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Introduction to 64-bit Computing and x86-64

Posted by michael on from the peace-love-and-understanding dept.

James writes "Ars Technica has an article up explaining 64-bit computing from the x86 angle, specifically from the angle of AMD's Hammer. The article explains the details in that usual Ars style, and I found it very useful for thinking about what kinds of applications I may want to put to the test on one of these when we get a box in the office. Even non-x86 freaks may appreciate this, since it breaks down some of the basic advantages of 64-bit computing, and just who can expect to see gains in the near future."

2 of 259 comments (clear)

  1. 64 bit chips R cool . . . by user+no.+590291 · · Score: 1, Troll

    . . . but I'll be buying them if and only if they don't include TCPA/Palladium/Trusted PC Platform/Name of lockdown scheme of the week.

  2. Will x86-64 be a consumer-level 64-bit solution? by HuguesT · · Score: 1, Troll

    That's the question I have.

    The article says x86-64 will make possible servers that will be 4x cheaper than the current Sparc/Alpha/SGI crop. That still translates into the $5-10k range, at least at first.

    On top of that you'll need more memory (programs will be larger and will *require* more HD space and RAM).

    Altogether I don't think even x86-64 is for the mass market. In a few years maybe, if it's a success.