What type of pc is best for computation

[Guest]

Hello:
I use microsoft excel and develop large models (e. g. one is 3.6 megs) using
lots of excel functions (stdev, correl, min, rand, norminv, max, product,
sumproduct, etc). The models perform many multiplications and divisions. I
also use solver. I have found that some of my models take as long as 20-30
seconds just to recalculate. When I try to use solver on some of my models,
it times out before reaching a solution.

My present pc is a hp pavillion dv-1000 laptop with upgraded memory runniing
windows xp home edition and excel 2003. I am considering buying a new laptop
with a dual core processor.

I am open to any input regarding improving the performance of my existing
computer or what features to look for in a new computer.

Thanks in advance for your help.

Mike

 

[Dana DeLouis]

When I try to use solver on some of my models,

it times out before reaching a solution.

Just a thought. In Solver, under Options, you can increase MaxTime, and
Iterations.
I find that Solver usually won't work at all if your Solver Model uses
functions such as Max, Min, Correl, etc.

 

[Guest]

A dual core processor will only enhance improvement if you are using Excel
2007, because only XL 07 is designed to take advantage of multi-threaded
calculation. Given that, the best thing you can do to improve performance is
(1) install more RAM, and (2) review this white paper:
http://msdn2.microsoft.com/en-us/library/aa730921.aspx

Note that the white paper focuses on XL 2007, however, there are techniques
discussed in there that can also be used on previous versions of XL.

Dave

 

[Mike Middleton]

Mike -

One standard reference regarding calculation issues is Charles Williams' web
site

http://www.decisionmodels.com/optspeedb.htm

- Mike
http://www.mikemiddleton.com