2014: Autodesk Simulation Moldflow and Graphics Utilization

Issue

You want to configure a machine best suited for your Simulation Moldflow 2014 use, and want to ensure graphically you have a card that provides no limitation and also allows for utilization of unique features and is cost effective.

Solution

Usage Explanation:

Graphics cards are the first hardware component covered that can be applicable for certain machine configurations.  With the inclusion of GPU capabilities, that has changed somewhat, but there are some scenarios in which machine configuration does not need to include graphics.

The primary reason for this is dependent upon whether or not the machine in question will be used to visually represent the part.  If not, much of the resources and cost can be directed to other components such as RAM or processing capabilities to improve the focus of the machine.

When deciding on a graphics card, they must be specifically designed for OpenGL.  They should also be focused on workstation specific cards and not those that are designed for gaming.  As with most hardware components, the more memory available, the better.  This ensures that large models or displays don’t push relevant system data off the graphics card, such as font and colors.

In addition to memory, clock speed is important for processing data and sending it to and from the system memory.  Higher transfer rates are more beneficial as it allows information to be processed quicker.  The fastest current configuration is PCI Express (PCIe) which can have upwards of 8 GHz clock speeds and 16 GT/s transfer rates.

Avoid onboard graphics.  This indicates the graphics card is integrated into the motherboard and therefore shares machine resources such as memory and bus with the CPU.  This will slow down the transfer for both the CPU and the graphics if both are being utilized simultaneously.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Capabilities:

A GPU is a specialized processor that offloads 3D graphics rendering from the microprocessor.  Due to the highly parallel structure, this makes them more effective than general purpose CPUs for a range of complex algorithms such as those found in Moldflow.

GPU setups located on a dedicated video card are significantly more powerful than those integrated into the CPU.  The only restrictions are that it requires Windows operating systems and the card must be a double precision capable NVIDIA card.  Double precision is in reference to the level of accuracy necessary and cards that lack double precision can’t be guaranteed to provide the necessary level of accuracy.

With the new 2014 release, FERMI GPU capabilities are supported as well.

Recommendations:

Graphics Memory:

Minimum – 756 MB

Recommended – 1+ GB

Note – The more, typically the better provided you aren’t exceeding current levels.  That said, the more memory allows for a higher ceiling should your models size or number of models displayed continue to increase over time.  If utilizing GPU, an additional 100 MB memory reserve will be necessary to ensure GPU runs smoothly.

Graphics Speed:

Minimum – No specified minimum

Recommended – As fast as possible (current max is 8 GHz clock speed and 16 GT/s transfer rate)

Note – The faster, the better.  It allows quicker processing and transfer to system memory and CPU.  Depending on the scope of the card, slower transfer rates and clock speeds may be a trade off for other hardware settings.

Other considerations:

GPU – Not necessary but does provide benefits to processing speed should the configuration be setup properly and the correct steps be taken.

Dual Monitor Support – Can increase work performance both pre and post processing.

Digital Video Interface (DVI) – Ensures best digital signal for your monitors.  Dual-Link DVI-I will improve that as it provides twice the bandwidth of single link DVI.