What is Benchmarking??

[TmGolfx360]

I think it is software that records and brings your system to its limits and sees how it reacts. Then it spits out a number and that is your benchmark score? I am not sure what it is and if the software is free, please help just curious about my new computer.

[saphalline]

Ah yes. Benchmarking. The activity that separates cheap machines from stable power-houses! :D It can be quite fun to see how your system "rates" compared to others, and it's also useful for testing stability since benchmark programs stress your system for 10 minutes or more. We're talking 101% here!

For most computer users, FutureMark (http://www.futuremark.com/) is the company of choice. They made a name for themselves in the late '90's for making high quality and stable programs that could be used to test any system on a level playing field. In terms of game-based PC benchmarking, their 3DMark series is unmatched! I use the free versions of 3DMark 03, 05, and 06 regularly as a quick stability test for any new system. The pay-for versions are quite useful for doing full looping tests and the programs themselves are excellent at stressing everything at 100%! Every CPU clock cycle, every bit of RAM, every transistor in every GPU/VPU! Everything!

The downloads are big, but it's worth it. And if you like their products, I'd recommend investing in them. Buying the download versions of the older 3DMark 03 or 05 is relatively cheap, and you get a lot for your money! All the tests, configurable settings, looping capabilities, etc. I should buy the full version of 06 one of these days...

[TmGolfx360]

Thanks saphalline, you always respond it seems like. And I downloaded the trial one on ym dell, just my comp for surfing the web. LOL it scored a 127.

[saphalline]

Yeah, the new 3DMark 06 is quite intensive. It doesn't take kindly to things like onboard video. With a score that low, your system has to have onboard video. Right? :p