Video Card

[tjg 0]

I'd like to convert my old tower to a dedicated Sim box.  As it only runs on one processor my only concern is RAM and graphic card.  As the game is of old design I'm concerned which card to get.  I see where it uses directx or open gl.  Does anyone know the upper limit for direct x - and more likely the best video card with SimRush as my only consideration?   Also - I'll probably replace the chip any suggestions there/concerns with vid card?

 

I'm experimenting with batting - without much sucess - but that will be on a different system.

 

Thank you.

[A Nonny Moose 8,261]

For openers, forget OpenGL;  it was never completed and just blows up.

 

Any graphics card with 512K will do, but the bigger the better.  You'll need 4GB of memory with a 64-bit processor if you want to use the 4GB patch.  If you are using 32-bit decor with the NAM, you may have to consult with z1.

[tjg 0]

Thanks - I have run the gig patch and it does make some improvements - in specific areas - but draw speed (I only use large cities) when I bop around is an issue.  Obviously a first world problem - but it would be nice to have the thing hum like well oiled machine.  I do use 32 bit detail - and there have been no performance issues that I've noticed. 

 

Thanks for the Moose droppings!

[APSMS 1,892]

what is your processor speed?

 

It's worth noting that while a capacious gfx card will do wonders, an older card (DirectX 9 is the minimum required) will run SC4 better due to poor execution of older graphics rules on the newer DirectX10 and 11 cards (thanks Microsoft!)

 

SC4 ran very smoothly on my Pentium laptop (2ghz) that is now 6-7 years old. It runs just as hot on my newer i7Quad core (max 3.5ghz), and it only runs as smooth as it does now because I spent a lot of time fiddling with the graphics drivers and graphics options for my basic nVidia card (~roughly eq to a GT520; my old laptop only had a chipset).

 

So the older computer choice is wise. Remember to do the same for your graphics card, and all should be well. a 64-bit OS would be nice for plugins and such, but is not necessary unless you have a copy lying around.

[tjg 0]

Chip is an Athalon 64 - version release supports DDRAM - 2.2 GHZ under the most ideal environment - degrades - board runs hot - but i cut out large parts of the box - and covered the cut outs with lined it with metal door screen mesh -  Its ugly - but works.  I know I should replace it - but I still remember how many day old bagels I ate for dinner saving up for that computer.

 

I appreciate the confirmation on the Direct X.  I'll have to do some research but I'm sure I can find a great card topping at 9 with good memory. (I rolled back to 9 and I did notice a huge difference - but my graphic card inhales wind - so I wasn't certain if the direct x version limitation was universal.

 

I have a copy of xp Pro 64 bit - not certain were the key is - but I suspect I can solve that issue - it was legally purchased years ago.

 

I greatly appreciate your time and care.

 

Regards,

Timothy.