Landscape Design Software by Idea Spectrum
Software Compatibility FAQ
   

 

Q. Will Idea Spectrum software run on Windows Vista?

A. Yes, all of our latest software has been extensively tested on Vista and Windows XP.

To use version 2 of our software on Vista, a setting needs to be changed after the software has been installed. Details.


Q. Is my computer compatible with Idea Spectrum software?

A. Idea Spectrum software utilizes leading edge technology. Usually computers that are within two years old will function well with the software, but there are exceptions. If you are unsure as to whether your computer is fast enough to run the software, please send an e-mail to support@ideaspectrum.com requesting a demo. The demo is free and will verify your computer’s compatibility with Idea Spectrum software.



Q. Will Idea Spectrum software run on a Macintosh?

A. Unfortunately we do not yet have a Macintosh version of our software available. However, many of our past customers have had success with certain Windows emulators.



Q. What is the most important aspect of my computer in regards to running Idea Spectrum software or other 3D programs?

A. The most important aspect of the computer is the video card. The video card must have at least 128 MB of memory, although more is better.


Q. What is a video card?

A. Video cards are silicon circuit boards that processes everything that is displayed on the monitor.



Q. I have an old laptop. Can I upgrade its video card?

A. Not usually. Most laptops have all of their components built into a single circuit board in order to reduce size. While there are certain companies that are ambitious in their attempts to bring more modular laptops to the market, the mainstream laptops remain non-upgradeable (with the common exception of upgradeable memory).



Q. What are the advantages of upgrading my video card, and why are they so important?

A. Upgrading your video card will drastically affect the speed and performance of your computer. The video card carries the task of processing complex 3D geometry at a very high speed, as well as managing the 2D display. The faster the video card, the faster and more efficiently it can process what you see on your screen.



Q. I would like to upgrade my video card. What are the different kinds of video cards?

A. There are currently three kinds of video cards in commercial use; PCI Express, PCI, and AGP. The factor distinguishing these cards is how they connect to your computer. AGP cards connect to a short (usually brown) slot with a small latch. If your computer utilizes an AGP connection, there will only be one AGP slot. PCI cards can be identified as being connected to a shorter white slot, of which there are usually many of in every computer. PCI Express cards are the newest types of video cards, and are fast becoming the industry standard.



Q. I would like to upgrade my video card. How much do video cards cost?

A. Video cards can range in price from ten to eight hundred dollars. I have seen many video cards from twenty-five to thirty-five dollars that would be exceptional in running Idea Spectrum software.



Q. I would like to upgrade my 3D card. Where can I purchase one?

A. Video cards can be purchased at most office, electronics, and computers stores. There are usually shops at local malls that will carry video cards as well. Optionally, video cards can also be purchased online for a wider selection and usually a lower price.



Q. I would like to upgrade my video card, but I don’t feel comfortable doing so by myself. Can you walk me through the process of identifying, purchasing, and installing the new card?

A. We would be happy to help you in any way possible. Please send an e-mail to support@ideaspectrum.com with your request for assistance. Also, most computer stores offer installation services.
   

 

Technical Support
Driveway Design

Justin Napier
Idea Spectrum, Inc.
E-mail:Support@IdeaSpectrum.com
Toll free: 1-866-894-4332

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