Thanks everyone for the help.  I have just now been able to get online to read it.  During my last visit my phone line went dead and was not fixed till this morning. (when it rains it pours!)

I have no idea why this system came with vista 32 bit, the cpu and all supports a 64 bit OS.
I have to have these apps: 3DS Max, Zbrush 3.1, Poser 7, and photoshop.  What I would like to know is this:  Are there those of you out there running these apps on Vista 64 or Xp pro64? How do they do? I am seriously considering switching the OS to a 64 bit since the machine will support it.

MachineClaw: thanks for the Zbrush link.

I don't know what UAC is but I will find out.  martial: I have Karpersky 7, you have Zbrush and Poser 7 on Vista 64, thats good to know.  They work fine? no problems?

I think my problem with installing  may be with this UAC thing.
 
Dual boots an interesting idea then I could check out how each OS performs.  I really want to switch to a 64 bit OS this machine comes with the drivers for both 32 or 64 on a CD.  Any advice?

. 

A HOMELAND FOR POSER FINALLY