 of it in most cases.

Also be warned. NO 16-bit apps work on XP 64 or Vista 64. Not that there are many around, but you may run into some old 16 bit installers(old games mostly) for 32 bit software that will not work.

 

[liljone]

Delete

 

[officespacer]

Thanks guys. I expect driver support to get better as time goes on... so as long as I know it will work, that's OK!

 

[nukemaster]

I have a Q6600 + 8gigs + Vista64(still in testing), so yeah, it works

 

[lucuis]

I have a q6600, 8gb ram, and Vista 64bit as well. No problems here with drivers.

I had a bit of trouble with unsigned drivers early on, but that has all since evaporated. It seems as if the driver signing thing for 64bit has been disabled.