SW optimal hardware specs 2

[tz101]

My boss has asked me to spec out a new SolidWorks workstation. We regularly work with assemblies having 4,000 to 6,000 components. Plus the intent is that this workstation will also be utilized to conduct FEA analyses. SolidWorks' website recommends the following: Dual core processor as fast as you can afford with quad core benefiting FEA simulation, open GL video card with 1GB VRAM minimum and 2GB VRAM recommended, 8GB 64-bit system RAM minimum, 7200 RPM SATA HDD minimum and solid state drive if speed is critical.

A few questions: How much is too much system RAM for large assemblies and FEA? 16GB, 20GB? Any recommended brands of video cards and warnings of those best to avoid? Any computer manufacturers best to avoid? Better to buy components and build a system myself?

Thanks in advance.

 

[AnnaWood]

https://forum.solidworks.com/thread/64437

https://forum.solidworks.com/thread/63854

Cheers,

Anna Wood
SW2012 SP4, Windows 7 x64

http://www.renderbay.com

http://www.solidmuse.com

http://www.phxswug.com

 

[tz101]

Thank you for posting those benchmark tables. Good information.

 

[DiegoLGraves]

We've had excellent help and results from @xi computer for our last 4 workstations.

Regards, Diego

 

[Mechomatic]

I'm late to the party, but I'll second Diego's endorsement of @xi. 3.5 GHz quad-core hyperthread, 16GB RAM, 4GB FirePro video card, SSD+HDD. We don't have 1000+ components in our assemblies, but stuff saved locally just screams right along in SWx. Stuff saved on our crappy we-don't-have-an-IT-department file server? Not so much. Be aware that, with a decent workstation, the limiting factor can very quickly become the server you work from.

On a side note, the 15-in-1 card reader installed by @xi has been problematic, but the specs are great and get stuff done.

http://www.linkedin.com/in/wapratesi