Concerning Windows XP 64-bit

[heliotrope]

A search did not reveal an answer to my question within the archives, so I'll ask this:

I'm building a Athlon 64 based system, and I've heard many different things about the XP 64 O/S. Will I be unable to use the processor unless I have a 64-bit O/S, or can it run fine on my current 32-bit edition?

[minibubba]

the athlon64 is backward compatable with 32-bit software, which includes the current versions of Windows XP :)

however, if you want to give 64-bit computing a whirl, there are 64-bit Linux distros available

[Wiggo]

Yes as mini said an Athlon 64 will run 32bit Windows but 64 bit Windows will not be available till sometime next year to the general public.

[heliotrope]

Thanks, guys.