This information is to help students in the Interior Design Program at the University of North Texas (UNT ID program) understand the laptop system requirements. Among many design software programs recommended by the UNT ID program, Revit Architecture demands higher system requirements. Obtaining a laptop with the system requirements for Revit Architecture is critical to avoid technical hassles.
Below are the System Requirements for 32 Bit and 64 Bit Autodesk Revit Architecture 2012 based on Autodesk’s website at http://usa.autodesk.com/revit-architecture/system-requirements/
For your reference, the College of Visual Arts and Design (CVAD) labs are running Revit Architecture 2012 and AutoCAD 2012 from Fall 2011 with a Microsoft Windows7 64-bit operating system (OS). Revit Architecture and AutoCAD have been compatible with Windows OS but NOT Mac OS until late 2011. It does not mean you need a PC only for Revit Architecture and AutoCAD. If you have a Mac PC dual platform, you can run them on a Windows OS.
Revit Architecture and AutoCAD operating on Mac OS were released recently though the AutoCAD course in the UNT ID program, which uses these programs on Windows OS only, NOT on Mac OS. Due to the fact that the interfaces on Windows OS and Mac OS are significantly different, learning those programs on Mac OS is fully the student’s responsibility.
Choosing Between a 32-Bit and 64-Bit Operating System
For the high end user, knowing the difference between a 32-bit and a 64-bit processor and an operating system (OS) is vital.
The most basic difference is the amount of memory (RAM) that a 32-bit OS can make use of. If you want to use 4 GB of RAM with a 32-bit system – it is not going to work. Even if you install 4 GB modules, due to technical reasons (explained later), the OS will still be able to detect and make use of a maximum of 3.5 GB.
A computer running a 64-bit OS can process larger numbers and be more efficient with smaller numbers. It means that your computer will be fast. The better benefits of 64-bit computing goes to research institutions and companies where large number crunching calculations are performed. The average user can exploit the benefits of 64-bit computing below.
1. Access more RAM: With a 64-bit operating system, your computer can access more than 4 GB of RAM. So if you need to install more than 4 GB of RAM, 64-bit is the way to go.
2. Software comes in two versions: 32-bit and 64-bit. If a 64-bit version of your favorite application is available and you have a 64-bit OS, go for that. The 64-bit software would be faster and the benefits over a 32-bit version in that case are obvious – there will be a visible difference in processing speeds.
3. Some programs such as data encryption software can benefit greatly from 64-bit registers (if the software is 64-bit compiled) and effectively execute 3 to 5 times faster on 64-bit than on 32-bit.
4. A 64-bit OS can run 32-bit applications, there is backward compatibility.
5. If you have a 64-bit processor, you are safe for the future. 32-bit operating systems are yet to replace 64-bit and you would be already using 64-bit.
There are some drawbacks of 64-bit computing.
1. There are few 64-bit softwares available and to truly take advantage of 64-bit computing, the software has to be 64-bit also. This a drawback, meaning that if you use a 32-bit software on a 64-bit machine, there is no significant difference as you would get when you run the same software on a 32-bit machine.
2. Driver support: If you use a 64-bit OS, you have to use 64-bit device drivers. 32-bit device drivers, the ones that are usually supplied, won’t work with 64-bit. Before you upgrade ensure that there are 64-bit drivers available for your computer.
3. More RAM: 64-bit operating systems consume more RAM than their 32-bit counterpart. This is due to the fact that the same data occupies more space in memory on a 64-bit machine. Ensure that you have 3 GB and more RAM if you want a smooth experience.
4. More expensive.
32-Bit and 64-Bit Windows: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about the 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows. This information is available from Microsoft Corporation Windows website at http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-vista/32-bit-and-64-bit-Windows-frequently-asked-questions
What is the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows?
How can I tell if my computer is running a 32-bit or a 64-bit version of Windows?
How do I tell if my computer can run a 64-bit version of Windows?
Which version of Windows Vista should I install: the 32-bit version or the 64-bit version?
Can I upgrade from a 32-bit version of Windows to a 64-bit version of Windows?
Can I run 32-bit programs on a 64-bit computer?
Can I run 64-bit programs on a 32-bit computer?
How can I find programs and devices that work with the 64-bit version of Windows Vista?
If I'm running a 64-bit version of Windows, do I need 64-bit drivers for my devices?
Free Student Copies of AutoCAD and Revit Architecture
Autodesk website provides free software downloads for students. It includes student versions of AutoCAD, Revit Architecture, etc. Please be aware that CVAD labs are running AutoCAD 2012 and Revit Architecture 2012 from Fall 2011 with Windows7 64-bit operating system. Please check the blog occasionally for updated information.
In order to get the free software downloads, go to Autodesk website. Under Communities, you click Students & Educators. Click Free Software. The link for that is as follows. http://students.autodesk.com/
What is Revit?
Revit is a full 3D Building Information Modeling program, or parametric Computer-Aided Design program, which allows the user to design, create, and publish contract documents to clients, consultants, and construction management teams in the field. The term “parametric” refers to the process of constructing a virtual building manifested in a 3D computer model where each component is created once thus providing bi-directional manipulation that occurs instantly and universally.
Revit produces a reliable digital representation of the building available for design decision making, design scope, scheduling, high-quality construction document production, and cost estimates. Having the ability to keep information up-to-date and accessible in an integrated digital environment gives students a clear vision of their projects, as well as the ability to make informed decisions faster. Revit can be applied across the spectrum of architectural and interior design: schematic design, design development, construction document, building analysis, visualization, etc.
The 3D visualization capabilities of Revit benefits students in understanding how spaces are put together. Revit allows students to view their designs in 3D, enabling them to clearly identify and solve design problems in the early stage of the design process.
Autodesk has developed three versions of Revit: Revit Architecture for architects and building designers, Revit Structure for structural engineers, and Revit MEP for mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineers.
