How to configure your workstation for ArchiCAD 26

ArchiCAD is a process-optimized 3D planning software for architects. ArchiCAD features an intuitive user interface with a focus on building data modeling (BIM). Architects benefit from being able to work with a single file from design to implementation planning. Take a look at our hardware expertise:

The right Processor for Archicad 26

Design processes in ArchiCAD experience optimal conditions through a high processor clock frequency. For simple constructions we recommend an Intel Xeon 6-core processor of the W-series from 3.5 GHz, alternatively an Intel i7 7800 with 6 CPU-cores and max. 4.00 Ghz. Since ArchiCAD requires an extremely large amount of computing power for 3D modelling processes and point calculations, care should be taken to ensure that the overall performance of the processor cores is as high as possible. For rendering and simulations we can recommend the following processors: Intel Core i9 10900x with 10 cores and max. 4.5 GHz, Intel Xeon W-2155 with 10 Cores and up to 4.50 GHz. AMD Ryzen ThreadRipper PRO 3955WX with 16 cores, 32 threads and max. 4.3 GHz. To accelerate complex 3D rendering processes, we recommend the use of a business workstation with scalable Dual Xeon processors of the 3rd generation (Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum series) with up to 40 CPU cores per processor.

High-Performance ECC workstation memory for ArchiCAD 26

For simple project drawings of single-family houses, 16GB RAM is required. For larger residential buildings we recommend 32GB RAM. To be able to work on more complex models in residential construction and to be able to run applications in parallel, we advise 64GB RAM with ECC function (Error Correction Code). With the support of ECC memory modules, data bit errors can already be detected and corrected during operation without data loss. Since business workstations often have 8-16 memory banks, a subsequent upgrade is easily possible. Make sure that the memory is filled in quad-channel mode in order to utilise the optimal performance of your memory. The utilisation of the available memory can be displayed at any time via the task manager in the *Performance* tab.

The optimum Graphic Card for ArchiCAD 26

You will get a better overview if you use three screens for your ArchiCAD work. One display for the current ArchiCAD project, the second display for the current structural analysis and with the third display you already answer a new email to leave no wishes open for the builder. To achieve perfect results in 3D modelling, we recommend the use of professional, certified graphics cards from NVIDIA of the Quadro Pascal series, e.g. an NVIDIA Quadro P2000 with 5GB VRAM. From version ArchiCAD 23 onwards, the high-quality CineRender Engine R20 from Maxon has been integrated. With the introduction of version AutoCad 24, the Twinmotion 2020 programme for real-time renderings is available to you as the owner free of charge. Please note that the graphics card is hardly used during rendering and set the focus on a high-frequency CPU. It remains to be hoped that ArchiCad will include the GPU for rendering in one of the next versions. For large residential and commercial buildings, an NVIDIA Geforce RTX 3060 with 8GB VRAM or a Geforce RTX4000 with 8GB VRAM is suitable, while large projects such as complex residential complexes or hospitals would be better served by an NVIDIA Quadro RTX A4000 with 16GB DDR6 VRAM, an NVIDIA Geforce 3080 or an NVIDIA Quadro RTX A5000 with 8.192 CudaCores. NVIDIA Geforce series gaming card manufacturers (such as PNY ASUS, Gigabyte, etc.) may differ from chip manufacturer references. Note that the product life- and driver release-cycles for gaming cards are significantly shorter than for certified NVDIA and AMD graphics cards.

HDD Speed up for ArchiCAD 26

For fast data access, we recommend installing the operating system and your applications on a Samsung 970 Evo plus or alternatively on a Samsung 980 Pro M.2 NVME SSD with sufficient storage space. Ideally, you should store your current project data on a second SSD. Newer business workstations are already equipped with M.2 NVME SSDs. The mainboards often offer the option of connecting a second NVME SSD. You will find the relevant information in the data sheet. With the support of a PCIe adapter, older mainboards from Business Workstation can be equipped with an M.2 NVME SSD without any problems. For our HP Z440, Z640 and HP Z840 we recommend an Icy-Box, model IB-PCI208, PCI-Express x4. Pay attention to which variant your mainboard supports. A distinction is made between PCIe 2.0 and PCIe 3.0. The more lanes available to your M.2 NVME SSD, the faster the speed of your M.2 SSD. PCIe 2.0 x2 has a read speed of about 800 MB/s, PCI 2.0 x4 is twice as fast and PCI 3.0 x4 is capable of 3,200 MB/s. The read and write speeds according to the manufacturer in comparison: Samsung 970 Evo plus with 500GB: seq. read 3,500 MB/s. Seq. write 3,200 MB/s. Samsung 980 Pro with 500GB: seq. read 6,900 MB/s. Seq. write 5,000 MB/s.