3) A 64 bit OS is a must have.
Windows 7 64-bit is the best OS to run X3 on. X3 will ship as a 32 bit application.
The main reason to go 64 bit is that your extra memory will be used by the OS and other applications making your system faster when dealing with large models in Chief.
CA and most other software is moving to 64-bit rapidly
why buy a 32-bit PC that will be out-dated soon ....
get a minimum of 4 GB and 8 GB would be even better
don't wait for Chief if you need a PC now, get one that will be good for
the next 4 - 5 years
Lew