What computer configuration is best for Photoshop and web/graphic design

Hey guys, what kind of computer should I buy?

I want to run Photoshop CS and work in Flash too. I heard that AMD is better than Intel and it costs less so I want to go that route cause I can save a few bux. I am new to web design (used PS on a Mac before but I know I dont want a Mac)

There might be some technical minutia to debate here regarding which processor runs a partical app better, but essentially, pick the one that runs the operating system the best, since that is what the software will be relying on to get it's work done.. Beyond that, I don't know that you would really tell much difference of a few milliseconds here and there...

My 2 cents, I could be wrong, of course...

I have to agree with Clay. It seemed to me that getting the absolute "cutting edge" CPU could almost double the price of a system, and the only way to actually see the increase in speed was to run a benchmarking program. That may be a great way for companies to sell computers, but all I care about are real world experiences.

Anyway, the system we are running in our office comes from these guys:

< http://www.customperfect.com/Base-Models/GraphicDesigner/cle arcase/>

I went ahead and got the 2 gigs of memory and the extra hard drive. Turns out that the extra hard drive can be setup as a scratch pad type drive (where the data is worked on) so it never gets fragmented. Not sure how to explain it, but it works great. It's very fast and of course we wanted the 10 year warranty so we were not screwed in the future.

I'd rate a PC in this way: CPU, MEMORY, VIDEO CARD, HARD DRIVE.

That's just my $.02

I like intel. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. :)

ha ha ha ;)

I'd go Intel to be 100% safe. Adobe Premiere Pro, for example (according to an Adobe tech anyway) needs an Intel cpu. If there are people running Pro on Athlon cpus, I'd like to know, because the Athlons are somewhat cheaper, and you get more bang for the buck IF your applications work on the Athlon. In any case do not get a Duron or Celeron.
Peter cowie
wrote in message

Hey guys, what kind of computer should I buy?

I want to run Photoshop CS and work in Flash too. I heard that AMD is

better than Intel and it costs less so I want to go that route cause I can save a few bux. I am new to web design (used PS on a Mac before but I know I dont want a Mac)

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I haven't used anything other than AMD for years now. Currently running an AMD (Athlon)XP 3200+, 2.21 GHz, 1 gb ram, 2-80gb HD, dual 21" monitors on XP pro system. I use PS7, Illy10, Dreamweaver/Flash/Fireworks MX, 3D Max and Softimage. Often run PS, DW, Flash & FW at the same time. I haven't had any problems and haven't seen or heard anything that would make me consider changing to Intel. Hope all the feedback helps you out.
It still comes down to a matter of personal preference in the end.

wrote in message

Hey guys, what kind of computer should I buy?

I want to run Photoshop CS and work in Flash too. I heard that AMD is

better than Intel and it costs less so I want to go that route cause I can save a few bux. I am new to web design (used PS on a Mac before but I know I dont want a Mac)

I called up custom perfection and talked to them about the graphic design computer and I think I am going to get one. It seems like a solid machine and I have wanted a clear case ever since I saw one about a year ago. I guess all the lighting and led fans are included in the price so I think I am going to go with red and blue.

I have Photoshop 6.0 do you think I should upgrade to a newer version for the new computer or should I just stick with 6.0? Can I upgrade to 7.0 or now do I have to goto CS? I hear some bad things with CS so not sure if I want to go there.

I guess all the lighting and led fans are included in the price so I think I am going to go with red and blue.

Get a life!

Lose the lights, keep the fans and upgrade to CS.

Whatever you do, don't get a computer with more than one mouse button. I have one of those, and I cannot stand it.

It seems like a solid machine and I have wanted a clear case ever since I saw one about a year ago.

Ask the clerk about emissions. Ask him about the FCC sticker. Don't plan on using a TV or radio, or anything else that is sensitive, anywhere near a computer in a clear plastic case. And if you live in an apartment, make sure your neighbors don't, either.

Blinky, glowing and flashing are fine... unless you're prone to seizures, or if you are trying to get any work done anywhere near it.

plus if your going to do serious graphic design work etc. you dont want other colors etc distracting you. So go boring and make your work exciting : )

Josh,
What bad things have you heard about CS?

Harvey,

I never thought about frequency issues on a plastic case. Does that include Acrylic? Could it interfere with cell phones? What about window cases? Most computers seem to have windows in their cases now and do those pose a similar risk?

We have acrylic cases in our office, but we don't play any radios/tv's in the office (life's not that good here) but we always have bad cell reception.

Does that include Acrylic?

Yep.

Windows on the side are semi-nasty (it depends on the wave), but not as bad as if the whole thing is plastic. Plain plastic/acrylic would be euqivalent to leaving all of the computer components lying on your desk. Yes, there are plastic cases that work, but the insides are painted with a very expensive gray goop--which wouldn't be very attractive in a clear case.

You really need to get a radio at work!

I have a glass window on the side of my case. No neon though. :(

Not to worry, Dave, you can add aftermarket neon. I think they sell it at Pep Boys.

i'm more interested in adding an after market fan or 2. can't be too cool you know. :)

I think they sell it at Pep Boys.

LOL! Who's the neon guy there? Manny, Moe or Jack?

Harvey,

I managed to talk the boss into it so come Monday were going to be listening to a radio at work. I told the boss it would improve productivity so now we all have to work faster (at least for a couple of weeks) ha ha ha

Guess it will have to be the radio and not CD's because none of us agree on the same type of music. I had no idea how different all of our tastes are! I imagine were going to have a time trying to find a station we all can stand now.

Hope we can get something to come in because we have 5 clear case computers in the office. ;)