x64 System, but only x32 graphics?

[Star_M]

I'm not sure if I'm posting this in the right place, and I'm sorry in advance if this is a stupid question, but I'm just more curious than anything (and my curiosity is killing me!)

Anyway, I'm working on this computer right now that is running Windows 8.1, and in the properties for the computer the language used is that it is a 64-bit operating system and an x-64 based processor. So, by that logic, shouldn't the graphics be able to go up to 64 bits, or am I missing something here?

I mean, I don't care a ton, as this isn't even my computer, but this question is really bugging me. Plus, IMO, the screen does look kinda crappy and washed out and could stand to look better. However, when I went to change the graphics properties, no matter how advanced the settings I go to, x32 is always the only setting I can get for the graphics. What gives?

Again, sorry if that's a really dumb question, but I just always figured that 64 bits was referring to the graphics; and, in the interest of learning, I'd really like to know if I was wrong. A GIS wasn't giving me too much, so I figured I'd ask. Thanks for your time.

Heh, I'm not a n00b by any means, but I'm sure I probably sound like one right now ^^:

 

[beers]

What do you think that 64 bit actually is?

There's different driver sets for 32 or 64-bit installations, it won't allow you to install the package in a mixed fashion.

What specific setting are you looking at that indicates x32?

 

[WhoX]

Are you talking about the 16, 24 and 32 bit color depths? 24 bit is pretty much the standard.

As far as the memory bandwidth on the graphics card is concerned, 64 bit is the lowest you will find on a new card. If you have a card with a 32 bit memory bandwidth, then that card is pretty old.

Anyways, if the drivers for the card or the display won't permit color depths beyond 24 bit, there's not much you can do about it. Memory bandwidth is also fixed, if you want something more you'll have to upgrade to another card.