The experts at BOXX share this quick guide to choosing the right processors, SSDs, graphics, memory, and more so you can take full advantage of SOLIDWORKS 2018.
With the arrival of SOLIDWORKS 2018 and all of the application’s new features, it may be time to consider upgrading your SOLIDWORKS hardware as well. Begin by asking yourself three questions:
1. How big are my assemblies?
2. How many geometric surfaces do I have?
3. How complex are my parts files?
Based upon your responses, you can formulate a plan.
START WITH CPU CORES
SOLIDWORKS is a lightly-threaded application, meaning that it predominantly uses fewer cores. Since frequency determines performance more than any other variable, a workstation with fewer cores (but higher frequency) is ideal. You can always buy more cores, but why? Additional cores will cost more money and they’re only beneficial if a sizable portion or your work involves rendering or simulation. Since you have an OS, you’ll need two cores dedicated to the OS and two to SOLIDWORKS.
THE NEED FOR SPEED
Rendering and SOLIDWORKS Simulation commonly utilize multiple cores simultaneously, so if you incorporate these applications into your SOLIDWORKS work?ow, a workstation with more cores can provide better performance to complete those tasks faster. In this instance, would adding an additional processor (and therefore more cores) be bene?cial? Yes—but only if your workflow revolves around renderings or simulation.
OVERCLOCKING
Professional overclocking definitely matters because it’s the only way to signi?cantly increase core speed and, therefore, performance. With overclocking, all processes run noticeably faster, your workflow becomes more efficient, you become more productive, and that results in a better overall experience.