System configuration for CAD And 3D modeling
I’m an architecture student and an advanced user of AutoCAD Architecture 2009, Revit Architecture 2009, 3ds Max 9, Photoshop CS3, Corel Draw and V-Ray for rendering. I use them for making technical drawings, panels, rendering, and walkthroughs. I want to upgrade my PC. I’ve figured out the following configuration:
- Intel Core2 Duo E8500 3.16 GHz
- Asus Formula Rampage OR Asus P5Q Pro
- Transcend 2X2GB DDR2, 800 MHz
- XFX GeForce 8800GTS, 512MB Alfa Dog OR ATI Radeon HD3870, 512MB
- Cooler Master 600W
Most likely, I’ll be using Windows Vista Home Premium SP1. Kindly suggest any necessary changes in the configuration. What is the cost of a 4GB DDR3 RAM? Is it better? Also, suggest a free but powerful antivirus. My Budget is Rs 45,000 approx.
Nitin Kashyap
DIGIT ANSWERS: Your configuration needs a few corrections. Quad-core processors will suite your work better than a dual-core E8500. An entry level quad-core – the Intel Q6600 which is around Rs 9,000 would be a far better option for rendering purposes. More the cores the better it is for rendering. DDR3 is still a lot more expensive than DDR2 at the moment. The advantages of using DDR3 aren’t visible right now so DDR2 is your best bet.
As far as your selection of graphics cards go, you should opt for the GeForce 8800GTS. Prices for graphics cards have plummeted, so can even consider cards like the ATI Radeon 4850 at around Rs. 11,000. GeForce 9800GTX cards are also available around the same price.
The two ASUS boards you have mentioned use two completely different chipsets. The Formula Rampage is one of the best X48 boards one can buy but it should be a bit more expensive than the P5Q-Pro. Look at your budget and choose accordingly because the P45 powered P5Q-Pro is also a very good board at its price bracket.
If you are going for a Cooler Master, make sure you go for one from the Real Power series. You can also look for power supplies from the other manufacturers such as the Corsair HX620. All the above components should easily fit in your Rs 45,000 budget.