Is there a 64-bit version of Edgecam?
The main Edgecam program is a 32-bit application. However, the toolpath generation program has been updated to support both 32-bit and 64-bit (see below).
Can I install Edgecam on a 64-bit operating system?
Yes. Edgecam will install and run on 64-bit versions of supported operating systems. The Edgecam license key driver will have to be installed manually. The driver is available on the DVD. See Installation Guide for details.
What are the advantages of running Edgecam on a 64-bit operating system?
From version 2009 R2, Edgecam's toolpath generation program can run as a native 64-bit application on 64-bit operating systems (Windows Vista and XP). This allows Edgecam to take advantage of the increased memory available on the 64-bit operating system. The improved efficiency of the memory handling can lead to improved toolpath calculation times of up to 50% saving and larger toolpaths can be generated.
Please note that the 5-axis cycle is still 32-bit.
Does Edgecam support 64-bit CAD systems?
From version 2009 R2, Edgecam CAD links support 64-bit versions of the following CAD systems:
Autodesk Inventor 2009 and 2010
SolidWorks 2009
Edgecam continues to support 32-bit versions of these CAD systems. When installing CAD links, choose the 32-bit or 64-bit CAD link installer, as appropriate for your system.
Are there any disadvantages to 64-bit operating systems?
A 64-bit operating system is generally used by engineering and scientific applications that need the ability to address a large amount of memory. As this operating system is less commonly used than the 32-bit version there may be issues with the availability of device drivers for some products. Check that any devices you use do have 64-bit drivers available.
What is the main difference between 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems?
The main differences between the 32-bit and the 64-bit versions of Windows Vista relate to memory accessibility, memory management, and enhanced security features. The security features that are available in the 64-bit versions of Windows Vista include the following:
Kernel Patch Protection
Support for hardware-backed Data Execution Protection (DEP)
Mandatory driver signing
Removal of support for 32-bit drivers
Removal of the 16-bit subsystem
One of the greatest advantages of using a 64-bit version of Windows Vista is the ability to access physical memory (RAM) that is above the 4-gigabyte (GB) range. This physical memory is not addressable by 32-bit versions of Windows Vista.
Depending on the version of Windows Vista installed, a 64-bit version of Windows Vista supports from 1 GB of RAM to more than 128 GB of RAM. The ability to address more physical memory lets Windows Vista minimize the time that is required to swap processes in and out of physical memory. Therefore, Windows Vista can manage processes more efficiently. This memory management feature helps improve the overall performance of Windows Vista.