We recommend the following specifications as a guideline to assist you when purchasing new hardware. Due to the constantly changing availability of computer hardware, we cannot recommend a specific make or model. ArtiCAD-Pro Version 18 runs successfully on lower specification hardware, though you may experience delays in the design process.
In order for ArtiCAD/BathCAD to work correctly you will need to keep your system update. You should install the latest Windows updates when available, and keep video and printer drivers up to date. You should ensure your system is kept fully functional and charged (where appropriate).
The processor/CPU will have a speed measured in Gigahertz (GHz). You should try and purchase a system with the highest speed rating for that type of CPU.
A full install of ArtiCAD Pro will use less than 2 Gigabytes (GB) of hard disk space. Most systems on the market today have hard disks in excess of 80GB, which is many times more than you will need.
ArtiCAD will run on all version of Windows XP, Vista, Windows 7 and Windows 8 (both 32-bit and 64-bit). However, you should ensure you have the latest service packs and video drivers installed.
ArtiCAD does not require a permanent internet connection to run. However it will be necessary to connect to the internet to activate your licence, access our training materials and download updates to your system.
ArtiCAD can run on Apple hardware, though not on Mac OS. You need to have a version of Windows installed - either directly through Boot Camp or using an emulator (e.g. Parallels). Once Windows is installed and working, you can install ArtiCAD in exactly the same way as you would on a regular PC. Please note ArtiCAD Technical Support cannot help you with any issues relating to installation or configuration of Windows on Apple hardware.
The power of computer systems is always increasing. New features are added to ArtiCAD which require more processing power. As a result, you should expect to need to upgrade your system after approximately 3 years. That may mean adding some more RAM, or possibly a new system - it depends on the initial specification - the better the system you purchase now, the longer it will last before needing an upgrade.
It is possible to upgrade the CPU, RAM and graphics card on a desktop system. However, upgrading the CPU is expensive, so it is recommended you purchase a system with the fastest CPU possible.
If you are considering connecting your system to a second monitor or display screen, ensure it has enough video outputs.
| Processor/CPU | RAM | Graphics card memory. |
|---|---|---|
| Intel i3 | 4096MB (4GB) | 128MB |
| Processor/CPU | RAM | Graphics card memory. |
|---|---|---|
| Intel i7 | 4096MB (4GB) | 256MB |
Where possible, you should avoid laptops with integrated or shared memory video cards. Video cards with dedicated video memory give better performance.
It is only possible to upgrade the RAM on a laptop. You should look for the fastest CPU in preference to RAM.
| Processor/CPU | RAM | Graphics card memory. |
|---|---|---|
| Intel i3 | 4096MB (4GB) | 128MB |
| Processor/CPU | RAM | Graphics card memory. |
|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i7 | 4096MB (4GB) | 256MB |
Recommendations for the current best performing CPU, RAM and graphics card. This applies equally to desktop and laptop systems unless otherwise stated.
| Processor/CPU | RAM | Graphics card memory. |
|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i7 | 4096MB (4GB) | 512MB |