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Advice on laptop that can CAD software

Tags:
  • Laptops
  • Software
  • CAD
  • 3D
Last response: in Laptop General Discussion
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September 21, 2014 3:16:20 PM

Hello all

I just started University, studying Civil Engineering and will be using CAD programmes. Therefore I want some suggestions as to what sort of specs I should be looking at if I want it to run AutoCAD 2015, AutoCAD Civil 3D etc.

I know most of the 3D aspects of these programmes are pretty intensive so I will probably use the campus computers for most demanding of tasks but I still would like it if I could do SOME 3D work, even if it is just basics.

Preferably, I wouldn't want to spend anymore than £650-£700 but might stretch if justified.

I have had a look at a few laptops:

1) i5-4210u, 8GB RAM, Nvidia 820m
2) i5-4210u, 8GB RAM, Nvidia 840m
3) i7-4510u, 8GB RAM, Nvidia 840m

Are these any good?? Any suggestions as to what I should be looking at would be appreciated.

Many thanks.

More about : advice laptop cad software

a b D Laptop
September 21, 2014 3:31:26 PM

I don't know what you exactly need but I am guessing powerful CPU, GPU and moderated memory depending on how many works you want to have opened at once. These systems seem fine being the 3rd one the best, 8GB should be enough as well as the Nvidia 840m. However, the "u" model means it's a low voltage (good for battery-life) CPU and if you really need a good CPU don't even look at them. Search for some CPUs ending at "m", "hq" or "mq" if these CPUs you mentioned aren't powerful enough (search for the reqs on google or someone who has used the software before). Also, if you have the budget and the software you'll be using need CUDA Cores you should be looking for a Quadro GPU which are pretty expensive.
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September 22, 2014 2:49:24 AM

Bolin said:
I don't know what you exactly need but I am guessing powerful CPU, GPU and moderated memory depending on how many works you want to have opened at once. These systems seem fine being the 3rd one the best, 8GB should be enough as well as the Nvidia 840m. However, the "u" model means it's a low voltage (good for battery-life) CPU and if you really need a good CPU don't even look at them. Search for some CPUs ending at "m", "hq" or "mq" if these CPUs you mentioned aren't powerful enough (search for the reqs on google or someone who has used the software before). Also, if you have the budget and the software you'll be using need CUDA Cores you should be looking for a Quadro GPU which are pretty expensive.


Okay, thanks for the advice. Found another laptop which has an i7-4700MQ for an extra £50 more than the i7-4510U. I am guessing that for an extra £50 I'm getting a hell of a lot more CPU, right?
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a b D Laptop
September 22, 2014 11:11:54 AM

Yes, that's quite an improvement
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