How do I get 64-bit Vista?

The OEM versions are all 32 bit.  If you want 64 bit you will have to buy a Retail 64 bit version (not an upgrade).  However, do your homework before upgrading as there are some issues with availability of drivers for 64 bit and there isn't a lot of software that takes advantage of the 64 bit.   At some point there will be more 64 bit support and eventually it will become the standard - probably several years down the road.

 

BTW, this forum is a mostly non-Dell employee users helping users.

The OEM 64 bit Vista cost about $115.00 from www.newegg.com if you want to purchase it later on.

 

Dells advisory about 4 gigs

http://configure.us.dell.com/dellstore/config.aspx?c=us&cs=19&l=en&oc=DDCWDI1&s=dhs
What it reads below…..

" Systems configured with 4GB memory or more: The total amount of available memory will be less than 4GB. The amount less depends on the actual system configuration ".



Only sure way to address the full 4 gigs of memory is to get the 64 bit version of the operating system. Once you do, than you will have to download the Microsoft Hotfix and have it waiting some where on the desktop for later install.

You will than turn off the system, remove two sticks of memory, leaving you with 2 Gb total. Boot back up, install the Hotfix, than turn off the system and reinstall the other 2 gb of memory into the proper slots. Boot back up, now you are done.

Hotfix download link
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/929777  


If you want the 64 bit version of the operating system, than you can at anytime, purchase the OEM Vista 64 bit version from most retail computer stores or online, which does not cost as much as the Retail version, but it’s only good of one system, and no tech support either.  To get Micorosoft tech support, you can as Fireberd suggested and get the retail Vista 64 bit.
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Yes, OEM or "Retail" will work.  My reference to "Retail" was meant that you would have to buy it someplace that sells the product.

I don't plan to convert until after SP1 -- by which time I hope the driver situation will have improved.  I was just planning ahead and my conversation with a sales rep gave me the impression that I would have everything necessary.

 

According to the Dell technical rep, the CD included with the system is supposed to have both versions; the 64-bit version just uses a different key.  As it happens, a colleague reminded me that we got retail keys for Vista Ultimate at an event last January so I think I'm set.  If that doesn't work, I guess I'll have to bite the bullet and pay Newegg for the 64-bit CD.

 

Thanks for the details about how to convert; I've printed the message and put it in the folder with my complimentary key so that I'll have them when I actually get ready to convert. 

My DVD that came with my Vista System Feburary only included 32 bit version.   

 

As far as I know the 64 bit OS is on a Seperate DVD.  

 

Personally I going to stick with 32 Bit version of Vista, until the next version which at that point may be all 64 bit.   The issue with the drivers and the fact no or very few 64 bit program even exist now keep me on Vista 32. 

 

I figure that once 64 bit version is in place and main stream you may want more memory than the 4 GB that most system support today anyway.  

 

 

 

 

My new machine will support up to 8GB -- which is why I asked about the 64-bit issue before I bought it. Personally, I think it's illogical of Dell to sell a machine with the capacity and not offer a way to use it.

 

 If the Dell DVD won't let me convert to 64-bit with a key, I'll just borrow a retail DVD and use my own key.

Again, I don't have to buy anything;  -- I already have a legitimate RETAIL key for Windows Vista Ultimate.  If the Dell DVD won't let me convert to 64-bit, I just have to find someone who already has the DVD and I can use my own key.

Dell OEM version will not give you the option to get the 64 bit Vista.  Retail only, so that limits you to getting a full retail which in my opinion is a waste or get the OEM 64 bit vista instead, again for about $115.00

No Athenian.  The Dell Vista Ultimate is OEM, not retail, and Microsoft will not allow you to ask for the 64 bit OS.  Has to be retail from a retail store or online.  Not Dells Vista

 

Trying someone elses retail 64 bit OS will not work either.  Its for that system, not yours and is a no no in trying.  It will not work