You simply don't get 64-bit computing for free, unlike what AMD's propaganda states. You have to spend the money to get the software infrastructure to have a true 64-bit solution.
First of all, the "64 for free" phrase which management has said a few times refers to the processor itself, which is priced as a high end 32 bit processor even though it can do more. Has nothing to do with software. Now, there is OS and software support available and in the pipeline, and it does not look as if there will be too much of a premium if any placed on the AMD64 ports, so yes, you do get a 64bit solution basically for free vs. a Xeon equivalent (please don't quote me prices for servers, that isn't the point).
As far as porting goes, you've hit upon one the biggest selling points of AMD64--the ease of porting to it from x86. It took one programmer one week to port all of the latest Unreal game. One guy, one week. Sure there's testing that needs to be done afterwards, but it just isn't this massive undertaking that you're trying to suggest. Makes great FUD, though.
You have to spend the money to get the software infrastructure to have a true 64-bit solution.
You're getting AMD64 and IPF confused.
Do you really believe there are a lot of customers saying they want 64-bit servers (or desktops, for that matter) but don't want to spend any money getting 64-bit software?
The point is not about "getting" software, it's about porting it; since there's little or no premium for AMD64 software, cost is essentially the same as for 32bit. And yes, I do believe there are alot of customers who would like to upgrade to 64bit in the easiest, most cost effective way possible. That's why I'm here.
