Any items worth upgrading?

Simon_89 · 25 Jan 2016 at 10:02

Hi guys,

I've had this machine built since October 2012 and since building it I've lost touch in what the latest and greatest is.

Current build is:

Zalman Z9
Gigabyte Z77-D3H
Intel i5-3570K
Samsung 840 Pro 128GB
Xigmatek Tauro 600W PSU
Cruicial Ballistix 4GB 1600Hz dual channel

I'm aware the ram is on the low side and will be going for 8GB in the near future. The machine is mainly used for word processing, streaming media through Plex and used with AutoCAD.

Thanks

ExRayTed · 25 Jan 2016 at 10:06

As you've already said, more RAM will help a lot. A bigger SSD might be a consideration also..

Simon_89 · 25 Jan 2016 at 11:33

I do have some additional storage, 2TB seagate etc...

wam7 · 25 Jan 2016 at 11:42

For what you do, you only need to go to 8gb. That's it.

Simon_89 · 25 Jan 2016 at 22:06

Thanks, I'll get the ram upgraded very shortly!

lee32uk · 25 Jan 2016 at 22:18

You can get a 16GB kit for £60. You will need Windows 7 64-Bit professional or win 8.1/10 if you want to add it alongside your existing ram.

My basket at Overclockers UK:

1 x Ballistix Sport 16GB (2x8GB) DDR3 PC3-12800C9 1600MHz Dual Channel Kit (BLS2CP8G3D1609DS1S00CEU)= £59.99

Total: £59.99
(includes shipping: £0.00)

lsg1r · 25 Jan 2016 at 22:31

Ram, personally I wouldn't go less than 16gb these days, and you don't mention a gpu so maybe one of those if you don't have one as that would likely help in autocad

wam7 · 26 Jan 2016 at 01:13

lsg1r said:
Ram, personally I wouldn't go less than 16gb these days, and you don't mention a gpu so maybe one of those if you don't have one as that would likely help in autocad

I would second that as the RAM is relatively cheap. If you are using AutoCAD 2014 and older then 8GB is fine but for the newer versions or you're using large complex models then 16GB.

theMilitant · 26 Jan 2016 at 22:08

In line with what others have said, my recommendation would be to upgrade to a 512GB or 1TB SSD and 16GB of RAM. If it's within your budget, and the CAD software you're using will take advantage of it, then I'd also recommend buying yourself a GPU.