On Sunday 28 January 2007 22:07, Jonathan Berry wrote: > On 1/28/07, Mick Mearns <off_by_1@xxxxxxxxx> wrote: > > Hi list; > > this is off topic. > > > > I was wondering which is better a dual-core x86 cpu or an x64 cpu? > > Which is actually faster/better in "normal" use? > > How about installation problems and hardware cost? > > > > I am not planning any upgrades just yet but am curios. > > Why not get a dual-core x86_64 CPU? All the AMD dual-core chips are > 64-bit and Intel's Core 2 Duo is 64-bit. Personally, I like AMD > better. There is really no reason to get a 32-bit only CPU anymore. > If you don't want to run 64-bit yet, you can still run 32-bit just > fine. And a 64-bit installation gives you the choice to run both. > > Jonathan If the List doesn't mind me staying off topic (it's closer to topic than servicing a Chevy pickup gearbox I think ;-) ):- Next time I build a new computer I'd like to be sure that I can run a Xen kernel with full virtualisation. Then when I occasionally need to poke a little finger into the Dark Side I can do so without having to shut down and reboot, and keep the damned thing backed up so I don't ever need to do a fresh install again. As I Understand It, if I go for an AMD chip I need to be sure to buy one that incorporates technology called Pacifica. Only thing that's troubling me about this is, I can't find any mention of Pacifica in connection with AMD chips in the component shops. Also, I believe I can't do it on this P4 computer because it can only do what is called paravirtualisation, requiring hooks to be added to the guest OS. Which is probably why I could run the 98SE installation CD OK when I played with it but it wouldn't boot. So, List, is the little bit I think I know about virtualisation correct? Are there chips available now that have Pacifica (such as the AMD Opterons) or are they not out yet? Dave -- Registered Linux user number 393408 I use and recommend the email service at 1 & 1 For domain registration, email and web hosting please visit: http://oneandone.co.uk/xml/init?k_id=6389763
