32-Bit vs 64-Bit Processer/Windows Vista

I copied this from a CNET newsletter. Only wished I had checked it out before I bought my computer, which came with 64-Bit VISTA. 64-Bit Vista won't recognize my cell phone software, thereby denying me the ability to sync any of my data. Major bum!

As if picking out the right computer isn't already difficult enough, there are so many choices, and so many specifications that it can easily make a grown man cry! But never fear, once you've established and recognized your computer needs, it becomes a much simpler task to decide what is best for you and whether it is wise to buy a 32-bit or a 64-bit system. One of your questions that we can immediately address is the 32-bit or 64-bit processor. The good news is the decision is already made for you, as most current computers today are already 64-bit and will run a 32-bit or 64-bit operating system. So now that that's settled, let's move forward on whether to go with the 32-bit or the 64-bit version of the Windows Vista operating system.

Whether you need a 32-bit or a 64-bit operation system really boils down to your computing needs. If you're the average Joe whose computing needs don't require a lot of RAM (less than 4GB), a 32-bit OS will do just fine. It's not only compatible with almost all software applications, but you'll also have almost no issues finding compatible hardware drivers for your system. Now for going to the 64-bit OS, while this is the way of the future, unless the programs you are running now require a 64-bit OS or a whole heap of RAM (4GB or more), or you are doing a lot of 3D rendering, intense graphics, and so on, many of our members said there are probably more drawbacks to running a 64-bit system than there are advantages. While more programs are written for 64-bit systems, the majority of everyday software programs and drivers are incompatible with 64-bit operating systems. 64-bit systems are great for the folks who require it, but for the most part, we the typical computer users are unlikely to notice any gain in performance. Lee Koo Manager, CNET community