Studio MX vs 64 bit

Hello to all.. We're looking to upgrade our home PC, but the 32bit vs. 64bit has us stumped right now. This is mostly because of trying to run older software, specifically Macromedia Studio MX, vs 2004. I can't seem to find anything that shows where this software will even function on a 64 bit platform, or if there is a workaround if running on a 64 bit system. For the type of web design and usage right now, it's not worth upgrading the Dreamweaver software, but I do need the current (2004) software to function. I think I already know the answer, but I'm just looking to confirm what I think I already know.
Any other thoughts about 64vs32 systems before we commit would be awesome. I really want to make this the last PC purchase for a long while..

I don't think that the x86/x64 question is going to be an issue here so much as the fact that from what I've read, MX 2004 didn't run happily on Vista x86 either. You may get it to work, but... I've used every Dreamweaver version since 4.0, and the old releases weren't exactly what I'd call "stable" even when running on platforms they were certified for. Losing a bunch of code because the IDE crashed at an inopportune time isn't my idea of a great time.

Some editions of Windows 7 support something called "XP Mode" which is supposedly a virtual XP environment. It would likely work for you, but others here can tell you more about it, I've never used it. I'm not wild about running a VM just for one app, especially if newer versions could run on the host OS natively, but I can definitely understand your reluctance to upgrade Studio, for a multitude of reasons.

WebsterNY, welcome to the forums! I believe that I have the answer for you! You have two options, if you have Home Premium, there's one really good one. Since you have 64 bit, you need at least 3GB RAM to do it with. Go to the black bar where the forum options are listed, click "Search", type "vm lite" w/o the quotes. Make sure you check threads, not posts, there's an option there. About the second or third thread, you will see one titled "XP Mode in Windows 7 w/o Hardware Virtualization". Click on it, the first post will give you the instructions. The first file (VMLite), you will need to register for to download. The second, XP Mode, you just download. There is also a tutorial to download. For best results, and not having to burn a disc, download both files first. The second is a large one. Then, install the first one (VMLite). It will ask you permissions to execute things along the way, do so. Then when VMLite asks for the file or disc, the second option on the list is to show the file to install (XP Mode). It will take a few minutes, then it will be a VMLite & a IE shortcut on your home screen. I don't know what the IE shortcut is for, just use the VM Lite one. Once everything is done, you will see a familiar XP Pro screen inside of your Windows 7 screen. Update it just as you would a regular computer, install the AV of your choice in it, it would be a good idea to install Malwarebytes in it also. When you're updating, there will be the WGA screen, it's all legal. When you shutdown, don't do so the way you do your PC. Just close the browser, then close the VM at the top right (just as you close your browser). This saves the state of the VM, and when you start it up, that's where it will return to. Now, if you have Pro, you have a second, and easier option, it's free also. The program is called Windows Virtual PC, available from Microsoft. Being that it's from Microsoft, I won't type instructions unless it's necessary. WebsterNY, I hope this is of help to you. I've built VM's from scratch, supplying my own OS, but this is the best option for you, if you have Home Premium. You don't pay anything for it, except your time. Get back with me should you need any further instructions or help, I'll be glad to help if I can. And if it does work, please let us know that too, so that it will help others. I've poured two months into trying to find solutions for these programs that won't run on 7, and would like to hear some positive feedback. Don't worry, you won't have to buy a computer for a while.