Microsoft Opens x64 Upgrades to Retail

[Max[x]]

Vi algures num post, perguntas sobre como iria funcionar o upgrade de Windows XP Pro (32-bit) para Windows XP Pro x64 Edition
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Microsoft Opens x64 Upgrades to Retail

Following confusion surrounding its Windows x64 Advancement Program, which offers a free upgrade from the standard 32-bit version of Windows XP to the recent 64-bit release, Microsoft has clarified the language on its Web site. All users, whether they purchased or built their PC, are now eligible for the 64-bit upgrade.

Microsoft had previously said publicly that any Windows XP user with an x64-supported processor, such as an Athlon 64, may trade in their license for the x64 Edition of Windows XP. But the company's Web site for the program stated the program only applied to purchased PCs with an OEM copy of Windows XP.

The move left many Athlon 64 users who built their PC unable to take advantage of the free upgrade. To make matters worse, Microsoft announced that it would only offer its 64-bit operating system via PC manufacturers and not sell the box on store shelves due to limited driver support.

"Windows XP 64-bit is not gonna be on retail shelves? So how in the world am I supposed to get it," asked on BetaNews reader. "I built a AMD Athlon 64 system for nothing?"

A Microsoft spokesperson said the x64 Advancement Program Web site was updated in response to such feedback. The site now also accepts a Windows XP product key in addition to the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) label that comes with OEM PCs.
at Bink.nu

Microsoft® Windows® XP Profession x64 Edition Technology Advancement Program

Microsoft® Windows® XP Profession x64 Edition Technology Advancement Program

The Technology Advancement Program is designed to assist customers who have acquired a new x64 computer with a previously licensed 32-bit version of Windows XP Professional (1-2 processor version), Windows XP Professional (1-4 processor version) and Windows XP Professional Reduced Media Edition (1-2 processor version). This program allows customers to exchange their license for Windows XP Professional (32-bit)for a license of the new version of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition.

Technology Advancement Program Eligibility

In order to be eligible to receive Windows XP Professional x64 Edition, your computer must have been ordered or built between March 31, 2003 and July 31, 2005 and must contian an x64 processor. You must also have a Retail (Full Packaged Product), System Builder, or OEM version of Microsoft Windows® XP Pro (32-bit) to exchange.
In addition, you must read and agree to the following:

* By participating in this program, your 32-bit version of Windows XP Professional will no longer be licensed.
* The installation of Windows XP Professional x64 Edition requires you to format your hard drive. You must back up your files and settings prior to the installation or they will be erased. Microsoft is not liable for any loss of data as a result of this installation.
* Windows XP Professional x64 Edition requires 64-bit hardware drivers (32-bit drivers are not supported). Drivers for 64-bit Windows are created at the discretion of hardware manufacturers and may not be available for some of your hardware components.
* For the purposes of the End User License Agreement for your existing Windows XP Professional (32-bit) software, your installation of this software will be an “Upgrade.”
* Customers who are currently supported by a system builder or OEM and choose to upgrade to Windows XP Professional x64 Edition via any means other than their PC manufacturer may void support with their PC manufacturer. We recommend that you check with your PC manufacturer's Web site to find out if they offer or support this exchange.

 

[_Rodman_]

Estou a pensar adquirir um AMD A64 aconselham que instale este novo sistema operativo ou nem por isso !? Será que vale apena? Reconheço que estou pouco informado sobre este assunto...

 

[blastarr]

Se tiveres possibilidades, recomendo vivamente o x64, é mais estável e rápido a todos os níveis.
Mesmo em drivers de 64 bit, já há para quase tudo (no meu caso só não tenho aínda para a placa de tv).
E podes sempre correr as aplicações de 32bit lado a lado com as de 64bit.