Hardware Requirements for BIM Software
Building information modeling (BIM) has been making a big impact in the structural engineering, design, architecture and construction worlds since the software has become fully developed over the past decade or so. However, that big impact on processes and profitability is matched by an equally big impact on computing resources! Slow networks and computer crashes can be immensely frustrating even when you’re surfing the net at home … but especially so when you have a deadline to meet. It makes sense to ensure that all the benefits of BIM are not lost in wasted productivity, waiting for computers to reboot or a terminally slow connection to send a file. We look at the hardware you’ll need to effectively support your 3D modelling software.
Operating system
Most 3D building modeling software is designed to work on a Windows platform. While Mac-based programs are available, their operation is not always as easy and efficient as on a Windows-based computer. The best software will be compatible with Windows 7 as well as Vista and XP.
Memory requirements
RAM is one of the components of the system that will have the most impact on the performance of your 3D building modeling software. Most systems will operate well, depending on the size of the actual model, with between 4GB and 16GB of RAM.
Memory branding is also important – look for trusted computing brands when you buy your memory, or ask your IT specialist for a recommendation based on quality, not price. It will pay for itself many times over in responsiveness and speed of the system!
32 bit / 64 bit
While many building information modeling software products will work with 32 bit systems, 64 bit is ideal. All of the components should be 64 bit to gain the benefits, including:
- The operating system
- The drivers
- The graphics card
- The software
Processors
A minimum of a dual core processor is recommended to run most 3D building modeling products. Often you will find that there are separate processes running within the same program, so multi-core processes give an enormous speed benefit. If you tend to run other applications at the same time, a quad core processor is recommended.
Processor speed should be as high as possible.
Graphics cards
If your building information modeling software uses OpenGL for rendering, as many do, check that your graphics card has good support for the process. NVIDIA graphics cards are common throughout good quality desktops and laptops now, and they tend to work well with OpenGL. Obviously the graphics card will be a critical component of how well the 3D model displays.
Your graphics card should also support the use of two different monitors.
Hard disk
A minimum of 150GB space is recommended, and a 7200 rpm speed for your hard disk. Best performance will come with space of up to 200GB, and ensuring you have a SATA or SAS drive.
Monitor
In order to visualize the structural engineering details properly, two 24″ monitors are recommended. A single 24″ monitor would also work (although would be less efficient), and smaller sizes are not recommended.
These requirements aren’t often discussed – but trying to work with the minimums in every field will greatly reduce the efficiencies and the cost savings that construction software makes possible.
