Processors and Video Cards

[Dave_W]

I agree completely! The key here is solid state drives. When they grow large enough, capacity wise, and are priced more reasonably they will indeed be a game changer.

 

[Eduard]

Solid state drives also have a limited amount of read/write capacity. Search the web for SSD lifespan and you'll find some interesting items. Redundancy mi amigo!

 

[ohkphoto]

I needed a little humor this morning . . . at least I'm a few steps above this guy (I hope), and I learned the hard way about back-ups.

 

[Markmako]

Here are a few thoughts for buying computer gear. I’ve been building my own computers for 10+ years, modifying computers for 20+ years, and programming for longer than that. And I have formal education in computers, including a master’s degree. First – you can never have too much speed, memory, or storage space. Buy as much as you can afford of all three and they will last several years but you’ll need to upgrade in the future as time marches on. While the upper limits of memory might currently be 192GB, it’s difficult to find motherboards that support more than 64GB at this time. (I just recently built a new workstation level computer with 64GB). As file sizes increase from cameras like the D3200 and D800, so will your need to move them quickly, convert them using HDR software, or merge them in panoramas. Make sure that not only your OS is 64-bit but your key programs are properly installed using the 64-bit option such as Photoshop, Lightroom, Capture NX2 and any others. I use RAID storage in my machines but I also regularly backup any data that I have on them. At some point, a drive will fail and your RAID will be worthless. If you can afford solid state drives (SSD) get them large enough to load your operating system and key programs you use – you won’t be disappointed. The speed is worth the cost. Using high end graphics cards moves your images faster than cheap cards so don’t skimp on them either. You don’t need the top of the line video card but last year’s top of the line card is adequate for moving large files and/or video. Your RAM and video card GPU will help you when merging files or even editing them in programs like Photoshop or Capture NX2. Those programs use large temporary files and having enough RAM to hold them will keep your system speedy while you’re doing other things. Finally, always backup your original images/data externally before you do anything with it on your machine…anything less and you risk losing data that might be irreplaceable. Last thought – I’ve had bad luck with HP laptops so I haven’t bought any of their products for many years. I know more people who have better luck with Dell, especially their comprehensive service plans. Good luck and have some fun!

 

[ohkphoto]

Very informative, Markmako, and thank you!