Modern gaming computers are extremely powerful, and most of them handle work programs quite well. However, professional PCs possess several unique features that make working with applications easier and faster. Together with HYPERPC, we will explore these features and explain how to choose the right professional computer for creative work.
Number of CPU Cores
Modern games are optimized for 4, 6, and 8 cores. Therefore, gaming PCs rarely include processors with more cores, as such CPUs are very expensive and do not significantly increase frame rates in games. On the contrary, work programs are well-optimized for multi-core processors. They can load each thread and utilize all CPU resources to the fullest. Hence, workstations often feature multi-core processors like AMD Ryzen Threadripper, Intel Xeon, and the latest Intel Core i7 and i9 models.
When choosing a professional PC, the central processor should be your primary consideration. It should have many cores and threads, significantly boosting performance in work programs and applications. This ensures that complex calculations, data processing, and multitasking are handled efficiently. For example, video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific simulations all benefit from having more cores, as these tasks can be divided among the processor’s multiple threads, speeding up the workflow and reducing waiting times.
NVIDIA Quadro Graphics Cards
Workstations are equipped with NVIDIA Quadro graphics cards, which have several technical features such as hardware support for OpenGL and error-correcting code (ECC) memory. These features facilitate working with demanding programs and reduce errors during rendering. The stability and reliability of Quadro cards are crucial in professional environments where errors can lead to significant setbacks and loss of work.
In addition, workstations may also use NVIDIA GeForce series graphics cards with large amounts of video memory. These cards perform well in many professional tasks and almost match the performance of their Quadro counterparts. However, Quadro cards are specifically designed for professional applications, offering optimized drivers and additional features that are invaluable for professional workloads.
When selecting a work PC, consider the line of graphics cards. Ideally, the system should include an NVIDIA Quadro series graphics accelerator. This choice ensures compatibility and enhanced performance with a wide range of professional software used in fields such as graphic design, architecture, engineering, and more.
Large Amount of RAM
Modern games do not demand a large amount of RAM. Even the heaviest projects, such as Horizon Forbidden West, require only 32 GB of RAM. In contrast, professional applications are very demanding on RAM. For example, even 128 GB might not be enough for machine learning tasks. Therefore, workstations typically have a large amount of RAM—at least 64 GB.
When choosing a work PC, determine how much RAM your programs and applications need. This information is easily found in the minimum and recommended system requirements provided by software developers on their official websites. More RAM allows for smoother multitasking, enabling you to run multiple applications simultaneously without experiencing slowdowns. This is particularly important for professionals who work with large datasets, complex simulations, or high-resolution video files, as these tasks can quickly consume available memory.
High-Speed Solid-State Drives
Modern games are very large, and outdated hard drives load files into the PC’s RAM and video memory too slowly. Thus, gaming computers have long used SSDs. However, game developers do not optimize their projects for very fast solid-state drives with PCI-E interfaces. Comparing load times between a budget SATA SSD and an expensive PCI-E SSD shows similar performance. Thus, top-tier storage devices are rarely used in gaming PCs.
With professional programs, the situation is different. Their quality and speed directly depend on the speed of the storage device. Therefore, professional PCs use expensive and very fast high-capacity SSDs. Fast SSDs significantly reduce load times, improve data transfer speeds, and enhance overall system responsiveness. This is crucial for professionals who work with large files or need to frequently access vast amounts of data.
When choosing a work PC, always check which SSD is installed. Ideally, it should be a Samsung drive with a PCI-E 4.0 interface, ensuring that all your files and work programs will load and run quickly.
High-Efficiency Cooling Systems
Gaming components generate quite a bit of heat, but the components in workstations run even hotter. To cool them effectively, professional computers use liquid cooling systems. These are much more efficient than tower radiators and can dissipate heat from even the most powerful CPUs.
Workstations with multiple graphics cards are built using custom liquid cooling systems. It’s impossible to install several graphics cards with stock coolers and fans in one case otherwise. Custom liquid cooling systems are designed and assembled by hand, with each computer having a unique setup tailored to its specific hardware configuration.
Additionally, workstations use nearly silent fans. These fans feature magnetic or hydrodynamic bearings that operate with minimal noise. This is important so that professionals can work without distraction and stay focused on their tasks. A quiet work environment is essential for maintaining concentration, especially during long hours of intensive work.
When choosing a workstation, always consider the cooling system. It’s preferable for the computer to have a liquid cooling system, as it is much more effective than tower radiators.
Summary
A true workstation is built on the basis of:
- Processors with a large number of cores;
- NVIDIA Quadro graphics accelerators;
- A large amount of RAM;
- Fast PCI-E 4.0 SSD drives;
- Efficient cooling systems.
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