 - A 64-bit processor is a microprocessor with a word size of 64 bits, a requirement for memory and data intensive applications such as computer-aided design (CAD) applications, database management systems, technical and scientific applications, and high-performance servers. 64-bit computer architecture provides higher performance than 32-bit architecture by handling twice as many bits of information in the same clock cycle.
The 64-bit processor is backwards compatible with older applications and operating systems; it detects whether an application or operating system is 16-bit, 32-bit, or 64-bit and computes accordingly. This is essential for enterprise situations where purchasing new software is not feasible.
Intel, IBM, Sun Microsystems, Hewlett Packard, and AMD currently develop or offer 64-bit processors.
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Learn more about Rack mount server and x86 hardware |
| Before upgrading to quad-core, consider your applications: The new quad-core chips are designed to increase performance, but not all applications need -- or can use -- multiple cores. |
| HP x86 servers beat out Dell, IBM on customer satisfaction: According to Technology Business Research, when it comes to their x86 servers, IT managers prefer HP over IBM or Dell |
| Users sound off: HP or Dell servers: Hewlett-Packard Co.'s is holding its ground as a top vendor in the worldwide server market, but Dell Inc. is a close second. Users say which they prefer. |
| Sun x86 servers turn heads: Too bad you can't get one: Users are impressed with Sun's foray into low-end hardware. But analysts and bloggers say the engineering-centric firm needs to improve logistics. |
| Will Oracle hold a Sun yard sale as the acquisition's value declines?: The Oracle-Sun acquisition has faced EC objections, resulting in massive losses at Sun. Will Oracle sell off Sun assets like Solaris and Sparc or reject the Sun deal altogether? |
| Will Solaris on x86 survive the Oracle-Sun acquisition and Linux?: Will Solaris on x86 survive the Oracle-Sun acquisition? With minimal market share and ISV support, combined with Oracle's investments in Linux, one expert says it's not likely. |
| Roadmap for Sun Microsystems customers after the Oracle acquisition: As Oracle decides what to do with its newly acquired Sun inventory, Sun customers face an uncertain future. This video and podcast interview offer Sun customers a possible roadmap. |
| Predicting Oracle's plan for Sun assets, the future for Sun customers: What are Oracle's post-acquisition plans for selling or further developing Sun's assets? And how should customers who are invested in Sun products respond? |
| Optimizing server energy efficiency: Learn how to improve server energy efficiency in your data center by optimizing the main components that impact a server's overall power consumption. |
| LAST UPDATED: |
27 Mar 2007
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