Rendering in SketchUp

42
Part 1: Overview and Concepts
Fig. 4.7: 
Cloud rendering
Shaderlight, teaming up with Limitless Computing in Boulder, Colorado, has released a 
cloud rendering service. Check 
www.artvps.com
, the home page for Shaderlight, for more 
information on this service. 
Computer Specifications
Given the current pace of computer advancement, use all the information provided to help you 
determine your computer needs. These lists are by no means comprehensive. Always
 consult 
with specific computer manufacturers when you’re configuring a rendering system. 
Dell and Mac fit the bill for most of these systems. However, for faster speeds and large 
model renders, consider specialized manufacturers such as Xi Computers (Fig. 4.8), iBuy-
Power, Falcon Computers, CyberPower PC, and others boutique companies. These companies 
produce gaming- and rendering-specific computers and will ensure a system is configured to 
your needs. 

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43
Chapter 4: How Rendering Works
Fig. 4.8: 
The Xi Computers web page (www.xicomputer.com)
Minimum Requirements
Systems that meet the minimum requirements will provide slow and limited results, and 
usually they are not adequate. However, the IRP developers list them as minimum and 
sometimes even recommended specs. 
3
3
1 or 2 (core duo) processors
3
3
2 GB of RAM
3
3
ATI or NVIDIA graphics card

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44
Part 1: Overview and Concepts
Base Requirements
Base-spec computers can render small- to medium-size models with decent speed. Large 
landscape models and models that contain many simulated lights might struggle or not finish. 
A second- or third-generation NVIDIA GeForce card ensures that SketchUp will work well. 
3
3
Quad Core i5 or i7 processor or similar
3
3
4 to 8 GB of RAM
3
3
NVIDIA GeForce graphic cards