OS decision help please

[HeSaveDave]

I am currently building a new PC. 3.1 ghz, 2GB RAM, Geforce 8800. I need a 64-bit OS. I'd also like to run Media Center. I was wanting to go with XP just to spare the requirements and hassle (somewhat) of Vista. Is there a way to get Media Center to run on Windows XP Pro 64-bit? Or, is there a 64-bit Windows XP Media Center Edition? I'm wanting to use Media Center with my XBOX 360. I am sharing media right now but I like the look and feel of running MC on my 360. Any thoughts on this are appreciated. Thanks guys!

 

[Maximilian]

With brand new hardware you would probably be fine with vista, this ultimate version i have here seems to have the media center program you want.

I dont think there is a 64-bit media center edition, just the normal XP-64 bit and drivers for that are tough to find. General consensus is that 64 bit vista is the way to go.

 

[Rebel44]

I your situation I would buy Vista Home Premium 64bit OEM.

 

[HeSaveDave]

I have XP Home Premium right now but it is not the 64-bit version. Is it worth getting the 64-bit version? I'm really worried about Vista with so many people having problems with it.

 

[EndGame]

Get 64bit Vista either Home Premium or Ultimate and don't worry......been running it for about a year with no problems whatsoever....

 

[HeSaveDave]

Okay, but I'm scared. I'll try it though.

 

[Cutthroat]

Definitely Vista, works great on new hardware. If you have the retail version of Home Premium 32bit you can have MS send you a 64bit disk for $10. Or just get your hands on a 64bit disk and use your retail key.

 

[toadeater]

Originally posted by: HeSaveDave
I have XP Home Premium right now but it is not the 64-bit version. Is it worth getting the 64-bit version?

Only if you have a need for 4+ GB of RAM. There is no other significant performance advantage for most applications. Going to Vista x64 just adds an extra layer of incompatibility/bugs for games and some drivers that isn't necessary unless you do need the extra RAM support.

Free, open source media center for XP:

http://www.team-mediaportal.com/

 

[HeSaveDave]

Wow thanks for all the help so far. Another question: So if I order the 64-bit disc for my XP will it then support dual core CPUs? I need dual core support. Thanks again.

 

[HeSaveDave]

Originally posted by: toadeater

Originally posted by: HeSaveDave
I have XP Home Premium right now but it is not the 64-bit version. Is it worth getting the 64-bit version?

Only if you have a need for 4+ GB of RAM. There is no other significant performance advantage for most applications. Going to Vista x64 just adds an extra layer of incompatibility/bugs for games and some drivers that isn't necessary unless you do need the extra RAM support.

Free, open source media center for XP:

http://www.team-mediaportal.com/

Will that media center extend to my 360?

 

[Robor]

Originally posted by: HeSaveDave
Wow thanks for all the help so far. Another question: So if I order the 64-bit disc for my XP will it then support dual core CPUs? I need dual core support. Thanks again.

Windows XP has dual core support in both 32 and 64 bit versions.

 

[Robor]

Originally posted by: HeSaveDave

Originally posted by: toadeater

Originally posted by: HeSaveDave
I have XP Home Premium right now but it is not the 64-bit version. Is it worth getting the 64-bit version?

Only if you have a need for 4+ GB of RAM. There is no other significant performance advantage for most applications. Going to Vista x64 just adds an extra layer of incompatibility/bugs for games and some drivers that isn't necessary unless you do need the extra RAM support.

Free, open source media center for XP:

http://www.team-mediaportal.com/

Will that media center extend to my 360?

Not according to this post: http://forum.team-mediaportal....?t=31733&highlight=360