[Ham-Computers] XP Pro SP2 vs XP Pro 64 bit?

[Philip Atchley]

Hi All,

More stoopid questions.  In looking at computer hardware, ready built 
machines as well as "Build to order" machines I've noticed that many of 
the "Dual Core" machines are offering a choice of the Win XP Pro SP2 or 
XP Pro 64 bit, "retail version"  operating systems at the same price.  
One "build to order" machine that I'm seriously looking at is making 
such an offer.

I'm running Win XP Pro SP2 here and am happy with it.  I haven't been 
able to glean a lot about the newer OS, some things I've read indicates 
it won't run older 32 bit programs well, so can I assume it won't run 
the 16 bit at all?  And I could probably kiss ALL my DOS stuff "goodbye" 
completely, or run it on a separate machine (something I'm also 
considering).

It 'seems' that for my usual radio apps the older SP2 version would be 
better.  But this is a MAJOR purchase for me that I don't want to have 
to "upgrade" anytime soon.

So, here are the stoopid questions.  I have quite a bit of time yet 
before I make the actual purchase, it's not getting done tomorrow.
1.  Will the 64 bit run 32 bit (and perhaps 16 bit) programs?

2.  Or should I just stick with the SP2 version of the program? 

3.  Am I wasting money getting a machine with a P4 "D"  820 dual core 
processor IF I stay with SP2?

73 de Phil  KO6BB