Hi to you all

I just did some major upgrades my computer hardware and while doing so I got an Athlon 64 series processor. (Athlon 64 x2 5000+ to be precise.)

Now I'm bit confused whether I should install linux wit x86 or x86_64 architechture. I currently have x86 Debian Etch. The biggest questions in this matter are:
-Is x86_64 really any better than x86?
-What kind of support doest x86_64 have compared to x86?
-Can I run programs made for x86 on x86_64?

Thank you in advance.

-Is x86_64 really any better than x86?
... yes and no. 64-bit can handle bigger numbers and can address more ram. But this can slow down "ordinary" uses.

-What kind of support doest x86_64 have compared to x86?
... the same as any open source project. What do you mean by "support"?

-Can I run programs made for x86 on x86_64?
... much the same as for 32-bit. However, some software does not have a 64bit version (firefox?) and a great body of code is written against 32-bit libraries. There are ways around all this though.

In general - server, or high-eni work is suggested for 64-bit platforms. Use a 32-bit distr for a home desktop. It is unlikely you'll do anything where you'll notice the difference.

I did use 64 bit debian etch on X86_64
There is no media thinge available for that(NO YOU TUBE)
I was able to get package from different repository to watch movie.
Did not find any package for oracle database.

just my 2 cents.

Thank you.