CPU Specs for 3D modeling

[3dpatient2]

Hello all,

 

I am trying to spec out the best computer hardware to use for large scale planning models using Sketchup, Arc GIS and CAD. I'm looking for the optimal stuff for both desktops and laptops.

 

I'm pretty new at all this so any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[AJLynn]

If by "large scale" you mean "complex", for these programs what you want is machines with good OpenGL performance (but the ability to migrate to Direct3D in a couple years). The factors that will influence this are:

 

-RAM (having enough of it - 2GB with options to upgrade later if needed would be good)

-CPU (this is one component in the actual speed of the thing - you want fast Core 2 Duo boxes, and if you want boxes for high end rendering you want Core 2 Quad or multi-CPU, multi-core Xeon)

-Video Card (this is the other factor in display speed and quality - you can't go wrong with a good Quadro FX, and a FireGL V5xxx or V7xxx would also be good)