Changing from 32 to 64 bit, I need some 64 bit help.

[Steven Vollom]

Over the past year I have accumulated the components for a new 
computer.  I will be changing to 64 bit.

Not having a 64 bit system, I have not been paying attention to the 
unique problems 64 bit users have had when installing and configuring a 
Kubuntu OS.  I would like to begin with a stable application, so which 
version should I start with?

*The following is a request for advice on installing new equipment; 
since it doesn't concern Kubuntu, don't use your time reading it unless 
you have the time and/or experience to advise on assembly.
*
The motherboard and case are in transit right now as the last components 
necessary to build a functioning 64 bit system.

The motherboard is a rather sophisticated unit, and I have some concerns 
about assembly.  If anyone has assembled a computer using an ASUS 
Mempipe motherboard would you advise any particular problem I may 
encounter installing the cooling system, or for that matter, any other 
area of concern when assembling a new system?

I have never purchased and installed a new processor, but I am told the 
one I bought generates a lot of heat immediately, so I want to make sure 
I install it properly before firing up for the first time.  There seems 
to be a pre-coated area for contact between the processor and the heat 
sink.  Is that sufficient, or do I need to apply a coating made for that 
purpose?  I have heard of such a procedure.  The processor is an AMD 
quad 9600.

On a rather fortunate last moment bid for some memory on Ebay, I 
purchased 12gb of Axiom ECC DDR2 memory.  I got it all for the minimum 
opening bid, so I have more memory than my board can handle and will 
probably have as much memory as I can use for the first time in my 
life.  The motherboard can handle 8gb.

If my luck holds, I will win the bid on an 800W power supply which is 
suitable for the components I have.  Can I install that after installing 
the other components, or is there a potential hazard in choosing that 
order of installation?

I am a little cautious because I am probably over my head with this 
installation, so should I only start with one 2gb stick, or should I go 
ahead and install all 8gb?  The complicated assembly of the heat pipe 
system of cooling for the memory makes me want to install it all at the 
same time, but I don't know if that is wise.

If I have infringed on the etiquette of this forum by adding this 
assembly information request, I am very sorry.  Please advise so that I 
don't screw up again.

Thanks for any help,
Steven