gCADPlus landscape CAD software puts a few demands on computer resources. Any computer capable of running Windows will be adequate. Most computers sold commercially in the $750-$1000 bracket will happily run gCADPlus. The mouse needs a scroll wheel, as this button is used for zooming in and out in the design space. We favour using quality mice such as those marketed by HP, Microsoft, and Logitech over cheaper mice.
If you are starting out, consider using an old PC from a family member to download the demo version of gCDPlus. You might be surprised by how well it performs.
Digital design work saves paper and is good for the environment.
Advanced specification for commercial landscape designers
Especially if you expect to produce 3D models of your designs using software such as SketchUp, consider purchasing a computer with the following specifications:
- Windows 10 operating system
- Intel i5 processor (i7 preferred)
- 8Gb RAM (16 Gb preferred)
- 500Mb hard disk drive (SSD preferred)
- Mouse with scroll wheel
- Dedicated graphics card with at least 2Gb memory supporting Open GL 2.0 or later
- 1280 x 800 screen resolution or higher