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Hey all,
Have just bought the Better Homes and Gardens latest issue with its try it and see software for home improvement, only problem is that it requires a graphics card of at least 32mb whereas my computer only has 16mb. Rather than go out and buy another graphics card which will cost around $90 to run this software, has anyone got any free software that can be downloaded.
On the subject of software, has anyone found any free software on cutting lists for woodwork on the net?
What is it this renovation software is supposed to do?
Tools
When helped, thanks would be a good way to ensure further assistance, try your search engine!
It is designed to allow you to scan in your home or garden and try out different color schemes as well as other renovation ideas to see what they look like before you actually do them.
Who are you directing this too?Quote:
Originally Posted by Auspiciousdna
G'day Tiger,
I once downloaded some similar software from www.tucows.com
haven't looked for a while myself but should be worth a go.
Cheers,
Mat
In the unlikely event that it's still possible to buy new video cards with only 32MB of ram, the cost wouldn't even come close to $90.00. For that money you can buy a new card with 128MB ram on it.Quote:
Originally Posted by Tiger
Check out the prices at http://www.cpl.net.au and the Green Guide or once you know the exact model card you want, you can use this website to help you locate a very good price. http://www.staticice.com.au/index.html
If you only want a card that is the bare minimum for that software, a swap meet is your best bet and I would advise you to not spend more than $10.00 and even that is top money for such a card.
HTH,
Mark.
Hi Mark,
The card needed was a GeForce 2MX Video card with 32MB if RAM. I rang Dick Smith and quoted those specs and was told $90. Guess I should upgrade my computer but there's so many tools I need first.....
$90.00? :( Ouch! :eek:Quote:
Originally Posted by Tiger
Dick Smith isn't the cheapest place around but I love their satisfaction guarantees and warranty replacement services.
CPL or MSY are probably the two cheapest places around Melbourne, but don't try to ring MSY. There, English is a third language at best. Use email.
If you prefer a swap meet then this is the next big one.
Malvern Town Hall, held on the 1st Sunday of most months.
The next Malvern Swap Meet will be held on: 2nd October 2005 Entry $3.00 inc. GST
Hi Tiger,
Did you try to install and run it on your 16mb machine anyway?
Hi Anthony,
I did try and install it and a message came back saying something along the lines of failing the diagnostics.
Being of a curious nature, I had to try this myself. ;)Quote:
Originally Posted by Tiger
I bought the mag and installed the software and the diagnostics tell me that my current card/driver combo fails on one of the Direct X tests. :(
Downloading and installing the latest Direct X software from MS hasn't helped and my card at 6 years of age hasn't been supported by its manufacturer for a few years and so the latest drivers for it, are just over 3 years old.
Looks like I can't run the program either. :(
Given the fact the Autocad 2000, that's the full Autocad NOT Autocad LT or Autosketch runs just fine on this, admittedly ancient PC, this 'freebie' program from the mag. cover would want to be something special to warrant both the hardware and software(driver) requirements, IMO. :mad:
One thing to consider, Tiger and that is, if you do go shopping for a card with only 32MB of ram on it, then owing to its technological age, you may have trouble finding suitable drivers for it. :eek:
Let's know how you get on... :)
I've down some more research on this topic and come up with the following.
There is a free support forum located here.
http://www.myvirtualhome.com.au/appl...hp#SupportForm
and there is a thread about the program over on Whirlpool. No tech. information but the tech heads there might be able to help if the support forum can't.
http://forums.whirlpool.net.au/forum...s.cfm?t=401706
A bloke claiming to be the Communications Director for the company, and I've no reason to believe that he isn't what he claims, has also posted in that thread.
Tiger, you might like to take a look at both the support forum and Whirlpool before parting with any of your hard earned cash. :D
HTH,
Mark.
You could try downloads.com or tucows.com and search for home improvements.
What was the point of that comment!?!?Quote:
Originally Posted by Auspiciousdna
Autocad 2000 is only really a basic 2d cad package with very limited 3d functionality. I am not saying that it is not good at what it does, but more so it doesn't need much. I would assume that the BHG program requires a higher end video card due to the complexity of 3d images and rendering.Quote:
Originally Posted by duckman
I managed to catch a little of BHG last night with the need to collect the three mystery letters throughout the show to enter the prize draw. Someone with a little too much creativity in the marketing department came up with the three letters G H & B. They even presented them in order B, H & G. Even the bunnies superstore staff could work that one out.
fairly peeeeces me off when a firm expects to be able to give a piece of software to "everyman" for you to simply find out that it won't work....... must be a bloody brilliant piece of software that won't run on a machine capable of driving the RAM EATER ACAD2000.
One more coaster that is free for a damn good reason I say. Sorry I can't help you with an alternative OR a reason why someone seemed to be telling you to be sure to say thanks - unless you posted elsewhere and forgot to say it.
THANKS!
:D:D:D:D:D:D:D
Autocad, any release a "basic" program? :eek:Quote:
Originally Posted by Sir Stinkalot
You sure you're not thinking of something else?
