I haven't been keeping up with the list lately, so forgive me if this topic has been discussed recently. (I know it has been discussed periodically in the past, but I assume that standards have changed some since then.)
I work as a contractor at a government site, and we've been asked to submit a wish list for upgrading our computers. Does anyone have any advice on the current minimum standards in DTP for RAM, disk space, graphics card, video card, processor, etc.? I have Windows XP and, in addition to FrameMaker and various plugins, the major programs I use are Windows Office 2003 (XP?), SnagIt, WordPerfect Office 11 (for legacy documents), and Acrobat 7. We currently have Photoshop and some other graphics programs on a common machine, but I could be adding some of these to my machine in the future. I'm working at home today, and so I don't recall all my the specs on my computer at work, but I know I'm pathetically low on RAM (384MB--have been begging for more for 2+ years). Fortunately, I've gotten by with that because most of our documents have been small. However, I'm currently converting a huge document (1200+ pages) from WordPerfect to FrameMaker and adding color photos and graphics, and I know I'm going to need more computer power. Any advice would be appreciated. In addition to replying to the list, I'd appreciate a cc to my individual account to expedite receipt of any messages. Thanks! Rita (Cross-posted to FreeFramers and FrameUsers)