Recommended configuration

[brucemck2]

I'm in market for a new Windows XP based desktop. My current one is three years old, and I'm going to convert it to being a dedicated music server.

So, my question is, if I want terrific Elements 4 (or maybe soon, full blown Photoshop) performance, what "features" or "specs" should I look for?

Thanks.

[GaryK]

Hi

Without getting too detailed.. I would say check out the box specs and at least double them if you can.
Processor speed and memory (at least 1 gb memory) should be your main considerations.
I don't believe the graphics card needs to be particularily heavy duty but yu should have one.
If you are doing a lot of photo stuff a BIG hard drive or two would be essential. Or maybe an external drive instead of a second internal.
A big monitor also helps. I have an LCD but it took me a while to get it set up to somethng I feel comfortable with. I took one back and almost a second one.

All just my opinion but it should get you started.

[MikeH]

Hi,

I'd also look for a machine that has the latest DDR2 RAM and that it is expandable. If you are working with large files, then RAM will make all the difference. The latest machines come with 2048MB at 667 MHz and are expandable to 4096MB.

Mike