More cores and higher speed is better, particularly if you expect to run multiple applications simultaneously or work on large projects. The performance of a processor is a function of the number of cores and the speed it is capable of running which is measured in gigahertz (GHz). As you are typing on the keyboard or working in a software program like Chief, the processor is performing billions of operations each second to understand and react to the inputs. The processor takes inputs from your computer’s RAM and processes them for output.
For best performance, we recommend a gaming class video card with 4GB+ or more of video memory on a Mac, and on a Windows PC NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX series or AMD Radeon™ RX 6000 Series. Gaming video cards do not share computer resources and are designed specifically for 3D rendering tasks used in Chief Architect. While some integrated (Intel) and workstation cards will work with the software, it may run slower since integrated (Intel) cards share computer resources from the CPU and RAM and workstation cards don’t perform well when doing 3D rendering in Chief. Since Chief Architect is a graphics intensive program, the graphics card is an extremely important part of the computer for day-to-day design work. There are a few types of Video Cards: integrated, workstation, and gaming. Video Card (GPU): Also referred to as the Graphics Card or Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), this is the part of your computer that produces the image you see on your screen.Stores data temporarily for quick access by the application Random Access Memory (RAM): Short term storage Windows computers with ARM processors are not supported. Most drawing, editing, and building operationsĦ+ Core Intel i9+ or AMD Ryzen Class Processor Processor (CPU): Brains of the computer, process inputs
Windows 10 / 11: Nvidia GeForce RTX 30 Series or AMD Radeon™ RX 6000 SeriesġReal Time Ray Tracing requires a Windows computer with a Nvidia GeForce RTX or AMD Radeon™ RX 6000 Series video card MacOS 10.15 / 11 / 12: M1 or select Intel/AMD Windows 10 / 11: 2GB Memory with DirectX12 Shader Model 6 support & (1) Dedicated Video card such as Nvidia GeForce RTX or AMD Radeon Gaming cards or (2) Intel integrated graphics 9th generation “Skylake” or newer.
Renders views of the model on screen including reflections, shadows, lighting, and more. Video Card (GPU): Produces the image you see on your screen
Specification needed to run Chief Architect When computer shopping there is no specific price point you should target, but instead there are certain recommended system specifications you should account for. A computer that may seem like a bargain may be impractical for running a 3D program like Chief Architect. The principle of ensuring you have the correct tools in the field, also applies to the tools used in the office. Would you attempt to hang drywall for a whole house with a screwdriver or drywall gun? Although a screwdriver is significantly cheaper, it will provide minimum performance whereas a drywall gun will save you an enormous amount of time and energy. Resources to get you up and running quicklyĬhoosing the right tool for any job is critical.Multi-Tasking – factor in other uses for your computer (i.e.Investing in the right computer will also help ensure that the computer will run future versions of Chief effectively for a longer period of time, making your investment more cost effective over time. Because the software is so powerful and robust, a question we often hear at Chief Architect is “what type of computer do I need to run the software”? Many computers are capable of running Chief Architect however, depending on the specs, some will run Chief much more efficiently. From automated features for quickly creating floor plans, section details, and layouts to photo-realistic 3D renders for visualizing the design, the software is a powerful tool for those with residential design needs.
Chief Architect produces 3D Home Design Software for professional designers and DIY homeowners.