Q1. In the mid-90s, the leap from 16-bit to 32-bit computing occurred sooner than most predicted. In 2002, the industry finds itself in a similar situation. What parallels do you see between that transition and the one we are about to embark upon with 64-bit computing? What is different?
A. Moving to 64-bit is the next logical step in the never-ending computing power race. However, computing is more complicated today unlike the time when we migrated from 16- to 32-bit. Not everyone today requires 64-bit computing power, so the transition will not be as massive an exodus as it was back then. Having said that, the alluring idea of the AMD Opteron™ processor that gives you 64-bit as well as 32-bit options will mean that more consumers will finally get a taste of 64-bit power…something that was strictly the domain of the enterprise.
Q2. What key factors are going to expedite this transition from 32-bit to 64-bit computing?
A. More products like the AMD Opteron processor which provide 64-bit performance at an affordable price. Also, application and OS support is vital for a quick transition. However, as I said, 32-bit will be around for a while because it adequately does so many things that the consumer wants.
Q3. Who will be the early adopters of 64-bit computing and why?
A. Professionals, workstation users, 3D animation, games developers and, of course, any industry that requires high-end computing power like the medical industry.
Q4. Sixty-four bit computing isn't new to the enterprise, but a 64-bit chip built on the ubiquitous x86 architecture is new. How do you see this impacting enterprise computing environments?
A. There is an obvious impact on the enterprise because you now have more options in terms of OS and software applications. The obvious savings in terms of money and compatibility with older systems is an added boon.
Q5. What will be the first applications to exploit the benefits of 64-bit computing on the desktop?
A. All forms of applications that depend on complex math calculations like AutoCAD, 3D animation programs, etc.
Q6. What are going to be the immediate benefits of pervasive 64-bit computing? What will the average business and home consumer be able to accomplish with 64-bit computing that they cannot do with today’s 32-bit computing infrastructure?
A. Today, serious DIY consumers have some form of RAID running on their systems. These advanced users will be the first early adopters on the consumer/home user front. As for the average home/business user, the benefits of 64-bit over 32-bit will only become clearer as genuine 64-bit apps and OS’s come into widespread use. Clearly, one of the areas of excitement will be VR or Virtual Reality-based apps.
Q7. How will the combination of always-on broadband access and 64-bit bit computing change the PC experience for the average PC consumer?
A. Currently, the broadband experience in Malaysia is still in its infancy. The larger issue would be to get faster and stable bandwidth all over the country. However, once this is established, 64-bit computing will indeed open the door to more demanding online apps like video streaming and more complex online gaming. This will be exciting and will happen in time. But first, let’s get up to speed.
Q8. What developing business, industry and world trends do you think will accelerate the 64-bit computing adoption rate? What roadblocks must be overcome?
A. R&D needs in all fields of science and technology will surely accelerate 64-bit computing adoption. The dream of a truly connected world will only be realized as fast 64-bit computing gets a firm footing across the board. The roadblocks as always will lie in financial constraints, software and hardware development and most importantly changing the mindsets of people who actively influence computing trends in the world. These people must be convinced of real gains in order for a mass leap to take place.
