switch mode or reload - 32 64 bit 11i 11.11

[Steven Buschman_3]

I haven't been able to find the answer for this, although I'm sure it has been asked before so I apologize in advance for any duplication.

I have a system which is currently running 11i at 64bit. The system is capable of running either 32 or 64 bit, as noted by the output below:
# getconf HW_CPU_SUPP_BITS
32/64

I need to run/test software on a 32bit 11i system, and this system is currently unused. Can I set something on this system to boot it in 32bit mode, or do I need to reload it and choose 32bit initially.
If there is a way to tell it to boot in 32 bit mode, what are the steps?
Thanks,
Steven

[Jeff Schussele · Accepted solution]

Hi Steven,

You'll have to reload from scratch. There's no way to convert mid-stream.
I might suggest you use a different boot disk for this to avoid having to reload again to go back to 64 bit.
You could even leave them both attached & pick your boot device at powerup.

Rgds,
Jeff

[Steven E. Protter]

I think you have to start over. As in reload the OS.

A 64 bit system will run 32 bit applications.

I don't have any good ideas on how to run a system both ways.

SEP

[Steven Buschman_3]

Thanks for the answers.
Not what I was hoping for, but it did confirm what I expected.
I do have extra disks on this system so dual boot won't be a problem, just a lot more time consuming.
Thanks again,
Steven