Microsoft's newest operating system, Windows Vista, is scheduled for general release in early 2007. The release has been delayed several times and has missed the holiday season buying binge. Rumors about free upgrade vouchers have surfaced, but currently remain just that – rumors. Either way, if you're planning to buy a PC before Vista is released, here's what you need to know if you want to upgrade.

First, let's take a look at the different versions of Vista that will be available.

Windows Vista will come in five editions, each designed to fit the needs of different user groups:

• Windows Vista Business for organizations of all sizes;
• Windows Vista Enterprise for large global organizations with highly complex IT infrastructures;
• Windows Vista Home Basic for basic home users;
• Windows Vista Home Premium for more advanced home users; and
• Windows Vista Ultimate for users who want the system's best business, mobility, and home entertainment features.

Vista will also offer two different user interface options: a basic experience for entry-level systems, and a more visually dynamic experience called Windows Aero. Computers running Windows Vista Home Basic or those without the hardware needed to run Windows Aero will use the basic user interface. According to Microsoft, Windows Aero is the "best-designed, highest-performing desktop experience. Using Aero requires a PC with a compatible graphics adapter and running a Premium or Business edition of Windows Vista."

If you’re planning to buy a new PC before the launch of Vista, Microsoft offers some tips on making sure you can use Vista when it arrives. Look for the "Windows Vista Capable" or "Premium Ready PC" designation.

A Windows Vista Capable PC includes the following minimum features:

• a modern processor (at least 800MHz);
• 512 MB of system memory; and
• graphics processor that is DirectX 9 capable.

If you want to be able to use Windows Aero, you’ll need to choose a Windows Vista Capable PC that is designated Premium Ready or a PC that meets or exceeds these Premium Ready requirements:

• 1 GHz 32-bit (x86) or 64-bit (x64) processor;
• 1 GB of system memory;
• a graphics processor that runs Windows Aero;
• 128 MB of graphics memory;
• 40 GB of hard drive capacity with 15 GB free space;
• DVD-ROM Drive;
• audio output capability; and
• Internet access capability.

Learn more about Windows Vista at www.microsoft.com/windowsvista.