Vista Computer

Well I'm finally considering getting a new pc. My current one is my baby. I built it from scratch, burned it in and we've been in a love/hate relationship ever since. But as that was quite a few years ago, it's time for an upgrade.

And as I digest the new specs for the upcoming release of Vista, I'm getting rather excited. So I'm going to start looking for my next dream machine. The new OS has some interesting new demands and although I'm not going to build a Vista-spec-only machine, I am certainly going to go for main requirements and then I'll be ready to welcome her in when she's finally released.

My aim to create the ultimate graphics machine which coincidentally has some of the same needs as Vista. I've been researching gamer's forums to see what's hot there as well, as quite honestly, gamers have similar reqs as graphic artists.

So far, Microsoft hasn't released any official minimum hardware requirements, but it's safe to say that looking at the beta version requirements, Vista is going be a much more demanding system. According to the Microsoft website, they actually state that you should have a modern CPU. All due respect, but that’s like saying you should buy a shiny diamond. Though to give them credit, they do link to Intel and AMD’s sites that specify in more detail the credits of a “modern CPU.” Since I’m still an Intel diehard, I’ll probably continue to stick with them. I’m completely psyched about dual-core, so the Pentium D 930 looks like a good choice. Unless I wanted to build my own system again, then I’d have to look at the Pentium Extreme Edition that offers both dual-core and hyper-threading.

Vista has been hinting at the need for 256mb graphics card to fully enjoy the visual glass effect of Vista Aero. DirectX version 9 will be imperative, as will the ability for your graphics card to support WDDM. No, that has nothing to do with WMD's. WDDM is Windows Display Driver Model and it's important to note, as not all graphics cards are WDDM capable. Looks like we can also bid AGP adieu as Vista uses PCIx. So a PCIx16 graphics slot is necessary. Right now, I’m favoring the nVidia GeForce 7800 GT.

And then of course, there’s memory. So far we’re hearing 512MB is recommended. And there’s talk of upwards to 2GB being optimal. Holy DIMM-sticks! I remember when 32MB was considered revolutionary. In all fairness, they do say systems will be able to run on 128MB but at a sacrifice of performance and speed. Well, I’m talking dream machine here, so I’ll definitely want that 2GB.

With all this talk about graphics cards, I can’t forget the new monitor. Vista is going to present some pretty cool new options for end-users with this operating system. Things like HDTV and wide-screen capability are going desktop. Right now, I like the Dell UltraSharp 2405FP, despite its mixed reviews depending on what production version you get, it’s a behemoth 24” of sweet bliss for the eyes, the ViewSonic VP930, which is just an all around solid screen, but only 19” and the LaCie 321, that blows away the competition in both performance and price. Making the switch from my trusty ViewSonic G810 CRT to an LCD will be tough. But I think LCD’s have come a long way and I’m ready to take the plunge. It sure will take up less space on my desk, and I won't have to worry about it crushing my 4 year old if it falls on him.

So here's keeping my fingers crossed to find all the awesome components I'm looking for in a pre-built configuration.