GIS: GIS Software & Tools

Computers

Choosing the right computer can be stressful since the choice is highly dependent on your everyday needs. This section will break down the basic computer specifications and include the minimum requirements for the occasional GIS user and optimal choices for regular GIS users. Please remember the following is general guidelines.

Processor (CPU) - 

Computer processors can be compared to brains. They handle all the calculations the machine is running and are important to the overall speed and performance of the computer. The main CPU makers are Intel and AMD but brand name shouldn't be the deciding factor in choosing a processor. Rather you should choose based on the level of computing power needed.

If you plan on using GIS software occasionally then the computer should at a minimum have a series 5 processor. Even if you don't use GIS often, you should consider a stronger processor if you find yourself multi-tasking a lot. If you regularly use GIS then you should work on a machine with a series 7 or 9 processor. Both companies have organized their processors into "series" which helps give the general consumer a broad idea of processing power.

You might see the term "Generation" when reading about processors. Generations signify the year when a processor was released. Generally it is better to buy from the newest generation but there are times where it might be better to buy an older advanced processor so you can splurge on other computer specs that may be more important to you.

Note: In late 2020, Apple committed to selling computers installed with their own M processor. There is currently no way to install ArcGIS Pro on computers with a M processor.  If you wish to install ArcGIS on an Apple computer with an intel processor please contact the GIS specialist for more help.

Random Access Memory (RAM)- Temporary Memory

RAM is the main memory in a computer and is as equally important as the CPU. If the CPU is like a brain, then RAM is like the workspace you are in. The larger the workspace, the more items can be out in the open and your brain is able to think about things more clearly. RAM is sold in GB and ranges between 2GB and 64 GB. 16 GB is a good amount for both the occasional and moderate GIS user. If you intend on using GIS a lot or anything related to computer programming then 32 GB would be a better choice. Remember, a high performance computer will have a well-balanced combination of processor and memory.

Hard Disk Drives (HDD)- Permanent Storage

With cloud storage being more accessible and helpful with sharing data it's easy to understand why more laptops are being sold with small amounts of hard drive space. If you intend on using GIS then it is important to have a large hard drive. Hard drives are responsible for the computer's operating system which interprets keyboard and mouse movements, allows internet browsing, word processors, and video games. It's become increasingly common for laptops to have a SSD (Solid State Drive). SSD's are more reliable and faster than the standard HDD but are also more costly. Generally it is still better to purchase a smaller amount of SSD compared to a large amount of HDD. Additionally you can always buy more permanent storage to solve future issues. To run GIS programs, a computer should have a minimum amount of 512 GB SSD. Only people who multi-task with large programs often in addition to using GIS (video games, video editing, 3D modeling) should use computers with 1 TB SSD.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

The graphics processing unit is the main graphics processing chip that you cannot replace (nor should). The GPU is similar to the CPU but the difference is that the GPU is dedicated to supporting intensive calculations required to render images, videos, and animations while the CPU handles all the main functions of the computer. 

There are two types of GPUs: integrated and discrete. An integrated GPU is the one installed on the same chip as the CPU; these are commonly known as the less powerful of the two but are inexpensive. A discrete GPU is a separate graphics processor that is often in the form of a removeable graphics card (this has lead to the interchanges of GPU and graphics card). If you find your integrated GPU is failing or you're a serious video gamer or video editor then a discrete GPU will elevate your experience. Downsides to discrete GPUs are their costs and tendency to consume more power and generate excess heat. 

The rise of AI and machine learning and advances in augmented reality have caused the GPU market to expand. The two biggest competitors are NVIDIA and AMD, known for their main GPU products, GeForce and Radeon, respectively. GPU comparisons aren't as easy to compare with each other but a rule of thumb is the bigger the number, the stronger the GPU. Luckily most consumers don't really need to worry about their GPU choice; those who are serious gamers, video editors, animators, or 3D modelers will need to do more research comparing the most recent GPU releases. CPU and RAM play a bigger factor in GIS software but it is important not to neglect GPU especially if the intent is to create 3D maps.

Display

Electronic displays are everywhere; in TVs, smartphones, and digital signs. When it comes to choosing a size, bigger screens are better when working with GIS. A bigger screen allows you to see more of your map even which is great when viewing small details over a wide area. Laptop screen size should be no smaller than 14 in. and desktop monitors should be at least 24 in. 

Other relevant display quality factors are resolution and brightness. Resolution is the number of pixels that can be contained on a display screen. The table below shows the most common resolution sizes and their names in both the computer and TV industry which are often interchanged. Generally, buying a screen with Full HD quality will be good enough for the average consumer.

Brightness is measured in nits or candelas per square meter. For office spaces, 250 nits is an adequate brightness level. If you work in a room with a lot of natural light or outside then you'll want something brighter at around 400 nits at least. Anti-glare coatings can also improve visibility.