32 bit or 64 bit Desktop OS for the FrontEnd Traders in Tokyo?

Nowadays, almost all the machines are coming out with a 64 bit CPU, which can very well have Windows XP or Windows Vista or Windows 7 all, available on 64 bit platform. Fortunately they do not cost us a single penny more than what we already spent on them (I mean if you have a 32 bit OS, you can download a 64 bit OS for the same version of software, that you already purchased, for free).



Now, given the above scenario, shall we all move to 64 bit en masse, if our PCs support?

Well, I am a strong believer of the principle, that if we do not need it, let's NOT go for it. So, do we really need it?

Yes, it is true that 64 bit OS can address and manage a large amount of RAM memory on your desktop. Which in turn means, that if you are stuck with a Financial Organization's Frontend Trader's performance issue with a large Excel file, which is updating using Reuters Quote or Bloomberg Quote, it is definitely going to help. But how large amount of memory is large enough for you? If it is upto 4 GB RAM installed in your PC, the 32 bit software can safely handle it upto 3.2 GB of it. Rest of the 0.8 GB will be kind of wastage. But if it is more than that RAM installed on your PC? Well, then it is surely be wastage, if you are NOT using a 64 bit OS.

Well there is one more advantage to use 64 bit OS. If your traders have more than 2 multitasking applications running on your PC, like say for instance, 2 different instances of Excel, Reuters Xtra, Bloomberg Anywhere Terminal, JIJI, JMS and the mail services, your traders defiitely need a 64 bit OS, for more smooth switching between applications. Keep it in mind though, that if they do not freuently changes the application, the 32 bit may be suffice for them, at least for the time being.

Another most important feature associated with this 64 bit OS is the Kernel Patch protection, which essentially allows no one to compromise the safety, security and reliability of Windows OS. This has been added to the 64 bit Windows Vista and Windows 7, which will help you protect the Kernel of Windows from any impending attack. But please do remember that you still need the antivirus programmes to play safe, as it is only one of the numerous ways that thehackers or attackers used to exploit.

The disadvantages are that you no longer can use 32 bit device drivers or 16 bit applications. For most of the large banks, that I have seen in Tokyo, I do not think, there are any issue, as most of them are running hardware purchased within the last few years. So, I guess, most of the hardware in today's dealing room in Tokyo, does have 64 bit capable procesors along with 64 bit drivers for most of the devices, including printers.

So, now your problem lies with mostly the vendor's aplications, which might not run as it should on a 64 bit OS. So, start talking to them, asking them the date by which, they will come out with this 64 bit version of their application, so that you can play safe, secure and reliability card with the business owners.

Let me know, what all you are thinking in this issue or what is your take? I am an avid listener.