Difference between 32-bit and 64-bit Windows OS

The industrial software application, running the operation for the complicated piece of equipment, I support on a daily basis, Optical Surface Analyzer, is based on the Windows XP 32-bit Operating System. The application is extremely memory consuming, requiring saving huge amounts of data in one process and guaranteeing smooth operation of the automatic robotic laser-based tool. Sufficient memory is essential for that, but developers reached the limit of the memory limitations of the Windows for a single process (which is 2 GB), and even sophisticated manual rebase of the drivers to free the virtual memory interval does not help. Customers are curious how this limit can be pushed forward to expand the tool capabilities. Multiple tests proved that no logical steps in the current framework, like increasing RAM or managing better the virtual memory, can help.

But, there is solution – transition to the 64-bit Windows OS. What is absolute necessity for the industrial professional applications, might not be so critical for the computer home users, unless you also use the heavy memory consuming programs, like games, graphic utilities, or video editing applications. In any case, Windows 64-bit slowly but steadily makes it way to the consumer market.

So, let’s review what the difference is, and how you can benefit from using this next generation OS in in brief questions and answers session:

1. What is the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows?

The terms 32-bit and 64-bit refer to the way a computer's processor (also called a CPU), handles information. The 64-bit version of Windows handles large amounts of random access memory (RAM) more effectively than a 32-bit system.

2. How can be the difference explained a simple way?

Think of your computer as a series of tubes that can either be 32 or 64 bits wide. When you have the smaller 32-bit size, there is more potential for bottlenecks to occur. Bottlenecks slow down your system because one process has to wait for another to finish before it can begin. But if you want to have 64-bit wide tubes, your computer needs to be thinking in 64-bit so your software and hardware all need to support 64-bit.

3. What is the difference in terms of the memory management?

On a 32-bit operating system, you are restricted to a maximum of 4 gigabytes of RAM. On a 64-bit operating system, you really do not have a limit. Normally when you exhaust your physical RAM on a 32-bit system, it has to use virtual memory or hard disk space to pick up the slack. On a 64-bit system, you can install as much RAM as you can to cover your overhead.

4. What are the main advantages of the 64-bit Windows?

•        More RAM. 64-bit versions are theoretically capable of supporting a little over 17 billion GBs of RAM due to the spacious register system. Realistically, Windows 7 64-bit Home editions are limited (because of licensing issues, not physical limitations) to 16GB of RAM and the Professional and Ultimate editions can be extended up to 192GB of RAM.

•        Increased efficiency. Not only can you install more RAM in your system (as much as your motherboard can support) you will also use your installed RAM with greater efficiency. Because of the nature of the 64-bit address system in the register and how Windows 64-bit allocates memory you’ll see less of your system memory consumed by secondary systems (like your video card).

•        Virtual memory allocation. Your computer will be able to allocate significantly more virtual memory per process. Under 32-bit architecture Windows is limited to assigning 2GB of memory to an application. Modern games, video and photo editing applications, and other memory consuming applications like virtual machines, need a lot of memory each. Under 64-bit systems they can have theoretically up to 8TB of virtual memory. On top of the more efficient use and allocation of memory, applications optimized for 64-bit operating systems, such as Photoshop and Virtualbox, are super fast and take full advantage of the spaciousness of the processor and memory afforded to them.

•        Advanced security features. Windows 64-bit with a modern 64-bit processor enjoys additional protections not available to 32-bit users. These protections include the hardware D.E.P., as well as Kernel Patch Protection that protects you against kernel exploits, and device drivers must be digitally signed which cuts down on the incident of driver-related infections. 

5. What are the main disadvantages of the 64-bit Windows?

•        Need dedicated 64-bit drivers. You may not be able to find 64-bit drivers for older but critical devices on your system. For small things that are easily replaced or need to be upgraded anyway, this isn’t a big deal. For mission critical and expensive hardware it is. You’ll have to decide for yourself if the upgrade cost and tradeoffs are worth it.

•        May need a new Motherboard.  You may have a motherboard, which will not support 64-bit processor, or will support an early 64-bit processor but not support more than 4GB of RAM. In this case you’ll still get some of the benefits of a 64-bit processor but you won’t get the benefit that most people crave: access to more memory.

•        Old software issues. Some older software, developed for 34-bit, cannot be easily used on 64-bit. Also, unlike previous versions of Windows, Windows 7 64-bit has no support at all for 16-bit applications. If by some chance you’re still using a really old legacy application for something you’ll need to either virtualize it or forgo an upgrade. Also, just because an application itself is 64-bit, it doesn’t mean that all plugins and extensions for it are 64-bit as well.

64-bit Windows looks really good, isn’t it? But that does not mean that you need to scrap or upgrade your existing computer immediately. Frankly, it all depends on what are you using this computer for. For general day-to-day applications, your hardware and software fill your needs perfectly well. However, if you are computer user, suffering from the memory deficiency, there is solution, and this solution is Windows 7 64-bit.

