On Mon, 25 Jun 2012 22:38:34 +0200
C
On Mon, Jun 25, 2012 at 10:18 PM, Istvan Gabor
wrote: 1. It is necessary to switch 64 bit opensuse to use 8 GB RAM? My 32 bit system sees 8 GB RAM (in kinfocenter); kernel 2.6.31.14-0.8-desktop #1 SMP PREEMPT 2011-04-16 i686 athlon i386 GNU/Linux.
No, it's not necessary as long as the kernel you are using has PAE enable. If you're seeing more than 3.7 GB, you're probably already using a PAE enabled kernel.
2. If not necessary, what are the advantages of 64 bit?
... ummmm.... for a desktop user, not a lot. You really only see the difference if you're running apps that explicitly make use of 64 bit.
3. What are the caveats? I guess there might be programs that can run on 32 bit system only. Can I run these in a 64 bit OS? Is there some compatibility program?
Some apps are released only in 32 bit versions... Skype for example. To use a 32 bit compiled app on a 64 bit system you have to install the 32 bit libs that the app depends on. openSUSE repos provide most of the libs. It's only rare/unusual corner cases where you run into issues.
I never installed and used a 64 bit system before.
I've been using 64 bit for years, and don't have any problems with it other than that for one or two apps I use I have to remember to install the 32 bit libs.
C.
I've been running 64-bit for years, too, and likewise only have to be reminded from time to time that any 32-bit applications I run require the corresponding 32-bit libraries to be installed, as well. Carl -- To unsubscribe, e-mail: opensuse+unsubscribe@opensuse.org To contact the owner, e-mail: opensuse+owner@opensuse.org