which version should i buy?

[NPS]

Hi I am about to purchase a version of V4 for home use as I use another licence at work. I have an I7 cpu and a gtx 680 Gpu which I believe has 1560 or there abouts stream processors . I mainly but exclusively use it for exteriors/landscape. I would like to also use instances for grass etc. Would you recommend the Cpu or Gpu version for me.

Cheers

[Support]

Hi, I recommend the CPU version as instancing is not available in the GPU version.

[NPS]

OK I run an i7 3770 cpu will an upgrade be usefully in a noticeable way? and what to?
Also if it is not a stupid question, can I have both versions on the same computer so I can swap according to what I am rendering?

Thanks

[NPS]

I have just had a look would a "Intel Core i7-4790K LGA 1150 4.0GHz Unlocked CPU Processor" be an upgrade worthy of the cost in your opinion. Or is there better or does the law of diminishing returns apply?

I guess I should ask which processor would you recommend?

Thanks

[Support]

yes you can run both if you like. First, install the GPU version using the installer not the RBZ and install it in a different folder than the default, like RaylectronGPU. Then install the CPU version using the installer not the RBZ and you can use the default folder. Create 2 shortcuts on your desktop for each one. When you export in Sketchup, it will default to the CPU since it's the last version installed. Just cancel when Raylectron CPU starts to load your model and run the GPU version instead and load the exported file.

Both of your CPUs are not bad, 4 cores 8 threads. But if you can get an 8 cores 16 threads and use DDR4 RAM instead, it'll be way faster.

[Support]

the i7-5960x is expensive but worth it.

[NPS]

Thanks but my wallet just threw up Is there a middle way? Sorry for the dumb questions but I am a designer and find it difficult getting my head around this stuff

Cheers

[Support]

I know, it's an expensive one! the i7-5820K is 6 cores 12 threads, very fast and less then $400.

[NPS]

Thank you, that hits the sweet spot! and unless I am wrong There will be an improvement in skp modelling and navigation, it being CPU based.........win/win

Cheers

[Support]

yes absolutely, and if you can use DDR4 RAM instead of DDR3, it'll be even faster

[NPS]

I am about to order the DDR4 ram. Will the amount of ram make a significant difference, say 32 as opposed to 16? I am not sure how it works so don't want to pay for what I don't need. I am running windows professional so 32 will be supported.


Cheers

[Support]

32 instead of 16 will not make it faster but it will allow you to load very huge models or generate grass for larger areas. You can also make larger resolution renders. I would go 32gb because of all the drivers and Windows, Sketchup etc running