PC configuration for CS3

[Brendan Coots]

First of all that processor is NOT dual core. Hyper-threading is just a little trick that allows multiple apps to access the CPU at once, but it is not (and will never match the performance of) a true dual-core processor.

Second, I would step up to a true dual core machine. This HP model is very outdated (2004, almost an eternity in computer time) and you could get much better for fairly cheap. That amount of RAM and the video card are fine, but the computer itself is a bit dated.

[Steve Roberts]

… and try to get XP Pro. Reports indicate that if you have the choice, avoid Vista for professional graphic apps.

[John Vanaman]

Thanks! Great info

I work at a university and can get PC’s at great prices, but they use Dell as their provider. Any thoughts on Dell machines for this kind of work?

J

[Kevin Camp]

dell used to make some pretty good higher end machines several years ago…. but i haven’t kept up much with the latest pc developments, i’ve been in a mac shop for several years now… although i’ve read great things about their more recent high end displays.

Kevin Camp
Designer – KCPQ, KMYQ & KRCW

[Brendan Coots]

My studio uses Dell displays exclusively, even on our macs, just because they are so nice and much cheaper than Apple’s displays.

As for workstations, they have some decent options. My only gripe is that they use cheap components, and support is a joke. In general, I would recommend going for the Inspiron 530 or better (ideally an XPS 410 or better), if you can afford it.

[Steve Roberts]

From what I’ve heard, Dell’s consumer support is not good, but I’ve found that their business support is great.
Two-tier? Yes.

… but if you buy a business system as a business, you should be golden.