HPET Mode
Common Options : 64-Bit Mode, 32-Bit Mode
Quick Review
This BIOS option is linked to the HPET Support BIOS option. HPET Support must be enabled for this BIOS option to be active.
The HPET, short for High Precision Event Timer, is a new system timer developed by Intel and Microsoft to replace the four system timers currently in use. Some HPETs have 64-bits wide registers which can also run in the 32-bit mode. This is where the HPET Mode BIOS option comes in.
Setting it to the 64-Bit Mode allows the 64-bit operating systems and applications to make full use of the HPET's 64-bit registers.
Setting it to the 32-Bit Mode forces the HPET's 64-bit registers to run in the 32-bit mode. This allows proper operation when used with a 32-bit operating system.
If you are using a 64-bit operating system, you should select the 64-Bit Mode so that the operating system and 64-bit applications can make full use of the HPET's 64-bit registers. There is no harm in selecting the 32-Bit Mode although it will mean a potential reduction in counter resolution and/or functionality.
If you are using a 32-bit operating system, you should select the 32-Bit Mode.
If you are dual-booting between a 64-bit operating system and a 32-bit operating system and both support the HPET, select the 32-Bit Mode. If the 64-bit operating system supports HPET while the 32-bit operating system does not (e.g. Windows XP), then you can select the 64-Bit Mode.
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