A processor, that can store 64-bit numbers. The no. of bits denotes the number of data & address lines (wires) connected to the PC. This lets you attach larger size of hard-disk, and also improve performance. It is the modified form of the 32-bit processor but is more efficient and faster than the previous. In order to get maximum result more than 4 GB memory of the computer is necessary. It can process a data based on more than 18.3 quintillion numbers. Still performs two times better than the previous while in the previous micro processors only 4.3 billion numbers could b processed.
64-bit processor can run a 32-bit operating system too, because these are backward computable and with the 32-bit counter parts.
How 64 bit processor works
It works as a basic component to coordinating the computer. It provides more expanded space for the address. These processors give more input and output access to hard disks and the video cards of the computer. In just a single operation it can move 64 bits data in memory storage and immediately stores in the CPU. In 32-bit processors only 2^32 while 64-bit processor can process two times more address numbers because of its capacity up to address 2^64 numbers. In 64 bit registers up to 16 terabyte physical memory. But it is interesting to know , that the 64-bit processor can run both 32 bit operating system and 64 bit operating system too.
How to Use 64 bit Processor on 32bit OS?
Running a 32 bit OS on 64 bit processor requires some special features. The operating system is required two flavors in the C library and some other libraries and it should be in the file system. Most of the applications are 32 bit, and running in this case the code separation is not maintained in many cases. The applications must have capability to work with 64 bit processor and it does mostly, it works fine with 32 bit operating systems but still there are some applications which are made only for 32 bit processor and are unable to work with 64 bit processor. Although the operating system is no more than just an foundation layer. Hut the number of files are not enough in 32 bit operating system with adequate hardware support. For game lovers mostly there are many issues while using games because many games do not run at all and some run very slow.
Itaniums can’t run 32-bit OS. Intel CPU’s with EM64T or AMD Athlon 64’s/Opterons can. 32 bit processor can run only half of the registers of a 64 bit processor so it makes the computing ability limited it wastes the potential of the processor in computing and the limitation will be same as on a 32 bit processor. Mostly it depends on the applications one is running. Still almost all necessary codes work fine it is not unable to run the whole collection of the codes. But still the hardware like graphic card sound card and other need a compatible programming to function accurately.
Disadvantages:
In many aspects using a 32 bit operating system on a 64 bit processor is not so good to work like
- The purpose to manufacture the 64 bit processor fails by using 32 bit application like in graphics because it can not put those effects for which it is designed for.
- In high resolution applications like 3D games it becomes very slow with pauses
- It denies to run many applications and those can run only on a 64 bit operating system.