Sources and Additional Information:

http://www.makeuseof.com/tag/difference-32-bit-64-bit-windows/

http://www.howtogeek.com/56701/htg-explains-whats-the-difference-between-32-bit-and-64-bit-windows-7/

http://www.guidingtech.com/1746/difference-between-32-bit-and-64-bit-windows/

http://lifehacker.com/5431284/the-lifehacker-guide-to-64+bit-vs-32+bit-operating-systems

Symmetrical Face: Funny Online Images Generator

You want to investigate on how symmetrical is your face? Or you just want to have some image fun with no substantial time and thoughts investment? Come to PicHacks and give a try.

The idea is quite simple and straightforward. Simply upload any digital image and PicHacks splits the photo in two pieces and joins the halves for a "Chimera" creation, duplicating the right part, making symmetrical image, and then left part, making one more symmetrical image. So, from scientific point of view, you can see exactly how symmetrical your face is. From pure fun perspectives, you can get quite unusually funny creations. Operations do not require registrations and login, and take less than a minute of your time.

If you want to see how symmetrical your face is, use a forward facing picture with your head held perfectly straight. When placing the midline try to position it directly in the middle of the nose. If you want funny results, experiment with different angles, tilted heads, and placing the midline in different places. Play around with it and have fun.

For purpose of illustrating the service performance, I have located face picture of Angelina Jolie. An original image and two aftermath images are provided below.

Website: http://www.pichacks.com/create.php

If you like PicHacks, you may like the similar sites as well:

• Photofunia
• Deefunia
• Dumpr
• FunPhotoBox
• JPGFun
• Photo505
• FunnyWOW
• PicJoke
• FancyPix

How to prevent Repetitive Stress Injury while working on computer long hours?

Last year, I posted an article on this blog How to keep your eyes healthy while working on computer long hours?, which drew much attention from the blog readers. Per one of the visitors’ request, I am would like to continue investigation the topic of the proper ergonomic arrangement, while working on the computer. Impact on your eyes is just one of the negative factors, you are experiencing, while working on your PC for long hours. How to minimize it and make your work environment as safe as it can be?

Overview

Average computer user performs 50,000 to 200,000 keystrokes a day. Making so many repetitive movements can contribute to the related health issues, and even lead to the significant health impairment in some cases. Uncomfortable seating and awkward wrist movements can also add to overuse injuries. These injuries take time to develop, and extensive computer use can hasten them. Symptoms may include numbness, soreness, pain, fatigue, discomfort and eyestrain.

What is Repetitive Stress Injury?

Repetitive Stress Injury is a kind of catch all phrase for many conditions. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Tenosynovitis / DeQuervain's Syndrome, Tendonitis, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Trigger Finger, Myofascial Pain Syndrome and Chronic Sprain / Strain are some of the actual diagnosis that be diagnosed among computer users.

All of these conditions are serious and in many cases can cause great pain, permanent disability and sometimes loss of employment.

Repetitive Stress Injuries (RSI) occur from repetitive movements involving a specific set of muscles and joints. RSI injuries are the result of an accumulation of stress and strain that causes irritation, inflammation, and eventually pain or other disability. Initially, RSI affects the soft tissues of the involved joint(s). Soft tissues include muscles, nerves, ligaments and tendons. However, if left untreated for long periods of time, the involved joint can become arthritic and form bone spurs resulting in permanent damage to the joint.

The constant demand of keyboarding and mousing combined with the postural stress of confinement in an office chair with one's neck and back held in prolonged fixed positions has resulted in an epidemic of injuries that includes hand pain, wrist pain, arm pain, neck pain, back pain and shoulder pain.

Common Symptoms

The brief list of the common symptoms, associated with RSI, caused from computer use:

• Tightness, discomfort, stiffness, soreness or burning in the hands, wrists, fingers, forearms, or elbows
• Tingling, coldness, night pain or numbness in the hands, especially around the base of the thumb
• Clumsiness or loss of strength in the hands
• Pain in the neck, shoulders, wrists, hands or back that is associated with using the computer

Computer Ergonomics

The work place is often seen as the place with the lowest risk of injury; as opposed to injuries from outdoor activities like basketball, tennis, skydiving etc. This could not be further from the truth. Musculoskeletal disorders that cause great discomfort can develop if the proper ergonomic guidelines are not taken into consideration.

Desktop Ergonomics

If you use a desktop, these are the computer ergonomics factors to consider such as visibility, chair, monitor, desk, keyboard, mouse, for maximum ergonomic benefit.

Visibility

1. Incandescent light is preferred over fluorescent lighting (less strain on the eyes)

2. Glare on the screen and the rest of the environment is not recommended

3. Task lighting is not recommended for computer use.

Chair

The most suitable chair is the one that allows the user to adjust to his/her ergonomic sweet spot. Ensure the following,

1. Backrest or ergonomic back supports provides support for your lower back (lumbar area).

2. Seat width and depth accommodate the specific user (seat pan not too big/small).

3. Seat front does not press against the back of your knees and lower legs (seat pan not too long).

4. Seat has cushioning and is rounded with a "waterfall" front (no sharp edge).

5. Ergonomic-Arm-rests, if used, support both forearms while you perform computer tasks and they do not interfere with movement.

