We are a small business in the process of selecting/upgrading to new software and hardware. While we are small, we do work on very complex projects from time to time. We want to be smart with our money, but invest in equipment and software that will both perform the necessary tasks, and do it quickly and efficiently. Before making this rather significant investment, we wanted to verify that the combination of Revit paired together with Navisworks will allow us to import .pdf and BIM files, deconstruct by layer, add additionall layers, overlay all layers to verify compatibility and identify any conflicts, etc. If I understand correctly, the (2017) Revit with Navisworks "Manage" software should accomplish these tasks.
Secondly, I have reviewed the Revit Products System Requirement tabs for both software packages, however, these requirements are often just minimums. If we are going to spend the money, we obviously want to purchase hardware that will service the business as long as possible. If it makes sense to spend a little more now to upgrade certain features so the programs can run more efficiently for a longer period of time, we are not opposed to that (within reason).
In a nutshell, the system requirements for Revit products suggest 3+ GHz processors with multiple cores and no overclocking; hard drive speeds ~ 10K RPM, L3 cache > 3 MB; a dedicated video card w/ no integrated video support, and at least 16 GB of high speed/low latency dual channel RAM. I don't anticipate it will be that hard to identify several options of desktop computers that will fit these specifications, but I would be very appreciative of any input anyone may have with regards to good and/or bad choices.
The laptop will probably be significantly harder to identify. It seems like laptops with anything over 16 GB of RAM is as rare as hen's teeth, so this may require a specialty company to assemble something that will fit the bill. Ideas? I've heard Boxx tends to be overpriced, but I'm not aware of any other viable options. I am currently looking at either the Lenovo ThinkPad P50 or the Microsoft Surface Book with the Performance Base. I would be interested in the opinions of anyone currently using either of these products with the software mentioned above.
Again, allow me to express my sincere appreciation to anyone willing to take the time to respond with opinions and/or recommendations.
Hi @Anonymous,
Welcome to the community! ![]()
Regarding your first question. Revit and Navisworks Manage would be what I recommend software wise. Which you already investigated. You probably already did a product comparison between Navisworks Manage and Simulate. The companies BIM Manager or BIM Coordinator would, in my opinion, need Manage opposed to Simulate. Also for the clash detection reporting etc.
Regarding Hardware, I had to specify "bang for buck" workstations last week for some of our new users. They would mainly work on Revit, AutoCAD and Navisworks Simulate, with one who will receive another package of Navisworks Manage. The specs below would definitely suffice when working with complex models. This setup also runs on new architecture, so future upgrades to e.g. - the RAM and GPU's in SLi is an option.
I received a budget to work with, so obviously, building a "bang for buck" workstation would depend on the budget which you have to work with.
Yes, Xeon workstations paired with Quadro Cards can be good or will be recommended by some, especially hardware suppliers. They are more expensive and this results in higher profit margins for them. I feel that you then drift away from the "bang for buck" scenario...
HERE IS A POST which revolved around Quadro vs GTX cards which might also help you with your decisions. Another user in that thread was also very happy with his new laptops performance which has a GTX1070 in, so this can form a basis for your Laptop search.
I hope this helps! ![]()
Rudi Roux
MSc | Digital Engineering Manager
LinkedIn
Revit Mechanical & Electrical Systems 2018 Certified Professional | Revit MEP & Architecture 2015 Certified Professional
AutoCAD 2015 Certified Professional | Autodesk Building Performance Analysis (BPA) Certificate
If this post resolved your issue, kindly Accept as the Solution below. Kudos are always welcome ⇘
Thank you for the post Rudi, very useful information. Definitely something I can use to advice my customers.
Additional information, it's not needed, but you can use this link to check if the hardware you selected is recommended for the program you want to use (by Autodesk).
Best regards,
Josha van Reij
Arcadis NV
BIM manager
Hi @JvanReij,
I'm glad it helped and that you found it useful. I've been following, building and benchmarked hardware for almost 2 decades, so it's a hobby which I love to advise on.
I mainly enjoy advising on "bang for buck" solutions as this is also what most consumers require from a financial and practical point of view.
Your link will certainly provide some background to other community members, thank you for that. My only problem is that GTX cards are generally not included, which is a pity, as depicted below. But, Autodesk does acknowledge the fact that other devices might also meet user requirements.
I hope this helps! ![]()
Rudi Roux
MSc | Digital Engineering Manager
LinkedIn
Revit Mechanical & Electrical Systems 2018 Certified Professional | Revit MEP & Architecture 2015 Certified Professional
AutoCAD 2015 Certified Professional | Autodesk Building Performance Analysis (BPA) Certificate
If this post resolved your issue, kindly Accept as the Solution below. Kudos are always welcome ⇘
I am modelling in revit for the past 10 years with large projects and have used several kinds of workstation / desktops. The combination of Xeon processor and Quadro graphics is really my ideal workstation to work on. these 2 components of the workstation is the most critical parts so all the rest can be just the average one if you wan't to save money. try getting xeon 3.0+ and any 4 digit xeon graphics.. I have used the Quadro K4000 before and by far was the best I have used.
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