So I have my laptop (in sig). Its currently running Windows XP Pro. Never did a clean OS reformat when I got but I am not having any issues or anything.

I have the Vista Ultimate upgrade disk from dell.

Is it worth upgrading? If I do upgrade, can I do a clean reformat with the discs that Dell provided?

Thoughts/Comments would be appreciated.

32 Bit Vista is really not an upgrade IMO,

In fact the only reason I would even consider Vista over XP would be for 64 Bit support.

As long as you have your Windows XP install disc I say give it a shot, but don't do an upgrade....it's much better to do a clean install. If you can't format your hard drive because you have important files the Vista setup will copy your system folders (Windows, Programs Files and Docs & Settings) to a folder called Windows.old so you don't even have to worry about losing data.

What I'd like to know is whether Dell has discs with the 64-bit version on them. The only one I have is 32-bit, but the mentioning of 32-bit makes one think they have 64-bit discs as well.

The support of Vista64 on the m1730 is kinda poor.
You really have to fudge around to get everything working, but once everything does run, your good to go.
I removed Vista32 ultimate and installed V64. I don't realy think the performance difference is really worth the work involved. If you have 1/2 a day to "waste" on it, then go for it. You have 4GB of RAM so I see why you would want 64bit OS... like I did.
Dell should have 64 bit discs since they offer it with the precision workstations.

To answer the question - I contacted Dell XPS Support and I should be receiving my 64-bit Vista disc in the mail this coming week, so they *do* have them.

And I want it merely because I'm entitled to it, and if I come into possession of another Dell system in the future, I'll be able to load it.

I would have stuck to 32-bit...there's bugger all difference in performance and the extra hassle for unsupported programs/drivers just isn't worth it...

EDIT: Just reread your post that you aren't going to install it ATM...but I would have upgraded to Vista 32 from XP...most definately worth it IMO...

I disagree as I find vista 64 to be MUCH better than vista 32, on both my desktop and my laptop. Vista 64 feels "snappier", I rarely have any problems with compatibility (except for rhapsody software; I hate Real), and I can address all of my RAM without issue. IF there is a difference in performance between vista 32 and vista 64, I think its in vista64's favor as if nothing else it FEELS faster, even if it is actually getting a slightly less FPS (cause let's be honest you can't tell the difference between 80fps and 78fps.)