ATI FireGL V7700 vs. ATI HD4850

[fastman]

I am looking to build my step-dad a system with some older stuff that I have.
The primary use would be for CAD-CAM stuff.

I have a old ATI HD4850 that I no longer use, but know it isn't the best solution for this type of work.

I found an older ATI FireGL V7700 for sale. Would that be a better solution given its age?
Can the drivers for the V7700 be installed on the HD4850 giving it better performance for CAD over the standard drivers or is this a pipe dream?

It's been a long time since I have done any reading up on this type of issue and would appreciate any guidance.

Thanks in advance.

 

[gilljoy]

why not give it ago with the 4850 and see how it works?

not gona cost you any money and it could work well?
if it doesnt work buy the firegl v7700

 

[fastman]

Yeah I could, but would rather see him get the best performance. I would sell the 4850 to offset the cost of the V7700 if it was a superior card.
Looking for knowledgeable opinion thanks.

 

[gilljoy]

Yeah I could, but would rather see him get the best performance. I would sell the 4850 to offset the cost of the V7700 if it was a superior card.
Looking for knowledgeable opinion thanks.

nps hope you get sorted

 

[3DVagabond]

What price are you getting the v7700 for and is it used or new?

 

[fastman]

What price are you getting the v7700 for and is it used or new?

Unknown price or if it is still avalable. The card would be used.

 

[3DVagabond]

Well, drivers make the pro cards run much better in 3D apps than gaming cards. This card is pretty outdated though. Doesn't support the latest OpenGL or Dx. I'd be inclined to look for something newer if you could. Really depends on your budget. That said, I wouldn't be surprised if it were still faster in 3D apps than the 4850. I don't have a comparison at my fingertips though.

The 7700 is still available from newegg for $175. Do you have a budget in mind?

 

[fastman]

Well, drivers make the pro cards run much better in 3D apps than gaming cards. This card is pretty outdated though. Doesn't support the latest OpenGL or Dx. I'd be inclined to look for something newer if you could. Really depends on your budget. That said, I wouldn't be surprised if it were still faster in 3D apps than the 4850. I don't have a comparison at my fingertips though.

The 7700 is still available from newegg for $175. Do you have a budget in mind?

No budget in mind other than getting him the best bang from my old stuff.

 

[3DVagabond]

Well, in the end, to decide what's better to do it's going to depend on the price of the 7700. If they're both free, then the 7700 would likely be the better way to go.

 

[wwswimming]

a good 4850 (made by a good manufacturer, with mature drivers) works fine with CAD and other 3D programs.

i don't follow the FireGL model #'s. i would test it before buying it unless it's new in box.