Desktop Computing Reborn
The evolution of business computers is in 64-bit systems.

By John Beveridge

Small businesses with computer purchases on the horizon should consider the next technological breakthrough: 64-bit computing.

Small business owners are constantly looking for ways to make their technology investments go the farthest. At a time when the life span of a computer system is ever shortening, there needs to be a solution that makes sense today, yet can efficiently support the next generation of operating systems and applications.

Most computers today use 32-bit processors, but the next step in the evolution is the 64-bit CPU.

A Little Background
Ever since the first IBM PC began shipping in 1982 with an 8-bit processor, the computer industry has been steadily improving both speed and performance.

The 8-bit CPU quickly was succeeded by the 16-bit i286, followed by the 32-bit i386. The next big performance jump occurred in 1993 with the Intel Pentium processor. Since then, there have been many improvements, all building on a 32-bit architecture, which still carries on through today’s mainstream PCs and servers.

Mid-range computer environments have had 64-bit systems for several years. And more recently, 64-bit systems have been introduced in mainstream small to medium-sized business servers, and some dedicated computer gaming systems.

Today, 64-bit computing has become feasible for the average desktop user. The hardware has matured, pricing is competitive with conventional 32-bit systems, and in April, Microsoft released a 64-bit version of Windows XP Pro. These new systems will help businesses regain the productivity they have lost because of the drain that sophisticated applications and background security scanners place on current systems.

Next year, Windows Vista again will challenge a PC’s performance by introducing new desktop tools and human interface options that will need the additional performance offered by 64-bit systems. And before we see Windows Vista, we will be moving to 64-bit versions of Windows XP, along with Microsoft Office and other mainstream business applications (especially in the CAD and graphics areas). Purchasing a 32-bit system today will only shorten the hardware life cycle that has eroded to 18-30 months in 32-bit systems.

Reasons to Upgrade to 64-Bit
Key reasons to upgrade to a 64-bit system include:
1.    Future-proofing your desktop hardware investment
2.    System pricing comparable to 32-bit systems
3.    Best platform for running multiple applications and supporting background application processes (e.g., anti-virus, anti-spyware, software firewall, etc.)
4.    Proven 64-bit hardware (September marks the second year anniversary of the AMD Athlon 64 CPU, the CPU primarily used in Windows Vista development)
5.    Supported 64-bit and 32-bit operating systems
6.    Better 64-bit driver availability
7.    Best hardware platform to support Microsoft’s next major release of Windows: i.e., Windows Vista

Although the 64-bit version of Windows XP Pro is available, driver support is somewhat lacking (much like when Windows 2000 Pro first became available). You need to research driver support for your peripherals first (e.g., video card, printer, third-party utilities and applications). If they are available, great, but just note that some manufacturers and software developers still are working on their 64-bit versions. But don’t worry, they will come eventually.

In light of that, try purchasing a 64-bit PC, but install the standard 32-bit version of Windows XP Pro. The 64-bit PC is fully backward compatible to 32-bit, and will support the mainstream operating systems and applications today, as well as give you peace of mind that your hardware investment will be ready to make the jump to 64-bit operating systems and applications when you’re ready.

Where to Buy
With 64-bit hardware being so new, and with the need for planning to fully implement a 64-bit system, you need to work with a local systems integrator or reseller who has been following the hardware developments closely over the years and specializes in custom built-to-order business systems. As with everything, the details make the difference. Your system integrator or reseller should also be registered in Microsoft, AMD and Intel partner programs.

Their experience and knowledge will help ensure your investment will not just integrate with your environment today. It will also support the next wave of 64-bit software and components, which will allow you to fully utilize the power that 64-bit computing has to offer.

John Beveridge is senior consultant and president of Advanced Network Services Inc. He can be reached at (913) 239-0383.