It is that time of year – time to buy yourself some hardware to go with that software. Do yourself a favor, and contact Micrographics so we can offer you the correctly specified computer.
Luwayne Solander is our Hardware specialist and can advise you on the different options available at their respective prices, and whether the components are in stock.
Most of you know me as a Revit specialist, and I would like to offer you my thoughts on the sort of computer you should think about if you are involved on projects that require more than the usual entry-level computer. If I would have what my heart desires, then these thoughts would guide you.
DESKTOP OR LAPTOP
If given the option, I would go for a desktop computer every time. It is relatively cheaper, upgradeable, and faster, but, unfortunately, not as easy to cart around. If you need to be mobile in your work, then you will have to invest in a laptop. A 17” is large and bulky, but still allows on to run the large GUI’s with relative clarity. A 15” travels easier, but is cumbersome to work with unless there is a large screen to plug in at the destination.
RAM
16 GB should be the minimum you specify, but you will come short on a project of any decent size. I prefer a starting minimum of 32 GB on larger projects, and 64 GB if the projects are very large and multiple programs need to be run. If you are into automation using Dynamo on large models, then go for 64 GB as Dynamo uses up all the ram when it runs. I have had to wait 10 to 20 minutes for scripts to complete using 32 GB. You could even go for 128 GB.
GRAPHICS CARD
This is dependent on what you plan to do with the computer. A Quadro card for CAD or a gaming card for Revit and Lumion? Quadro cards are much more expensive but invaluable on large CAD models like petrochemical installations and chemical plants. I think the Nvidia GeForce RTX 2070 Super offers good value for money if are using Revit and Lumion and do some CAD on the side.
HARD DRIVE
I would have a solid-state 2GB M.2 card and three 2 GB external drives (one can be stored off-site for redundancy). Two to write images of the computer on alternate weeks, and one to back up individual files.
CPU
I would go for a fast processor (Revit loves fast processors and generally only uses multi-core processing when rendering).
SCREENS
My preference would be three or preferably four 24” screens. I would not like 4K screens but rather ones with a fast refresh rate.
INTERNET
Symmetrical uncapped 100 Mbps.
UPS
If you are running a desktop rig, then an Uninterrupted Power Supply is crucial. I have seen too many files and installations go corrupt with power failures.
PRINTER
My preference is HP. There are many options suited to whatever your needs may be.
If you need help specifying and acquiring the correct hardware for your software, please contact Micrographics so we may be of assistance.
