Does anyone know if the 64-bit version of Mandriva has any advantages over the 32-bit version in terms of speed or the efficient use of memory? My computer is running on a 32/64-bit AMD Athlon chip. I'm told its not fully a 32-bit chip or fully a 64-bit chip, but can run both kinds of programs.

To be perfectly honest, this coming from an AMD64 user, I would pick the 32bit version. I'm not familiar with how your processor isn't a full 64bit processor but can still run 64bit programs, that sounds a bit off. But unless your really familiar with Linux, i'd go 32bit. Stuff like flash and java aren't fully 64bit compatiable yet. So they require a walk around after getting your system up.

What CPU does it have? The amd's are a 64 bit chip that run 32 bit...

Advantages... Well ram use especially above 1 gig and extra registers. Some speed advantages, but nothing major. The 64 bit chips run 32bit OS's really well and quick...

Disadvantages... some binary software compatibility (I can't get some stuff like my UPS software to run on the 64bit OS). I have other 32 bit softwre running tho, like 32 bit firefox 1.5... You need to match the 64 and 32 bit stuff which is an extra hassle.

I have mandriva 2006 x86_64 running here without too many problems... Certainly very quick on some things, but not noticeable on normal tasks...

It's actually 4GB of RAM that's the 32-bit limit.

If you use the correct kernel options, but there are odd issues with getting the full 1 gig at times with 32bit. With 64bit you don't have the memory model issues...

That doesn't sound like it has anything to do with the processor type, more like a kernel option called "high memory" in kernel configuration.

Anyone here actually have 4G (or more of ram) that that particular feature of having a 64-bit processor would matter? I know I don't know anyone.

My only point was that with the 64 bit machines there isn't a 'high memory' option. 1gig, 4gig, more, it's all the same...

I guess what I'm asking is if the benefits of a 64 bit systems outweigh the hassles that it seems to have in a world that's not fully 64 bit yet?

I think so yes, the performance that can be gained by using a 64 bit distro is definatly worth it. Especially if your compiling a lot of data or something else that requires alot of computing power.

It depends on the software you want to run. I haven't had too much trouble running 64 bit here, but then the performance increase isn't major for day to day apps. My main reason for going to 64 was to have a look at it and get used to it as it is the future. The change is coming so I might as well go there now as later...