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    64-Bit Strategy

    Discussion in 'Lenovo' started by dropro, Mar 6, 2008.

  1. dropro

    dropro Notebook Geek

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    I'm about to buy a T61, and want to have a 64-bit version of Vista both because I want to get 4GB of RAM, and because I understand that it's generally faster. I've confirmed that all hardware and software I have is compatible.

    I ordinarily would buy the Home Premium version, but I know Lenovo won't factory-install a 64-bit version of that edition of Windows. I have read the clean install guides here, and candidly, I don't have the stomach for that. So here's what I am planning to do, which costs more money, but will save me heartache. I'm curious to know if, setting aside any financial issues, there is any useability downside to this approach:

    1. Order my T61 with the 64-bit version of Vista Business pre-installed by Lenovo;

    2. In the very unlikely event that I later determine that I want access to one of the Home Premium features (DVD Maker, etc.), and a 3rd party application isn't a better solution (and I strongly suspect a 3rd party app will typically be better), then I can do an Anytime Upgrade to Vista Ultimate.

    The only point that would give me pause here is if there are any everyday useability downsides to Vista Business (for example, if it forces you to use utilities that slow down your system, or if it force you to log in differently, etc.).

    Please let me know what you think.
     
  2. ressom.

    ressom. Notebook Consultant

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    Honestly, doing a clean install is not that hard. 75% of the work is in the preparation (backing up data, buying/downloading vista dvd, getting drivers, etc.). Stallen's clean install guide is pretty much idiot proof. And even if you run into trouble I'm sure people here would be happy to help.

    Edit: BTW, Lenovo's factory installed OS sucks. I lasted a total of about 10 minutes on it before I clean installed vista H.P. x64. I couldn't believe that it wanted me to pick an internet dial-up service providor!!! Ha HA!

    Plus a lot of the Thinkvantage stuff is crap.