CPU: 64-bit vs 32-bit DualCore

Hello,

I am planning to buy a new pc for CAD/CAM/CAE. Now, if I have to choose
between two CPUs, which one should I prefer:
1. 64-bit single core or
2. 32-bit dual core HT?

I will mainly use the pc for:
1. office applications;
2. Internet;
3. CAD: small to medium size assemblies, parts with medium complexity
(Solid Works, Unigraphics);
4. CAM: medium complexity NC programs (Unigraphics);
5. FEA: dynamics, statics; medium size models (usually <60 000 elements)
(ANSYS, LS-DYNA).

Best regards,
madz

 

I would go for the 32 bit dual core processor.

Reasoning:
64 bit is immature with 64 bit OS. Many drivers for peripherals such as
printers are not there yet. Running a 32 bit OS on them offers no
advantage.

32 bit dual core can be an advantage to your CAE program as most of those
can take advantage of a multiple processors.

The need for 64 bit processor/OS is only driven by memory. If you can't get
enough in a 32 bit machine now to do the job, then it might be worth it, but
I doubt you have this problem.

Ken

 

Which 32 bit dual core are you contemplating?

 

Why don't you just get the AMD 64 bit dual core anyway? I have an AMD 64
3000+ single core and it rocks. The newest AMD dual cores are a bit pricey
but the slower versions are very quite cost effective for the speed.

And there are no driver issues running windows xp 32 or 2000. And you can
always dual boot if you want to run a 64 bit app like Inventor r11...

 

The 64 bit processor has a big advantage even when running in 32 bit
mode. Because it is 64 bit at heart the data and address pathways to
memory are twice as large and move data much faster than 32 bit can.