Business Computing

[CraigP]

OK, I need some help here.

My dad & uncle run a cabinetry business and are considering running AutoCAD with a Cabinetry mod type deal.
From what I know, AutoCAD is a pretty damn extensive and power-hungry app. I'm guessing if they are about to drop $10K on the program & training, they want a competant computer.
Remember - O/C'ing here is not an option, we want stablity, stablity, stability.

1. Would running duals (P3/Athlon MP) greatly help? If so, which would be better P3 or Athlon MP?
2. NT4 or 2k Pro? I'm guessing 2k?
3. DDR or SDRAM?
4. Definately 512mb RAM or more/less?
5. If Athlon MP's, Tyan Thunder, or wait for the newer MP mobos?
6. If p3's then what's the most stable and powerful mobo out?

I'm sure there's more, but answers/help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[CraigP]

bump ^
PLEASE HELP

 

[DanJ]

My dad runs AutoCAD LT 2000i just fine on his 500MHz Dell Laptop (256 SDRAM)...

..but as for AutoCAD..I'm not so sure. I don't think you'll need some *super* computer to do it. Probably 512MB of SD or DDR RAM would be sufficient (dirt cheap right now).

Windows 2000 definetly.

Probably an Athlon would work just fine (and be relitively cheap), get like a 1.2GHz or something.

PIII's are old tech right now and leave you with no upgrade path...should probably go Athlon as P4's are basically cripalware right now with RAMBUS going the way of the dodo.

That's my thoughts.