Running a 64bit program on a 32bit os

MrSpock2002 · Sep 6, 2007, 03:01 AM

Is that possable?

I only ask because Unreal 3 is coming out in November. I'll be buying it. But it's coming out with both 32bit and 64bit versions. The 64bit version will have better textures.

I do not want to buy a 32 bit version for my current XP machine then have to re buy a 64 bit version when I upgrade to my new machine.. Though I'm thinking that will be the case anyways..

I know 32 bit programs can run for the most part fine on a 64bit os.. But never heard of it the other way around.

Please advise

ChaosMinionX · Sep 6, 2007, 03:05 AM

Yes. 64bit runs both 32 and 64bit programs.

The only problem you run into is when a program needs a 64bit driver, and if it only has 32bit it wont work. As well with Vistax64 if the driver isnt digitally signed, it can be a pain in the ass.

Ignore this

PandaZ3 · Sep 6, 2007, 05:24 AM

I think you misread Mr. Spock's post

I don't think it will work, I think the 64 bit program will only work if all the drivers are for 64 bit and that won't be the case with a 32 bit OS.... but you knew that didn't you!

It makes me happy as I have XP64 on one macine and Vista HP 64 on this one and my Crossfire rig ...is it going to be DX10? .... I'd be sucking pondwater there

ChaosMinionX · Sep 6, 2007, 05:28 AM

Yep I read it wrong, too many numbers lol....

No you cannot run a 64bit program on a 32bit OS.

Sep 6, 2007, 03:01 AM	#1
MrSpock2002 Because I said so! Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: Watkins Glen NY Posts: 542 Rep Power: 0	Running a 64bit program on a 32bit os Is that possable? I only ask because Unreal 3 is coming out in November. I'll be buying it. But it's coming out with both 32bit and 64bit versions. The 64bit version will have better textures. I do not want to buy a 32 bit version for my current XP machine then have to re buy a 64 bit version when I upgrade to my new machine.. Though I'm thinking that will be the case anyways.. I know 32 bit programs can run for the most part fine on a 64bit os.. But never heard of it the other way around. Please advise

Sep 6, 2007, 03:05 AM	#2
ChaosMinionX USB 3 dot oh Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Boston, MA Posts: 1,911 Rep Power: 47 System Specs	Yes. 64bit runs both 32 and 64bit programs. The only problem you run into is when a program needs a 64bit driver, and if it only has 32bit it wont work. As well with Vistax64 if the driver isnt digitally signed, it can be a pain in the ass. Ignore this __________________ ::Heatware:: How you can help DriverHeaven by using Digg! Last edited by ChaosMinionX; Sep 6, 2007 at 05:29 AM.

Sep 6, 2007, 05:24 AM	#3
PandaZ3 HardwareHeaven Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2002 Location: Cornelius, Oregon Posts: 419 Rep Power: 0	I think you misread Mr. Spock's post I don't think it will work, I think the 64 bit program will only work if all the drivers are for 64 bit and that won't be the case with a 32 bit OS.... but you knew that didn't you! It makes me happy as I have XP64 on one macine and Vista HP 64 on this one and my Crossfire rig ...is it going to be DX10? .... I'd be sucking pondwater there __________________ It has to be Plugged In? To electricity? Video cards in house, 5770, 4650, HD 3870, X1950 XTX, X1900 XTX, X1900 XT and X1900 Crossfire, 2 X1800 XT's, X850 Pro, X800 Pro, AIW 9600XT, 9600 Pro, 9550 SE, 9200, 7000. XFX 6800 GS Last edited by PandaZ3; Sep 6, 2007 at 05:47 AM.

Sep 6, 2007, 05:28 AM	#4
ChaosMinionX USB 3 dot oh Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Boston, MA Posts: 1,911 Rep Power: 47 System Specs	Yep I read it wrong, too many numbers lol.... No you cannot run a 64bit program on a 32bit OS. __________________ ::Heatware:: How you can help DriverHeaven by using Digg!