Windows XP standard vs. Windows x64

[m_ridzon]

I was recently handed a laptop to reformat. The owner gave me a Windows XP
Pro (w/SP2) disk and they also gave me a Windows XP Pro x64 Edition disk.
I've never worked with the x64 edition. I know how to reformat computers but
I've never been given 2 disks before. Am I supposed to use both of these
disks to reformat it? Or is it possible that one disk was erroneously given
to me? What is the x64 edition? Is it an upgrade to the standard version?
How do I know what's currently installed? Which one should I use to reformat
the computer? Any help?

Thanks,
M Ridzon

 

[Malke]

I was recently handed a laptop to reformat. The owner gave me a Windows
XP Pro (w/SP2) disk and they also gave me a Windows XP Pro x64 Edition
disk.
I've never worked with the x64 edition. I know how to reformat computers
but
I've never been given 2 disks before. Am I supposed to use both of these
disks to reformat it? Or is it possible that one disk was erroneously
given
to me? What is the x64 edition? Is it an upgrade to the standard
version?
How do I know what's currently installed? Which one should I use to
reformat
the computer? Any help?

1. If you seriously don't understand about 32-bit and 64-bit operating
systems, you shouldn't be working on anyone else's computer. I say that not
to hurt your feelings but just to be practical. Have the person who gave
you the computer take the machine to a qualified professional. You might
pass on to them that I don't recommend using a BigComputerStore/GeekSquad
type of place.

2. Yes of course these are two separate operating systems. You make a choice
depending on what was originally installed. Naturally you will need the
correct drivers for each OS.

3. As to why the person gave you disks for two operating systems, you'll
need to ask them. If they tell you they want XP 64-bit, make sure they
understand that not all of their peripherals may work with it. They (or
you) should check first to make sure that their printers have 64-bit
drivers available.

Again, I didn't write the above to be hurtful but you need to know what
you're doing if you're going to work on someone else's computer.

Malke

 

[John John (MVP)]

How to determine whether a computer is running a 32-bit version or a
64-bit version of the Windows operating system
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/827218

You will use one or the other, not both, once installed you cannot
upgrade an installation from 32-bit to 64-bit or downgrade from 64-bit
to 32-bit.

John

 

[Mike Moreland]

Why wouldn't you try to do this yourself?? This is a help community. You
learn more by doing things yourself, than by taking it to Geek Squad.
Obviously, if its your boss at work, than you want to be cautious. However,
if it's a friend or a family member, etc. Then why not do it yourself??
You've re-installed an OS before... It's not much different installing x64.
Honestly XP Pro x64 really never took off that well. It had serious
compatibility issues. Anyway, if you use your computer for more than just
checking your email... Then it's only a matter of time before you'll be
facing the same problem again.

 

[m_ridzon]

Mike, John

I appreciate with your comments. As stated, I have reformated dozens of
computers successfully. I simply posed the question because I wasn't
familiar with 64 bit systems. Undoubtedly, I will be able to successfully
reformat this laptop whether it's 32 bit or 64 bit.

Malke,

I appreciate your honesty. However, I feel very confident in successfully
rebuilding this system with no problems. I have yet to work with 64 bit
systems so I simply wanted to gain some insight to it from the community. If
I felt terribly inadequate and unable to do the job, I certainly would take
it to a computer shop.

Thanks,
M Ridzon