RAM recommendations for optimal performance on 64-bit operating systems

You want to know what the RAM recommendations are for large assemblies on 64-bit operating systems.

In 32-bit operating systems there is a limited amount (2 to 4GB) of addressable memory available for any given process. However, with 64-bit operating systems the amount of addressable of memory has been increased.

To ensure optimal performance on 64-bit operating systems, review the recommendations listed below.

• To offset the need for processes to use a page file on the hard drive, add more RAM. The cost benefit of increased RAM should be determined based on the increased productivity due to better performance.
• To optimize performance with large assemblies, continue to use techniques like Level of Detail (LOD), Substitution, and so on.
• Plan ahead to ensure that the workstation hardware will be able to accommodate an increased amount of RAM, if necessary.
• Install individual DIMMs with the maximum possible RAM in each slot in order to leave some slots open for future expansion.

Based on our tests ⁽¹⁾, the recommended amounts of RAM for optimal performance with large assemblies are as follows:

Notes: