According to an article from MSFN (Microsoft Software Forum Network), Microsoft has announced the availability of a beta version of their 64-bit Windows operating system.

Official information on the 64-bit Beta can be found on the Microsoft site.

Requirements are:

• Athlon64 or Opteron Processor
• 256MB RAM
• 1.5GB Hard disk space
• SVGA or better video card
• CD or DVD drive
• Keyboard and Mouse

The download is large, so they are offering a CD if you would rather pay than wait.

If you want the best performance, you should look for 64-bit drivers for your hardware before you upgrade. 64-bit OS+32-bit drivers with 32-bit program will likely not run as fast as 32/32/32 on the 64-bit CPUs.

Good luck, and post your results if you try it.