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32 bit vs 64 bit on laptop [Closed]

lt - Latest answer on Oct 26, 2010 4:06pm BST

Hello, I just bought a lap top with 64 bit and windows vista. I did not realize that my job I have on the side which runs dos programs only runs 32 bit. Is there anything I can do besides return computer?
thanks
lt

Answer

+17

xpcman 7187Posts Wednesday October 8, 2008Registration date ContributorStatus May 2, 2013Last seen Oct 11, 2008 6:45am BST

Do you have a 64 bit version of VISTA or just a 64 bit CPU?

Vista 64 bit will run 32 bit programs it might even run your DOS programs.

Just try them.

me - Dec 17, 2008 11:38pm GMT

if your PC supports it dual boot

Answer

Mel Jan 23, 2009 4:00pm GMT

Just installed HP hdx18t laptop with Vista 64 Ultimate. I need to Run some old win 95 and win 98 programs. They don't work. I have tried all compatiibility options. They work fine on XP pro 32 no compatibility options.

Have you found any solutions to your problem?

Mel...........

mike - Feb 6, 2009 9:53pm GMT

download virtualbox from Sun for free and run a virtual instance of win xp 32bit, win vista 32bit or even just a freeDos system to run your dos programs.

alternatively you can try dosbox, and open source project that run dos programs on other platforms. i know it works on 32bit but i have not tried it on a 64bit system.

some guy - Jan 5, 2010 8:12pm GMT

dosbox works flawlessly on my 64-bit laptop with windows 7 on it

majuu - Jul 14, 2009 10:41pm BST

hi i really need help man i m using vista home premium 64bit laptop i really want to play few old games 1997's game one of the name is dark colony the council wars but its not working on it tell me anything to play it any emulator or any software which help me out regards majid do mail me plz i will wait

Answer

chimp Oct 26, 2010 4:06pm BST

Why not just set your computer up to dual boot 2 different operating systems?

Answer

Brooks! Dec 12, 2008 5:35pm GMT

Microsoft has a free download for Vitural PC. With this program running in your Windows Vista 64 bit environment, you can run a Windows XP 32 bit environment, and launch an MS DOS environment from there. Additionally, you can create as many of these virtual environments as you want.

Unfortunately, Microsoft requires you to have both a Windows XP licience iand a Vista Licence if you are going to run both Vista and XP (even with one in the virtual world). If you own a regerestered copy of XP, I'm told that a work around to this potential problem is to reinstall your virtual XP environment when the preceeding one experies it's 30 day registration requirement.

Good Luck!

Answer

Eudanil 6Posts Tuesday July 14, 2009Registration date Jul 15, 2009 5:17am BST

To run the software that won't run on 64-bit I recommend doing as Mike and many other have said:

"Download virtualbox from Sun for free and run a virtual instance of win xp 32bit, win vista 32bit or even just a freeDos system to run your dos programs.

alternatively you can try dosbox, and open source project that run dos programs on other platforms. i know it works on 32bit but i have not tried it on a 64bit system."

Please do not ask the question again, the answer is already written out for you.

Answer

wendy Oct 6, 2009 1:18am BST

Will Windows 7 solve this problem? I too have old programs that won't run on Vista 64 bit

some guy - Jan 5, 2010 8:15pm GMT

most programs will work but some drivers and hardware won't work unless there is a 64-bit version of the driver available

Answer

Arnob Apr 8, 2010 10:24am BST

try installing Virtual box latest version and then install any 32bit OS in it, this may sort out your issue. returning the laptop is the last option u should go for.

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32 bit vs 64 bit on laptop [Closed]

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