How to pick the right PC for creative production
If you want to buy a new computer, you might want to familiarize yourself with some of the basic terminology involved to help you make a better decision. Assuming you have already narrowed down your choice to a desktop computer, such as a Lenovo Desktop PC, read on to know about some essential computer components that determine your computer’s performance. Further, you will learn which part to pay attention to based on your expected PC usage.
What is the core?
Precisely as the name suggests, a CPU’s core is its central processor. Initially, each processor was equipped with one core, capable of handling one task at a time. Now, CPUs come with multiple cores, where each core can work on a different task. In essence, the more cores a CPU has, the higher its multi-tasking ability and, thus, efficiency.
What is a GPU?
Continuing with the topic of multi-tasking, the graphics processing unit (GPU) is designed for parallel processing. It has broad applicability in graphics and video rendering. The GPU gained popularity with its ability to enhance the gaming experience and is now being used increasingly in creative production and machine learning. It can be integrated within the main chip that hosts the CPU, or it can be discrete. Ask your computer technician to give you clarity on the pros and cons of the two, based on your usage.
What is clock speed?
As mentioned, the CPU processes many tasks at a time. It takes instructions from different programs and executes them every second. A CPU’s clock speed measures how many cycles of tasks it can run per second and is measured in GHz (gigahertz). For example, a CPU with a clock speed of 3.2 GHz executes 3.2 billion cycles per second. Different CPU designs handle instructions differently, so it is not advisable to compare clock speeds across brands and generations.
What is the significance of Memory and Storage?
The memory of your computer refers to the place where data is held temporarily, enabling the CPU to access data faster. It is measured in RAM size. Higher RAM translates to faster workflow. Additionally, your computer needs storage components to store away data for future reference. A common form of storage is the internal disk drive, which is further categorized into Hard Disk Drive (HDD) and Solid State Drive (SSD).
An HDD storage device contains spinning re-writable magnetic disks where data is stored. The moving parts in an HDD make it vulnerable to mechanical wear and tear. SSDs are more advanced and have no moving parts. Hence, they are more reliable and significantly faster.
What to check in your PC depending on the use in creative production:
Active work – such as video editing, 3D Animation and Motion Design:
Active video editing takes up a lot of processing power. If you intend to use your PC for video editing every day, then look for one with a higher clock speed and at least 8 -16 cores. As videos of higher resolution require lots of internal memory as well as storage, it is advisable to go for 32GB RAM for glitch-free work. SSDs which read and write data faster make editing, storing and retrieving bulky videos easier.
Processing work – such as video processing and 3D rendering:
Video processing, as opposed to active editing, does not demand much out of your PC. If you plan on converting videos and recompressing them on a regular basis, look for a PC with a higher number of cores. Having robust storage is always an advantage.
Graphic Designing:
If you are a graphic designer, you may think that a GPU matters a lot to your work. However, it plays a minor role, and any mid to higher range GPU will handle day-to-day graphic designing challenges well. You must, however, pay attention to the clock speed, and a high rate is essential for a lag-free experience. You can also compromise a little on the RAM if you have better clock speeds.
In conclusion
PCs, like the Lenovo Desktop PC, have come a long way, and most are capable of handling the rigours demanded by work in creative production. Consult your technician to see how a new PC can add value to your creativity by making the production process as seamless as possible.