If you haven't decided to migrate to Linux, by now, and you want to use Microsoft's Vista, whenever it arrives, you'll need to allow a Microsoft cop into your PC to run an anti-pirate check.

You'll also have to meet, "some pretty specific and arcane requirements, including memory bandwidth of at least 1,800MB per second," CNET News has the company saying.

Before Vista will display Aero, its "showiest side," it'll run a check, "to make sure the software was properly purchased," the story has Microsoft declaring. "Those who are not running genuine Windows will not be able to take advantage of the Windows Aero user experience."

A product guide said Vista will include a tool for showing if a given system is up to snuff, "but Microsoft did not offer further details on how consumers with existing PCs will be able to see if their machines meet the standard."

Standard?

Aero calls for a graphics chip with a Vista-specific driver, "as well as a varying amount of minimum graphics memory, depending on the size of the monitor," CNET states, going on:

"A computer with a single display of 1280-by-1024 pixels or less, for example, must have 64MB of graphics memory. For a larger screen, 256MB may be needed, as well as additional memory for secondary displays."

According to tentative Microsoft guidelines, you'll need:

"1. A legitimate copy of one of Vista's higher-end versions: Home Premium, Business, Enterprise or Ultimate

"2. A Vista-specific (WDDM) graphics driver

"3. A minimum of 1,800MB per second of graphics memory bandwidth

"4. Enough graphics memory (amount needed varies based on monitor size)."

A PC with shared memory would also work with Aero, but it would call for 1GB of dual-channel memory, with at least 512MB of that memory available to the main system, adds CNET.

Wonder what other tasty surprises Bill and the Boyz have in store?

Also See:
CNET News - Vista won't show fancy side to pirates, April 13, 2006