Hello Forum,

I just downloaded Suse 9.3 (i386 version). When I did the installation, I got a window popped up telling me...

cool computer....but you are about to install 32 bit software on a 64 bit machine. Do you want to continue?

Now I continued and the install went well.

However, I want this to be right. So, should I get the x86_64 version?

I have a Dell Dimension 8400, and I can find nothing that tells me this is a 64 bit system....that doesn't mean it is not of course. The SUSE installation software is telling me it is.

So should I get the x86_64 version (or is there something else to get)?


thanks for any and all assistance,
Mike

From what I understand, the 64bit version is pretty stable now, but you'll lack in a few proprietary softwares that come pre-compiled; flash-player, for instance. (no big loss, it's just used for ads anyways)

Beyond that, I have yet to come across anyone who has said, "Yes, using the 64bit version has improved performance" to *any* degree. If it's just for desktop use, you are probably better off saving yourself the hassles.

ps. if your processor is an intel 6xx series, it's 64 bit. I looked in your system documentation, and it didn't specifiy, but your motherboard likely supports it.

Other uses for flash:
- OddTodd
- strongbad
- homestar runner
- streaming audio (see: Pink Floyd web site, Aerosmith web site)
- entire web sites (see: the EMI-hosted Pink Floyd web site, the Aerosmith web site, a zillion other web sites)
- simple games
- navbars

Annoying popup ads are NOT the only use for flash. You could be missing out on a lot.

Okay, I stand corrected and should rephrase: most flash apps don't concern me

I have it installed anyways.