RAM is used to temporarily store information, program code and resultant data.
The workstation needs lots of RAM. But How Much?
Well before that question is answered, you first have to decide on the operating system.
Linux is out unfortunately – Most high-end Software Applications like Photoshop, AutoCAD, Inventor, Solidworks, Pro-Engineer all run optimally on the Windows operating system. (Apple machines, of course run Photoshop like a dream, but not all CAD programs fare so well.)
So now we are down to Windows 7 – 32-bit version and Windows 7 – 64-bit version.
If you have an older version of your main application software you may be forced to use Vista 32-bit or Vista 64-bit. Unfortunately Windows XP is no longer officially available.
So, if you are using the 32-bit version of Windows, the maximum RAM that the machine will see and use will be 3Gb. Some motherboards will only allow the system to see 2Gb. There is no point in purchasing more.
The optimum Operating System is Windows7 – 64 bit if your software is compatible with it.
This will see and use as much RAM as you can throw at it. The more RAM you have, the more code and data you can keep in fast volatile RAM memory and the faster the machine will be. The minimum for a 64-bit operating system is 4Gb.
I recommend a total of between 6Gb and 24Gb. The exact amount will depend on the motherboard and CPU that is chosen.
The technical specs. of the RAM will also be determined by the CPU and the motherboard. It should certainly be DDR3 type.
RAM also get’s hot. Very hot. So high-performance RAM usually has a heatsink built on to each module. Gamers and Overclockers often purchase special cooling fans specifically made for RAM modules. This would be overkill on a graphics workstation.
Please Note: All the above comments are to be taken with reference to High-End Graphics and 3D CAD Workstations. They may or may not be applicable to General-purpose or Gaming Machines.