6. Thighs have sufficient clearance space between the top of the thighs and your computer table/keyboard platform (thighs are not trapped).

7. Legs and feet have sufficient clearance space under the work surface so you are able to get close enough to the keyboard/input device.

8. A Footstool is used if your feet are not touching the floor, when your knees at a somewhat right angle

Monitor

1. Top of the screen is at or below eye level so you can read it without bending your head or neck down/back. Place the center of the screen at a 15 degree down angle from your eyes

2. User with bifocals/trifocals can read the screen without bending the head or neck backward.

3. Monitor distance as far away as possible but still allows you to read the screen without leaning your head, neck or trunk forward/backward.

4. Monitor position is directly in front of you so you don't have to twist your head or neck.

5. Glare (for example, from windows, lights) is not reflected on your screen which can cause you to assume an awkward posture to clearly see information on your screen. Position the monitor to minimize glare by placing it at a right angle to light sources or windows.

6. Set the refresh rate at a minimum of 70 Hz to limit flicker.

Desk

Sufficient space is allowed to easily read hardcopy material close to you while working with the computer.

Keyboard

1. Keyboard/input device platform(s) is stable and large enough to hold a keyboard and an input device.

2. Wrists and hands do not rest on sharp or hard edges.

3. The keyboard should be positioned at or below the elbow to keep the wrist aligned with the forearm or at a slightly negative angle. Keyboard tray is recommended for such purposes.

4. Keep your fingers relaxed while typing. Use a soft touch on the keyboard instead of pounding keys with unnecessary force. Relax your fingers and hands between bursts of typing.

5. Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts for applications you regularly use (to avoid overusing the mouse).

Mouse

1. Input device (mouse or trackball) is located right next to your keyboard so it can be operated without reaching and at the same level as the keyboard.

2. Input device is easy to activate and the shape/size fits your hand (not too big/small).

3. Wrists and hands do not rest on sharp or hard edges.

When the mouse is being operated at a distance that makes the operator reach, the shoulder extends forward and the shoulder blade abducts (rotates forward). This position stretches the muscle groups that connect the medial portion of your shoulder blade to your spine and the superior portion of your shoulder blade to your neck. In the short term, this stretch aggravates the affected muscle groups causing spasm, fatigue, headaches and stiffness in the neck and shoulder. In the long term, this position creates a condition called a "stretch weakness" resulting in muscular imbalance, trigger points and chronic variations of the conditions listed in the prior sentence.

Placing the mouse too far away, too low, or too much on one side can cause shoulder, wrist, elbow, and forearm discomfort. When the operator is forced to reach for the mouse, his / her body weight shifts forward and ultimately results in weight bearing stress on the extended arm. Spending prolonged periods of time leaning on an extended arm is an unnatural and destructive posture that will eventually lead to the development of a repetitive stress syndrome; likely resulting disorders would include tendonitis of the wrist, elbow or shoulder.

Computer Posture

Get a suitable, height adjustable, chair.

1. Sit far back in with your back touching the back support.
2. Adjust the height of your chair by its function such that when you 'type' your elbows are at a right angle.
3. Check your feet. Make a right angle with your knees. Are your feet touching the ground? If not, get a foot stool to adjust your foot rest until your knees make a right angle like your elbows.
4. Look straight and your computer monitor screen should be at eye level or slightly under eye level to prevent neck strain.
5. Adjust your monitor's height.
6. Practice good posture; do not slump in your seat.

Frequent Rest Breaks

The body is not designed to sit still, even in correct position, for long periods of time. Some individuals find that using a computer extensively can cause discomfort, so regular pauses are not a waste of time. Change your seated position occasionally, stand up or stretch whenever you start to feel tired. Depending upon your work and environment, you may want to take breaks. It is generally recommended regular breaks from working at your computer for a few minutes at least once an hour.

Basic stretching exercises can help keep limber the joints and muscles you use when you sit at a computer. Some examples:

• General: Stand up and stretch your arms over your head.
• Neck: Tilt your head to one side (ear to shoulder); hold; relax; repeat on other side.
• Shoulders: Slowly bring shoulders up to the ears and hold briefly.
• Wrist: Hold arm straight out in front of you; pull hand backwards with other hand, then pull downward; hold; relax; repeat with other hand.

Sources and Additional Information:
http://www.livestrong.com/article/331613-the-correct-posture-for-working-on-the-computer/

http://www.businessknowhow.com/manage/computer-mouse-injuries.htm

http://www.ergonomics-info.com/computer-ergonomics.html

http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00261

http://ictknowledgebase.org.uk/healthandsafety

http://www.labour.gov.hk/eng/public/oh/DisplayScreen.pdf