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CAD computer

3/3/19       
Tim Valuckas  Member

I am a retired cabinet maker-millworker-CAD detailer. I am starting to do some freelance shop drawings using AutoCAD LT 2019. I need to upgrade my computer and would like some advice on what are basic requirements. I know I should have 16 GB of RAM . I am thinking about graphics card and processor. Prefer a desktop system, so monitor will also be needed. Had a good IT person @ last job that handled all the technical stuff.

3/3/19       #2: CAD computer ...
Paul Member

I only buy Dell computers now, as the HPs burn up before their time. My oldest dell is more than 18 years old.
Something that is expandable, with graphics card. You can choose what you want to put in it at Dell. I'll never get another one of those "pretend its a desktop", when its just a laptop in a box, not expandable. https://www.dell.com/en-us/work/shop/deals/desktop-all-in-one-deals

3/3/19       #3: CAD computer ...
Cadre

Unless you are going to be providing 3D modeling and working with Solids, you really don't need an expensive, state of the art system. I have worked off a MSI workstation for the last 5 years and it is fantastic. I do work in 3D with solids so mine is set up for this but the system was much less than a comparable Dell. I love Dell, especially as they are just up the road from me but have found that they can be pricey for what you get. For ACad LT any reliable system with a decent amount of RAM and a mid range graphics card will work just fine. A gaming computer on sale is a good value. ACad is dependent on clock speed as it does not take advantage of multiple cores. The additional cores are good if you use multiple monitors and run other software at the same time. I ran AutoCad LT and Standard on an old MacBook for years with no issues at all. It ran Windows 7 in Bootcamp. A desktop is a better value and can be upgraded as you have need and the components that go bad can be replaced easily and cost effectively. Happy hunting.

3/4/19       #4: CAD computer ...
Tina F Thomas

I also use a MSI laptop and have really enjoyed it. I was a Lenovo person for many years and was hesitant to change but it runs autocad 3D great!

3/5/19       #5: CAD computer ...
Leo G Member

If you are using the computer specifically for CAD and have no plans on using it for gaming then go with a Quadro version NVidia card. This card is setup more for a CAD environment than a gaming environment.

Geforce vs Quadro

3/5/19       #6: CAD computer ...
Tim Valuckas  Member

Thanks to all for the feedback. My son reminded me he has an older CYBORGX gaming tower that he no longer uses. So I will check that out as a possible starting point. Has Windows 7 on it. Any advantage to upgrading to 10?

3/5/19       #7: CAD computer ...
Leo G Member

I'd stick with Win 7 for as long as you can. The upgrades on Win 10 aren't worth the spying the computer does on everything you do with the machine.

3/5/19       #8: CAD computer ...
DOM


http://orbitalcomputers.com

3/6/19       #9: CAD computer ...
david wishengrad

ORBITAL C3000 PRO
$23,035.00


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