Instead of feeling like your jumping into deep, unknown waters, he lays out specifics that affect 3D performance and highlights what to look when considering a graphics card for your workstation. Here are some highlights…
Choosing a graphics card for SolidWorks is not a straightforward process. It depends entirely on the types of models you work with and how you wish to view them. In all scenarios, start off with the fastest GHz CPU you can afford.
Some points he discusses about what affects 3D performance:
- Realview
- Large Assembly Mode
- Vertex Buffer Objects
- Frame Rates
- CPU Speed
When displaying a model, geometry data doesn’t have to be moved back and forth over the PCI Express bus, as has traditionally been the case. This helps minimise the instances when the GPU has to wait for the CPU (as it is often tied up with other tasks) and as a result can boost realtime 3D performance.
There’s also a pleasant comparison of 8 different cards with frame-rate data and GPU info.
I need a quick guide like this. As many of you may be, I’m considering the next hardware upgrade. While I typically stay with one vendor, it’s nice to see what else is available, not to mention learning about what’s important when looking at a GPU for a very specific use.
Disclosure: I write a monthly column in Develop 3D and occasionally have drinks with the editor, Al Dean. I’ve never meet Greg, although I hear he has amazing balance.
