stupid noob question

ugly ferret · 28 Dec 2012 at 14:54

I've just got windows 8, and it won't let me install the 64 bit version, I just get an error message saying the 32 bit architecture of the os isn't compatible. I have a 64 bit cpu. I'm upgrading from xp 32 bit and I managed to get the 32 bit version up and running but I want the 64 bit version! Do I need to reformat first? (i've forgotton how to do this lol!)

Cheers!

Mr-White · 28 Dec 2012 at 14:56

Are you trying to upgrade your o/s from 32-bit to 64 bit, if so you'll need to do a complete re-install.

MW

ugly ferret · 28 Dec 2012 at 15:03

Yes! How do I do that again?

Mr-White · 28 Dec 2012 at 16:13

Did you download Windows 8 or is it a dvd and did you buy the full version or the upgrade ?

MW

Ceryndrion · 28 Dec 2012 at 16:17

If you are running the upgrade version, then you are pretty much stuck, like for like..

ugly ferret · 28 Dec 2012 at 18:35

Ceryndrion said:
If you are running the upgrade version, then you are pretty much stuck, like for like..

Argh, that's rubbish! Yes, it's the retail dvd upgrade version. Can I not even get around it with a clean install?

ugly ferret · 28 Dec 2012 at 20:08

Ok, and I just realised that it now means I can't use my 8GB ram and am limited to 2gb. Is there anyway around this other than purchasing the oem 64bit version? I have the 64bit disc, can't I just reformat and then install from the 64bit disc?

Please someone, help!

anything I don't mind · 28 Dec 2012 at 20:21

There are ways around that involve installing the trial rtm version and then upgrading that i think.

If you search for the main windows 8 thread there is details in that.

nightmare99 · 28 Dec 2012 at 20:30

Argh, that's rubbish! Yes, it's the retail dvd upgrade version. Can I not even get around it with a clean install?

You need to boot from the 64 bit dvd and do a clean install, you will have an issue activating it but if you look in the other win8 thread you can change a reg value to work around this.

Orcvader · 28 Dec 2012 at 21:43

1) Back up all personal files
2) Insert install disk
3) Go into BIOS, change boot order to disk
4) Pick the partition with the current install

The installer should detect the "old" install and upgrade fine with the key.

ugly ferret · 29 Dec 2012 at 18:50

Cool, i'll try it out tomorrow and report back.

Thanks for the help!

ugly ferret · 30 Dec 2012 at 16:03

Sorted!! Just booted from the 64bit disc and did a clean install. Worked perfectly, no activation issues.

Cheers guys!