News
Micro workstations get graphics boost with RTX
Revit 2021.1 extends focus on automation utodesk has concentrated on automation and computation for the new Revit 2021.1 release, adding new sample studies for Generative Design for Revit, and introducing a new 2.6 version of Dynamo for Revit along with new Dynamo nodes. The software also offers better interoperability with Autodesk Infraworks and Autodesk FormIt Pro and enhanced data exchange with third party tools including McNeel Rhino and Trimble Sketchup 2020.
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■ autodesk.com/revit
P and Dell have beefed up the graphics in their micro workstations, adding custom versions of the Nvidia Quadro RTX 3000 GPU to the HP Z2 Mini G5 and the new Dell Precision 3240 Compact. Ultra-small form factor (USFF) workstations typically feature entry-level CAD-focused GPUs like the Quadro P1000, so this is big news for those who want more graphics performance without having to sacrifice valuable desk space, especially when working from home. The Dell Precision 3240 Compact measures 18.8 x 7.0 x 17.9cm and starts at 1.71kg, while the HP Z2 Mini G5 has a slightly bigger footprint but is 1.2cm thinner. Both machines can be VESA mounted behind a display or under a desk. The Quadro RTX 3000 GPU features
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dedicated RT cores for ray tracing and Tensor cores for AI denoising, making it suitable for entry-level GPU rendering, as well as real-time viz and VR. It is not a standard desktop graphics card, rather a custom version of an MXM form factor GPU typically found in mobile workstations. In the HP Z2 Mini G5 and the Dell Precision 3240 Compact we expect it will offer slightly better performance than Quadro RTX 3000 GPUs found in slimline mobile workstations. The HP ZBook Studio G7, for example, uses a ‘Max Q Design’ variant, so is clocked a touch lower. Both workstations feature 10th Generation Intel Core CPUs with up to 10 cores and up to 64GB of memory. ■ zworkstations.com ■ dell.com/precision
NXT BLD- online & interactive next month
Atkins works with AI startup tkins has formed a partnership with AI technology start up nPlan to explore new contracting models driven by technology and data which could transform major project delivery across the industry. The work brings together Atkins’ project delivery experience and nPlan’s machine learning technology to identify and assess a new approach to contracting that focuses on collaboration, and changes the way risk is measured, shared and managed across major infrastructure programmes.
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■ atkinsglobal.com ■ nplan.io
EC Magazine will host its first ever virtual conference on 8-14 October, and it’s free to attend. NXT BLD Virtual will be spread out over a week with five bite sized 90 minute sessions, complete with a live Q&A. Topics include robots in construction, conceptual design, digital fabrication, viz, VR, and lots more. There’ll also be a unmissable panel discussion on Digital Design Futures from the group of AEC practices that sent that Autodesk letter. ■ more on page 24 and nxtbld.com
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Free tickets Online 8-14 October 6
September / October 2020
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www.AECmag.com
18/09/2020 14:34
