AutoCAD 2004/5 required Hardware

[VERYCIVILDRAFTER]

I don't want to jinx this, so I'll just ask you guys to cross your fingers for me and my little bitty company. :D

We're getting the opportunity (crosses fingers) to upgrade EVERYTHING in my office. I haven't had the chance to work with 2004 yet, and if things work out I have to buy it (or 2005) and Land Development Desktop in the next week or two. Problem is we're “mostly” using AutoCAD R14 on a peer to peer. So I got tons of question for everyone.

What kind of work station does 2005 “require” to be productive? Productive, being the operative word.

Would you buy network licences or single seat? I think this is especially poignant, since network seats cost 15% more than singles now. There’s only 8 of us in the office, but all we don’t use the Land Desktop at the same time.

We’re not 8 people yet... can a Pentium 4 - 2.4 gig, handle 7 people pulling files off of it, and 1 person drafting on it? I’m guessing I’d be pushing it.

If you were going to get a server who’s is the most idiot (me) proof. :oops:

What do you guys think of AutoCAD Subscriptions? Rip off or safety net?
Does Auto Desk really intend to put out an “upgrade” at least once a year?
Could that mean Auto Desk won’t be so concerned with quality control if they just plan on fixing problem at the next upgrade? Just like Microsoft. :P

Any response would be great, or just wish me luck! :D

[Eddie]

8) OK...here goes...and I hope some of the other have some good advice for you aswell...

I recomend getting 8 vanilla autocad license' and a couple on LDD's....all network
That way it won't matter which machine you guys are working they should be able get a license of either product (The advantage of network lincensing).

As for machine specs..I recomend you have a look on the autodesk website for minimum requirements but the P4 2.4 Ghz should be fine...try and get as much RAM as you can especially for LDD.

I recomend you have a dedicated file server not one that is also a workstation.

Autocad subsriptions.....I think is a good idea to have these days..due to constant upgrade realses and service pack ect.ect.

An upgrade every year...that's what I've heard but haven't confirmed...maybe one of the other guys can confirm this.

Hopefully this helps with your decision making.
8)

[csiarch]

V_C_D: I would like to add one suggestion to the good advice from Eddie.

Look into machines based on AMD processors. They have been generally designed with a little cleaner architecture and run a bit cooler and faster because of this.

On another subject, I left you a revised version of Simplex.SHX and a little editable attribute block on CADDEPOT to help you with your flow line symbol question. Did you ever check back?