Best Hardware set up ?

[Chris Pierce]

Hope somebody can help me out.

I use 4 computers ( 3 desktops on network, 1 lap top standalone) each dual screened. The main one on network probably has 2-4 thousand appraisal reports one it. Things on network are getting slow, crashing, when I open a report from a month ago half of its gone sometimes. Now I make sure I have a PDF of final report, in case it goes cyber.

Thinking of getting a new 2 desktop system networked and a better lap top to stay a little more portable.

Does anyone use one of these external monster hard drives to store file and keep disk space free? If so is it fairly easy to export the appraisal file and retrieve it if needed? I think that might solve a lot of problems.

I use ACI and would love to go with Apple or Mac but will have to call ACI to see if that can happen.

Experience wise I’ve used ACI and computers since the 1980’s but I’m no computer whiz except for turning on one and using the keyboard and basic functions to get through the process.

Any specific brand names, processer, drive, ram capacity or whatever else you can think of would be of great help.

You folks are always a great deal of help, hope I can give back more than I take from this forum in the future.
Thanks CP

 

[PantherIT]

I would recommend sticking to PCs as having Macs will just increase the complexity and maintenance requirements. It sounds like you might also benefit from a dedicated server instead of using a desktop as a central data location. By dedicating a server to this task you are increasing its reliability and stability. Since you work on these computers everyday and they are the lifeblood of your operation I recommend spending a little extra on business class hardware. I always recommend the HP Elite line of PCs as they have been highly reliable in my experience and they come with great warranties with affordable warranty options such as Next Business Day hardware service. Not a requirement but something to consider. If you would like more specific recommendations or price quotes feel free to PM.

 

[Randall Garrett]

FWIW, I agree with the core of what PantherIT is saying. Business class stuff equipment should be considered when looking at new equipment. It may not be as sexy to look at and can run a few percent more than regular consumer gear, but if I'm going to spend a little more I'd rather put that money into things that are more ROI related than cosmetic. Now, before the Mac folks flame me, please note that I do have several Apple products - home and work (am using one of them right now) - and I am certainly not ignorant, nor am I anti-Apple. They make fine equipment. I just think that IF one is willing to spend more on equipment than the all-too-typical bargain PC gear, they should consider if their first priority is performance or style. I also agree with the notion of a dedicated server. It may not need to be a super killer, rack mounted beast, but more importantly its role of being dedicated vs. a shared PC that someone lose is also using for regular work & play. If your job is hauling wood, get a truck, not a urbanite compact SUV...

If, in the end, you like using a Mac, then great - go for it, but I would let someone at least present you with some options.

Just my 2¢...


-Randall Garrett-
*Apex Software*

/end/

 

[Chris Pierce]

Thank you for your help, I was not geared computer wise to even think about a server. I may be getting ahold of Panther in the next couple weeks, thanks again. CP