Computer

My system - Here’s what I run. Feel free to use my specs as a guide. AMD 1900+ XP Pocessor, 512 Megs DDR-SDRAM, 64 Meg Video Card, 21 Inch Monitor, 40 gigabyte 7200 spin Hard drive, 80 gigabyte USB external hard drive, Ethernet Card (for broadband connection) DVD, CD burner, Internal Zip 250 drive, sound card, speakers, mouse, keyboard.

Scanner - I use a Microtek scanner. All scanners are pretty much the same. Get one that fits your budget, but make sure it has a good software package which will allow you to manually set scanning modes. Microtek’s scanning software is wonderful and gives the user much more control than scanners using “wizard” software system. And don’t be fooled by numbers...you’ll probably never scan any image over 600 dpi. For more information on scanners and scanning, I recommend visiting www.scantips.com.

Digital Tablet - I use an Aiptek HyperPen 6000 Tablet. You can get more information on it at the Digital Tablet page.

Let’s talk computers. A computer in your studio and an Internet connection means you can create and publish just about anything in the cartoon universe. You’re only limited by your imagination and the power of your computer. So allow me to give you a few basics when configuring a computer system.

Processor and Memory - I mention these together because they do go hand in hand when you’re considering the power of your system. As a general rule, when limited by money, it’s always better to get more memory instead of the faster processor. If you’re on a budget, step down one or two levels in processor speed and step up in the amount of memory. For instance, it’s sometimes cheaper to get a 2.0 GHz processor with 512 Megs or RAM, rather than buying a 2.4 GHz system with only 256 megs of RAM. At either of those speeds, you’ll get the job done, but the 2 GHz processor will run smoother given the advantage of more memory.

Hard Drive - When possible, get a hard drive that spins at 7200 RPM. Most off-the-shelf systems come with a standard 5400 RPM Hard drive. It’s okay, but access time for large files is improved with the faster spin.

Video card - I recommend a minimum of 64 megs on the video card. More video memory means faster graphics, more colors and higher monitor resolutions. And the good news is, 64 (128, 256, etc.) meg cards become less expensive as faster, more advanced cards are introduced into the market.

Monitor - Larger is better. If you’re really serious about creating artwork on a computer, get nothing less than a 19 inch monitor. A 17 inch Monitor is fine, but again, larger is better and coupled with a 64 meg or larger card, you’ll be able to run a higher screen resolution on the monitor giving you more colors and smoother graphics.