Archicad is a hugely acclaimed user-friendly and effective BIM software application that comes with an array of highly efficient tools. But, setting up the right Workstation optimised for Archicad isn’t an easy task because of the various options available, including 3D or 2D modelling as well as photorealistic rendering and analysis which can put a strain on the hardware. This article outlines the various hardware needs Archicad requires to determine the ideal Workstation configuration for optimizing the efficiency of your BIM workflows.
CPU
It is the Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the key component of every Workstation designs. Selecting the correct CPU for your needs is crucial for maximum performance, and crucial to ensure compatibility with other hardware that you might require. There are two major elements to be considered when choosing the right processor to use for BIM use. The first thing you need to take into account is the number of threads and cores you’ll require. The second factor to consider concerns the frequency of or speed of these processors’ cores.
Archicad is predominantly a 3D and 2D modeling software program similar to other modeling applications, Archicad runs significantly better when using processors with high clock speeds. Processors with higher clock speeds usually come with lower core counts, which can have the added advantage of being more affordable. If the main use of Archicad is modeling you, we recommend an Intel Core or AMD Ryzen based Workstation. Be sure to choose the processor that offers the fastest speeds for clock speed to maximize performance.
If you are planning to carry out other tasks with the system, like rendering on the CPU, you’ll benefit from a greater capacity processor, like the ones within the AMD Ryzen Threadripper range of Workstations. If you are looking for the best computer for ArchiCAD to render on occasion or other tasks, a premium AMD Ryzen 9 solution may provide better cost-per-dollar while keeping high speed for modelling.
If you are planning on GPU rendering it means that the CPU is not needed to produce these images, and consequently, the additional threads and cores of AMD Ryzen Threadripper AMD Ryzen Threadripper will be ineffective. However, you may want to consider a premium processor like AMD Ryzen Threadripper in the event that you intend to utilize more than one Graphics within your system. Read on for more information regarding GPU rendering options.
Graphics Cards
Like all 3D 2D modeling professional applications We recommend using an enterprise NVIDIA graphics card instead of an affordable consumer-oriented NVIDIA GeForce-based alternative. NVIDIA Quadro graphic cards were designed and constructed especially for workflows designed specifically for professionals. They are based on rigorously tested drivers to ensure stability and optimal performance. They also offer features like ECC memory, as well as improved computing capabilities that are extremely useful.
We suggest choosing an NVIDIA Quadro Graphics card that has two to four GB in VRAM (Graphical Memory) for those who use it lightly or those just starting to begin learning Archicad. For heavier workloads, you could require 6+ Gb of VRAM.
If you intend to use GPU rendering using applications like Lumion or Lumion, then the right graphics card with more CUDA cores is an enormous benefit for you. For even greater performance, you should consider going for several graphics cards. GPU rendering can be scaled very well so the addition of a second card of the same kind typically results in a 100 percent increase in performance. It’s also often less expensive than purchasing a single premium graphics card.
Memory
Archicad may require a huge amount of memory system (RAM) to function optimally. It is, however, crucial not to spend excessive memory. The excess memory will not provide any performance advantages, but upgrading your processor or graphics card will give significant improvement. It is vital to balance memory capacity in the sense that insufficient memory will negatively impact performance.
We recommend 16GB of memory for mid-level to entry-level users and 32-64GB for more intensive users. You might also want to expand your memory in case you plan to run several programs at the same time. If you follow these guidelines, that you will need ample memory to ensure that your Workstation runs smoothly and efficiently without overspending your money.
If you already have an Archicad device, we suggest looking into Windows Task Manager while working on your current projects in order to fine tune your Memory requirements further. Contact us right now if require any assistance.
Storage
There are three main kinds of storage that are commonly employed in Workstations in the present. The traditional HDDs (HDD), SATA based Solid State Drives (SSD) and NVMe Solid State Drives (NVMe SSD). HDD’s are a great value for money , and have the biggest capacities for storage drives, however they’re very slow in comparison to SSD’s. SSDs with SATA are higher priced than HDD’s however they are more efficient than an traditional HDD. SSDs with NVMe use PCIe technology instead of SATA in order to move data, making them the fastest and most efficient alternative, by a large amount. There is a cost that you pay to get this performance, however the performance boost has made them the most sought-after drives in the present.
We recommend a dual-drive configuration, which includes either one of a SATA SSD as well as an NVMe SSD in accordance with your budget. The SSD is used for an operating system that is your main one, application and projects files. The traditional Hard Disk Drive should also be used for long-term, cost-effective large storage. This configuration has been very popular with Workstation users because it provides an excellent value-for-money and huge storage capacities, while providing exceptional performance.
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