If you bought a new computer recently or if you have been looking for one, you've seen or heard about "32bit versus 64bit", or "16bit compatibility".
But what does it mean for the average appraiser?
This blog will hopefully define some of these phrases and make you more comfortable with the terms. I'd like to present it interview style, with me interviewing myself. I'm sure there's a more professional way to present this but talking to myself feels so right…
Andrew: What does being 64bit even mean?
Andy: Good question, Andrew. That speaks to how much data your computer's processor can simultaneously handle. Appraising software in Windows started out in the 16bit era (Windows 3.1), upgraded to 32bit technology for the last decade or so, and now is beginning to see 64bit technology become affordable/practical for the average PC user.
Andrew: Say again?
Andy: If you think of your computer as a city, with downtown's office buildings as the processor; the number of lanes of your highways leading in and out of downtown would be the 64bit width, and your data are the cars on that highway.
Andrew: Ah, so having more lanes in my highway to downtown means more traffic, and slower right? Would a 64bit computer be slower?
Andy: Well, not really—because with more highways, the intelligent city will also have more parking. That's where RAM comes in. A 64bit computer can handle far more RAM (random access memory, basically elbow room for your software) than a 32bit computer can. So more highway lanes to your city means more cars, with more parking, and makes an efficient city. Having a 64bit machine means more data, more RAM, more powerful computer.
Andrew: Should I upgrade my 32bit machine to a 64bit machine? Or buy a new one?
Andy: Only if you're unhappy with the performance of your current machine. Appraisal software is not too memory intensive so there's often improvements and tune-ups that can make your 32bit machine behave just fine. Filling out forms and delivering reports is much less work for your computer than designing a fighter jet with a three dimensional engineering program.
Andrew: Computers are usually backwards-compatible, right? All my stuff will work fine?
Andy: You'll find that most of your software will still work, but some won't. For example, some 64bit machines don't come built in with a "16bit subsystem"; or a slow lane for your clunker cars (if I'm not DRIVING you crazy with my auto analogies yet). That means that some copies of newer Windows don't have the ability to run old software. I've not seen many problems running 32bit software (the most common software out there in the wild) but there are always exceptions.
Andrew: How will I know how a possible upgrade would affect my office? I have a business to run, I'll have you know!
Andy: Your best bet is to call in to our Technical Solutions department (800-274-8727) and let a tech take a look at the software you have. We can give you advice about what might work and might cause problems if you move to a 64bit computer.
Andrew: OK—hit me with the pro's and con's for my office technician. Don't soften the blow—go full techy on me!
Andy: Pros: MS is going to end support for XP in the next two years or so, so you might as well upgrade to 7 on any new machines and get that OS situated in the network, start getting users comfortable with the new look. Plus, in 64bit architecture, you can stuff up to 16gigs of beautiful RAM in there. Yeah, yeah the kernel-mode virtual addy space is up to 8TB but we're talking Windows user-mode space. Cons: no 16bit subsystem so DOS apps and older 16bit apps are going to flake, the user might have to upgrade to newer sketching/mapping software if their stuff is too old. Also, some 32bit apps have issues; let alone finding device drivers for older scanners/cameras/printers. So search for those before committing to an upgrade.
Andrew: Well, that was informative. You're… something… arencha?!
Andy: Sure thing Andrew. If you have questions, remember to check in with the experts. It's been a pleasure talking with our self.