Linux Mint Forums

How do you know when looking at a cpu number if it's going to run 64-bit software? I have an old Dell with an Intell dual-core hyper-threading cpu installed and it won't run 64-bit software. Is there another parameter I need to look for when buying new chips?

I thought that the HT was the key, could it be the MOBO?

It is only a matter of cpu architecture. Check Wikipedia about your cpu, for example.

this post will help you : http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1698732

I think I can safely say this: Almost all Intel multi-core cpu's are 64 bit. It might be the mobo. Post some specifics.

The ubuntu link was worthless. The intell wiki was slightly more helpful but not really. Apparently there is a huge plethora of pentium 4 chips out there and no clear means of determining which does what in terms a non-intell employee would recognize.

I have a computer pentium 4 dual core with HT in one system that runs 64-bit no problem. I have one another with a pentium 4 dual core with HT in another that won't run 64 bit. The only way I can determine which will run 64 in advance is to take the computer apart, remove the heat sink, read the number, look it up? That's stupid!

I found an easier way, just stick a live thumb-drive with 64-bit LM on it. If it says it needs a 64bit cpu and won't boot, then I need to investigate what cpu can be used to make it so.

actually the UB link was on the right track (if you see lm outputed in red is 64bit)
or (look for lm)

additional info >> http://www.cyberciti.biz/faq/linux-how- ... it-or-not/