Expert: J. B. Borge - 1/28/2009

Question
Hi JB,

I am using AutoCAD 2006 on a computer that is about 2.5 years old. It has a Pentium 4 and 2 gigs of RAM (the maximum amount). Anyway I am in the market for a new computer. This one works fine, but gets painfully slow and frequently crashes when working on bigger drawing files. I work as a freelance draftsperson. I live in Hawaii, and my office is a bamboo structure in my yard. For that reason, I would prefer a laptop (since I can't lock my bamboo office, I have to take my computer into my home each day). Some people have said that I should really be using a desk top. And others have said that I can get a lap top that is robust enough for AutoCAD. My plan is to keep my current lap top and use it for everything except AutoCAD. My new computer will be ONLY for AutoCAD. So, my question is, what are some system requirements that will make sure my computer is capable of handling larger drawing files? Are there any specific CAD considerations with regards to RAM, processor, video card, or anything else? Are there lap tops that can do the job, or should I build my office out of concrete and get a desk top?

THANKS!!!!

Answer
Hey Shaun, I'm assuming you only work w/ 2D graphics. If so, don't invest so much in the video card. Find a reputable laptop (Lenovo Thinkpads) w/ a 'dedicated video card' compatible w/ Autocad. Check here for hardware compatibility:

http://usa.autodesk.com/adsk/servlet/hc?siteID=123112&id=6711853&linkID=9240618

Invest on fastest processor & Hard drive 7200 rpm instead (you can always upgrade memory in the future). I'd stick w/ Intel chips rather than AMD and also stay away from 64bit systems for now.

If you have future plans transitioning into 3D such as Inventor or Solidworks, then i'd recommend purchasing laptop w/ Nvidia Quadro or ATI's FirePro/FireGL.
Personally, i'd rather work on desktops rather than laptops but considering your situation, a laptop is a more feasable solution.

Hope this helps!
JB