Buying a computer system/PC attributes for number crunching

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Expert: - 3/15/2007


Question
Hi,

I have a basic question that I think confirming. I know about PCs and different components etc.

At work we are about to embark on a project that requires a lot of number crunching. Using MS Access and other comparable products. I am thinking of buying a new machine to help facilitate this - and just need something confirming. To deal with this in the most efficient way I'm guessing I need a machine that has the fastest processor I can afford, as much RAM as I can afford and a big HDD. Other stuff doesn't really matter too much. Can you confirm this? Many thanks.

Answer
Yes, basically you're right, if your application supports SMP I'd go for either a dual core, quad core, or multi-chip solution (like the Dell Precision 690 series).

If your application can be run in Linux or OS X, I'd suggest going that route, and building yourself a temporary cluster of systems to provide even more processing power.

-bob

Buying a computer system

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Bobbert

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I have nearly two decades of experience in IT, computer repair, and related fields and will attempt to provide the most solid, brand-agnostic advice when it comes time to purchase a new computer, or upgrade an existing machine. I can answer anything from the seemingly basic to the downright complicated - and will do my best to provide this information in a clear and concise manner.

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I have been an enthusiast of PC's for many years, and can answer questions about the purchase/use of a new computer or the purchase, installation, and use of upgrades for existing computers. There probably isn't a whole lot related to the home computer that I haven't seen over the years.

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15+ years of experience

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