Is 64 bit Fedora OK? With which CPU?

[Robert L Cochran]

dondi_2006 wrote:

>Hello,
>
>I have to buy a new PC for my desktop. I want to run
>Fedora on it, because I already know it well from University.
>But I am not sure if it is OK to go with a 64 bit CPU or stick
>to 32 bit ones.
>
>What are right now, if any, the limits I encounter in using
>Fedora or FOSS in general, if I buy a 64 bit CPU?
>
>I have not found very recent information, and what I found reinforced
>these doubts. For example, http://lwn.net/Articles/113741/ said:
>
>  
>
>>Given the extra overhead in terms of disk space and memory usage while 
>>running two "editions" of the same libraries, as well as the limited 
>>number of third-party RPMs, is there a case for running a 64-bit Fedora >Core? In other words, are there any advantages of running a 64-bit system
>>on a 64-bit processor, as opposed to running a 32-bit system on a 64-bit 
>>processor? As always, it depends. Unfortunately, it seems that right now, 
>>and for the majority of users, the disadvantages outweigh the benefits.
>>    
>>
>
>Is this still true today, or with next Fedora 5? What are the traps still there with openoffice, java, kernel graphic drivers, flash, kde, gnome,
>whatever?
>
>Also, if there are no traps, what 64 bit CPU do you recommend from the
>power efficiency point of view? Lower wattage, possibility to run slower
>when not doing heavy stuff....?
>
>Thanks,
>Webber
>
>Happy 2006!
>
>
>
>  
>
My Athlon 64 X2 4400 Dual Core is showing every indication of being able 
to roar through compiles at amazing speeds, which is why I bought it. 
The FC4 install on this system seemed to happen with blistering speed. 
The Asrock 939Dual-SATA2 motherboard seems pretty nice too.


Bob Cochran