Computer Recommendations

[DanaKennell1014]

Hi All,

We are finding ourselves in a situation where we need at least one new computer, fast.  Our deadlines are getting more and more absurd (is anyone else having this problem?), and we have from today until the 6th of February to design 7 miles of roadway on top of a mountain.  We just completed Phase I, which is an access road up the side of the mountain.  This was only about one mile of road, and my computer cannot handle it.  I had to bring in my laptop from home to be able to do the corridor.  Anyways, the best option at this point is to get a new computer, but there is no time to custom order.  I am looking at pre-built systems, comparing them with specs I uncovered here:

http://indydrafter.com/civil-3d-2011-workstation-suggestions/

We are running 2011.  We just don't have to time to upgrade every year, so most likely we'll skip 2012 completely.  Most of the pre-built systems I'm finding that have the speed we're looking for are gaming systems (which is what my laptop is and it was fantastic for working on the corridor).  Does anyone have any recommendations?  I am seeing a lot of CyberpowerPC machines that seem like they would have the muscle, but reviews are mixed, although a lot of the reviews are for custom built machines.  My laptop is ASUS, which I was also looking at, but again, reviews are mixed, and I don't feel I have the knowledge to make a decision.  Any advice, information, etc. would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

Dana

P.S. I am having trouble searching the forums.  Is anyone else experiencing this?  I hit search, and it does nothing.  I've tried selecting Board or Discussions on the drop down, but neither changes anything.

[AllenJessup · Accepted solution]

I'd just search Dell until I found one that would do. Remember to the reconditioned ones, you can get a great price and they ship immediately. http://www.dell.com/us/dfb/p/desktops

The search trouble is a known issue and it's supposed to be fixed in the next update. To search I go up one level and then back down to the board. Then it works.

Allen