PDC is Not Just the Windows 7 Show - Page 2

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Reynolds thinks another element to watch is 64-bit support. Currently, Vista and XP are available in both 32-bit and 64-bit builds. While the difference in bit sizes is irrelevant except to advanced users, there is one difference everyone can relate to: memory capacity.

A 32-bit processor can only read 4GB of memory, and Windows XP doesn't even see that much, it sees around 3.5GB even if you put 4GB in your computer. Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) and AMD (NYSE: AMD) have been making 64-bit chips for some time, but 64-bit has been limited to the server side for the most part.

Reynolds noted that high-end desktops from PC vendors, particularly HP (NYSE: HPQ) have been coming with 64-bit Vista and 8GB of memory. While most 32-bit apps run just fine in a 64-bit system, some need to be ported.

"Most of the time, a 32-bit app runs fine in a 64-bit OS. Those that don't need to be fixed. This is a good place for it," said Reynolds. "Processor support for 64-bit is everywhere, we just need a few years for programmers to catch up. I think the message is 64-bits will be there when they need it."

PDC kicks off Monday with the opening keynote from Microsoft Chief Software Architect Ray Ozzie. Ozzie speaks twice, both Monday and Tuesday. On Monday, he will be joined by Bob Muglia, senior vice president and general manager of Microsoft's server and tools division. On Tuesday, he will be joined by Steve Sinofsky, who is heading up Windows 7 development.

InternetNews.com will have onsite coverage of PDC next week.