New computer and NO old problems I wish...

[N-drju]

Hello everyone and especially Planetside Team,

In just a few days I'm planning to get myself a new computer. Preferably notebook of some sort, so I'm not dependent on a "family" computer.

I used Apple technology for some years now but frankly I'm disapointed with it for more than one reason, so I'll just go with good ol' Windows OS. My question is mostly if Terragen 2 (or maybe 3 in the nearest future) has any particular system requirements when it comes to graphic card? From what I remember - not really. Another issue - will 6GB RAM do, or better make it 8? Last but not least - Windows 8 should be okay, n'est-ce pas?

In general could you please help me to sort out what system specs would be best to get TG running so I don't run across some old-new problems like low memory errors, overheating problems or other failures that I even fear to think of? I'd like to hit the bulls eye because new notebook DOES cost something y' know.

[Hannes]

I'm not a computer specialist at all, but I can tell you one thing. The more memory the better! I have only 3GB of RAM and it works surprisingly good, but in some cases TG gets awfully slow when I have a lot of objects in my scene. So if I would buy a new computer I would at least put 16GB RAM into it.

[kaedorg]

Windows 7 works fine.
Never tried W8
I do confirm that RAM should be your priority.
Second should be the CPU.
Check for motherboard with 4 slots accepting up to 4 x 8GB RAM

David

[pokoy]

I'd also recommend more than 8GB, it just adds some open space that you'll probably use at some point. My TG renders here never used more than 6GB but 8GB is likely to be a limit one day. Make it 16GB and you're safe, and make sure you have some free slots in case you need to add more.

I have made an interesting experience here with my new PC when compared to the old one. The new CPU has almost the same GHz/core (~2.5 GHz) and more cores, but the newer CPU architecture makes a huge difference. In numbers, my new PC should be around 2.5 times faster than the old one, but its more recent architecture makes it even speedier. So whatever you do, make sure to invest money into a more recent CPU as well.

[masonspappy]

Agree that more memory is better. I have 8 GB and frequently wish I had 16 GB.
AMD processors are cheaper but you will get better performance from an I5 or I7.
As an fyi, Intel just announced a new batch of processors last week (don't recall if they are still I7 or will be known as I9). They will be pricy but will also be the fastest processors available and that counts because rendering takes place in the CPU, not the video card. 
If the PC only comes with 1 Hard Drive (which should be SATA, not PATA) , then splurge and get a second drive - back up all your stuff to it. I learned the hard way to do this several years ago when my hard drive crashed and I lost all my assets.
Best advice I can give: don't be afraid to spend on the hardware. Get the best you can and it won't go obsolete nearly as quick. 

[archonforest]

Go with 8Gb or more if u get the dough
I used TG3 on Win 8.0 and got some crash out of it. Not sure what was the problem. But watch out as there is a newer Win 8 and at my workplace we had issues with the new one. Like a software wont run on 8.1 but runs on 8.  Thx Bill...
Anycow... regarding CPUs...the more u have the less time u will wait for the picture
Ohh...make sure u buy a good brand like Asus...etc. so u have a good amount of guarantee and services...etc

[Oshyan]

Intel's new CPUs are only a small speed increase from the previous ones (for equivalent price). However the prior Haswell generation may now be a bit discounted, which is something to consider: more bang for your buck. The difference really is small.

Definitely get as much RAM as you can. If it has to be a laptop, then try to get one that can accept up to 16GB of RAM, even if you only get 8 to start (but I'd certainly advise not starting with less than 8 if possible).

- Oshyan

[N-drju]

Hm, my first thought was to get "standard" quad processor core (i7 that is) and 12GB RAM computer. From what you guys suggest this seems to make sense. I never really considered such issues as SATA / PATA or the whole drive being blown to smithereens... Boy, I hope it's not going to be THAT bad! I mean, we live in the 21st century of computer experience!

None of you mentioned graphic card, so I guess it's not that critical?

@ David - And are you planning to switch to Windows 8?
@ Oshyan - Do you happen to know any issues or trouble coming from Windows 8? This seems to be the only "choice" when it comes to OS now in stores...

[kaedorg]

No I don't plan to switch for W8 as my computers are also used with a specific software for my bookshop.
I would need to switch 3 computers in a time with an upgrade also for the software.

[Kadri]

I use Windows 8 since it came out.
If you don't mind the metro interface and go directly to the desktop it isn't much different then Windows 7.
Metro is like a ghost operating system interface to me that i don't use.
All our 4 computers have Win8 installed.
I have no problem using it.
But it might be good if you search for any problem related to the programs you use before.

[Oshyan]

We're not aware of any problems running TG3 on Win 8.

- Oshyan