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What would make processing, rendering, and previewing faster?
Hey guys. new to the forum. I have a question about After Effects. Lately, I’ve been getting into some more intense special effects. But my laptop computer can’t seem to handle them. Like it will now take 15 seconds to render one frame. As a result, I’m thinking of also getting a new PC. So my question is, what features will help the most in the rendering and preview processes of After Effects? More RAM, better video card, etc.?
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3 Replies
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Look at the specs for high end video workstations and compare them to what you think would be a fast machine. They are going to build machines that are made to handle video editing – so I’d follow their model.
Color Grading presets for After Effects, Premiere, etc., plus free presets and more.
LITTLE BLACK BIRD – PROFESSIONAL VISUAL EFFECTS
https://www.littleblackbird.com
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Hi,
While cpu speed and the number of cores are a factor, the thing that gives you the biggest bang for the buck is memory. If you have a multi-core machine, try to install at least two gigabytes of memory per core. For example, I have a 8 core MacPro with 16 GB of memory. In AE CS3 or using Gridiron’s Nucleo Pro rendering plugin, you can utilize all the cores and that extra memory will be useful.
Since AE can only access up to 3GB per core on a Mac or Windows XP (I think it can access up to 4 on Vista) There is little point in getting beyond 3GB per core.
A fast RAID helps, but probably won’t give you a significant speed boost. It might help a little if you use it for your temp files, but my guess is the improvement won’t be noticeable.
I hope this helps,
Lars
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I agree with all of Lars’ comments.
I would only add that you really should have a quad-core machine for AE work. Dual core is more of an absolute minimum. Just remember to heed the advice about the amount of RAM per CPU core. You really should install 2GB RAM or more per CPU core or AE will not be able to properly utilize your numerous cores. Since rendering/processing using multiple streams is a huge speed boost, this is one area that you can’t skimp on in AE.
Brendan Coots
Splitvision Digital
http://www.splitvisiondigital.com
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