Changing Vista Ultimate 64-bit to 32-bit

[Judith]

I've touched on this previously a couple of months ago, but I then
incorporated a lot of questions at one time. HP offers a computer that has
everything I want except that the only Vista Ultimate offered is 64-bit. My
question is this: Since I want Ultimate, once I received it would I be able
to change the OS from Ultimate 64-bit to 32-bit? Based on my research about
software and external hardware I have, I should go with 32-bit, but for some
reason HP doesn't offer 32-bit Ultimate for this machine. They do offer
32-bit Vista Premium for the same PC, however.

 

[Tim Slattery]

I've touched on this previously a couple of months ago, but I then
incorporated a lot of questions at one time. HP offers a computer that has
everything I want except that the only Vista Ultimate offered is 64-bit. My
question is this: Since I want Ultimate, once I received it would I be able
to change the OS from Ultimate 64-bit to 32-bit?

Only by blowing away the 64-bit system and installing the 32-bit
system from scratch. Of course, you'd have to get 32-bit drivers for
whatever on the computer needs them.

 

[Patrick Keenan]

I've touched on this previously a couple of months ago, but I then
incorporated a lot of questions at one time. HP offers a computer that
has
everything I want except that the only Vista Ultimate offered is 64-bit.
My
question is this: Since I want Ultimate, once I received it would I be
able
to change the OS from Ultimate 64-bit to 32-bit? Based on my research
about
software and external hardware I have, I should go with 32-bit, but for
some
reason HP doesn't offer 32-bit Ultimate for this machine. They do offer
32-bit Vista Premium for the same PC, however.

Yes you can change, but you have to start from a bare drive, and if HP
doesn't supply it, you'll have to buy your own non-upgrade copy of Vista
Ultimate.

And you will need to be sure that the HP actually does have 32-bit drivers
for the board and attached hardware.

It's odd that they would do only 64-bit - you want to be sure in advance
that the reason for no 32-bit doesn't come as a nasty surprise. You might
call their sales line and see if there is a good reason.

HTH
-pk

 

[Jasper]

I've touched on this previously a couple of months ago, but I then
incorporated a lot of questions at one time. HP offers a computer that
has
everything I want except that the only Vista Ultimate offered is 64-bit.
My
question is this: Since I want Ultimate, once I received it would I be
able
to change the OS from Ultimate 64-bit to 32-bit? Based on my research
about
software and external hardware I have, I should go with 32-bit, but for
some
reason HP doesn't offer 32-bit Ultimate for this machine. They do offer
32-bit Vista Premium for the same PC, however.

What would be the problem with 64 bit? It runs 32 bit apps without any
problems that I have run into.

 

[Judith]

I appreciate all replies. Jasper, from what I have read the 64-bit OS might
not be compatible with my external hard drive, Sony external dvd burner and
my Plextor (for transferring vhs to dvd). I have searched for 64-bit drivers
for these on the various websites. To be honest, I'm not really concerned at
the present time as I will be keeping my WinXP MCE computer that is running
very well. But, there will come a time when the desktop will wear out and
the Vista computer might become my main computer. So, I want cutting edge
'everything' and still be able to use the equipment I listed above. Don't
really need the Vista computer--just want it. Most articles I read suggest
to stick with 32-bit. I'm just trying to be careful and as well informed as
can I can be on this subject. It was good to hear you had no problems with
the transition, though.

 

[Judith]

thanks for the input, Patrick. Yes, it is strange about HP. I did email
them on the subject to see if I could have the 32-bit Ultimate since the
computer is customized. They just said, 'No.' When I get to that point that
I'm ready to take the plunge, I will call them.