AMD 64 Questions...

[superguybob]

So Im looking at building a new machine for some of my gaming needs. Mainly for Battlefield (including Vietnam and the mods like Desert Combat).

At first I was thinking about building a XP 2800+ machine, but then started thinking, and figure out for only about $20 more on the mobo, and about $60 more for the processor, I could build a Athlon 64 system (Athlon 64 2800+)

BUT, I have a couple questions first (im new to PCs going 64 bit, I had a Apple G5 though...)

1) Is the AMD 64 (Socket 754) the way to go? I want something thats going to last a little while (as in I can upgrade when things like Doom 3 come out), and thats why im thinking of going with the 64, since the XP is done with the 3200+ (and I hear that even the 3200 has speed issues with Farcry?)

and

2) What OS goes on the machine? Im assuming I would have to use a 64 bit OS true? And, where the heck do I get it? Obviously, I need to run Battlefield and whatnot...

These might sound like n00bish questions, and I guess they are. I just want to build my machine the right way this time, and have some room for expansion....

[SpookyEddy]

1) I wouldn't count on socket 754 being around for that long.

2) No you don't need a 64 bit OS, standard Windows XP will work fine (although you won't get the advantages of running a 64 bit CPU).

Regards

ed

[superguybob]

If Socket 754 wont be around, what will?

Also, thats sweet about XP. I dont really need to full advantage of the 64 bit, I just dont want to get left in the dust when the Athlon XPs dissapear.
However, if its going to cost too much right now, I might just go ahead with a Athlon XP machine, and just hope that like a 3200+ will keep me hanging for a little bit