Posted by AutoCAD is a computer-aided design and drafting software application. First released in 1982, AutoCAD has been a major help to the architectural and engineering industries. When it was created most computer-aided design programs ran on mainframe computers with users interfacing with separate graphics terminals. Nowadays, though, computers have gotten smaller and more powerful, and you can now run AutoCAD on a laptop. Not every laptop will have the requirements needed to run AutoCAD to its full capacity so finding the right one is important to save yourself time and money.
The Requirements of AutoCAD
The most recent version of Autodesk’s AutoCAD requires a 64-bit version of Windows 10 or Windows 11; most laptops sold now will have this preinstalled. The program’s installed files add up to 10.0GB and they suggest installing the program to a solid-state drive to speed up load times. Any laptop on the market will have at least 10GB of storage. To run the program properly you’ll need to have a processor of at least 2.5-2.9 GHz, but more than 3 GHz is recommended. A good graphics card is also required, as is 1GB of GPU RAM though up to 4 GB is recommended. Finally, AutoCAD requires 8 GB of RAM to run, however with the price of RAM falling in recent years it would be a good idea to get as much as you can afford since Autodesk recommends at least 16GB. The processor, RAM, and graphics card will be the main things to look for when choosing a laptop for AutoCAD.
Peripheries Needed for AutoCAD
Most laptops use touchpads to control the cursor, but for some this can make completing complex tasks on a computer more difficult. An external mouse can help relieve this strain. Much like the ones used for desktop computers, it will plug into a USB port on the laptop and Windows will install its drivers automatically. Although all laptops will come with a screen, it can be useful to purchase an external monitor to have a better view of the program and the work you are creating.
The Complexity of Your Work
Tailoring your laptop for AutoCAD to the complexity of the work you intend to do is important. Beginner users of AutoCAD will be dealing with 2d or 500 or more 3d modules so a weaker laptop could be used. The professionals that work on much larger projects, projects of more than 1000 3d modules, will need much stronger laptops to accommodate more complex work. Engineers usually manage a whole project by themselves of 2500 or more 3d modules – this requires a very strong workstation. By judging where you fall on this scale you can choose the right laptop for you.
Choosing the right laptop can be stressful, especially if you are looking to use it for certain applications. You want to make sure you make the right choice to save yourself time and money in the future. However, if you do the right research, you will be able to find the right laptop for you.