I'd hardy call a video card with 32MB of ram, which is the minimum that "MyVirtualHome" requires, a "higher end card", not in this day and age. Its a problem with DirectX that's my problem but not the OP's.:)
Try this Dulux online color selector HERE
You must use Internet Explorer it dont like Firefox or Opera
my video card is currently running 500meg of ram
:)
I got this of ebay for less than 9 buck delivered. If that's what you're after
Ultimate CARPENTRY+ BONUS TIMBER DECKS - CD-ROM 800pp
GREAT Value CD ROM covering...
Construction Drawings
Planning & Materials
Building Layout & Foundation
Concrete Forms
Framing & Coverings
Bridge & Wharf ConstructionFinish Carpentry<!-- End Description -->
90$ isnt much for a video card.Us gamers pay anywhere up to 1g$ Mine is $300 but only cause it was a hongkong import.
This afternoon, I received the following email from MVH tech support.
I was merely curious about the program and so shan't pursue it any further until I decided to buy a new PC at which time I'll probably ensure that the video card will suit MVH.
Email below:
*********************************************************
Hi Mark,
Unfortunately your system is below the minimum system requirements for running MyVirtualHome. In this case, your TNT2 Video Card does not support Texture Compression DXT. This is an essential requirement. As such, if you wish to continue using MyVirtualHome, you might consider upgrading your video card to a GeForce 2MX or greater.
The best advice I can give you is to visit the official MyVirtualHome website's System Requirements section (http://www.myvirtualhome.com.au/appl...quirements.htm ). The system components listed are the minimum MyVirtualHome will run on. If you need to contact a vendor near your area go to the link below:
http://www.myvirtualhome.com.au/appl...stores.php#QLD
If you have any further issues or questions, please contact MyVirtualHome Support using the Support Site at www.myvirtualhome.com.au/support
Cheers,
Helpdesk Team.
The MyVirtualHome Team
www.myvirtualhome.com.au
Support Form
www.myvirtualhome.com.au/support
Thanks, guys. Points well made, it was free after all, although it was quoted as being worth $49. I will give it one more try on another computer and let you know how it turns out.
Might have to make a tough decision though, upgrade the computer or buy more tools, hmmm.......
Hi all,
I'm John Banks, the communications director with MyVirtualHome.
As a cutting-edge 3D visualistation package, MyVirtualHome software does require a moderate level video card to run. The software is actually based in a 3D games engine technology developed by Brisbane based games company, Auran. We went down this direction as we want MyVirtualHome to provide a high quality and user-friendly home design package with stunning visuals that will represent homemakers design ideas and visions. It also aims to provide a new vehicle for communication between homemakers and suppliers, trades, consultants, builders etc by visualising project plans etc. This does require an adequate 3D videocard to support the quality visual effects. However, the video cards that will support MyVirtualHome are relatively inexpensive, they're certainly not at the top end. If you have any questions at all about MyVirtualHome please let me know ([email protected]).
For further support with running MyVirtualHome please visit our support page (http://www.myvirtualhome.com.au/application/support.php). Additional information about MyVirtualHome can be found on our website at www.myvirtualhome.com.au
Cheers,
John
Thanks, John for your reply. It's amazing the people who use this forum. Do you have an inexpensive card that will run this cd that you can recommend?
G'day John,Quote:
Originally Posted by John_Banks
Good to you made it over here from WP. :D
WHat mag was this in again? I might go pick it up to try out and hey John - welcome mate.... you will find a lot of compatriots here
and the odd antagonist no doubt :D
pretty sure my SGI workstation will run your proggie
have fun
Quote:
Originally Posted by seriph1
The current issue of Better Homes & Gardens.
Peter.
If you want it off the magazine cover, "Better Homes and Gardens" you'd better hurry or, alternatively, wait and see if MVH comes good and makes it available as a free download from their website. :)Quote:
Originally Posted by seriph1
Try ebay for the card, should come in a long way under $90
Tom
Only vaguely relevant I know, but I saw Dell had a computer for sale (no keyboard or monitor) for about $500. I can't see it on their website, but it was in a brochure that came with one of the newspapers.
It isn't all that flash (what do you expect for $500), but it might be of interest.
Trav
or with a 17(?) inch flat screen LCD monitor for 799. I didnt go for it but bought the 24inch widescreen flat panel display. . . . . . Dell has a very carefully thought through marketing strategy, which I discovered included: advertised sale price is actually higher than the price when you go online to check it - this accelerates buyer urgency. I got my new screen (for design work) for $1384 against the junk mail price of $1499 - no hidden extras.
I bought a Dell puter the other week. A great deal.
I rang to ask a question about the chipsets, and the operator offered to do me a better deal than on the internet. She ended up knocking another $150 off a $2000 computer - another 10% off is always welcome in my book!
Trav
sorry - forgot to add - I believe they stick to their deal dates, which in the junk mail ended on 30 september
..... or even 7.5 %
:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D
Quote:
Originally Posted by Tiger
http://www.woodbin.com/
http://www.azwoodman.com/resources/woodworking.html
http://www.woodweb.com/Resources/RSS...onnection.html
These have all been mentioned previously, but relate directly to Tiger's question.
cheers
RufflyRustic
Thanks, RufflyRustic, had a quick look but didn't see much that was free, will keep looking as some of these sites will keep me busy for hours;) .
i got the free version of my virtual home last night and loaded it onto my computer ,it ran all right but even i found it too cunfusing to use ,from what i saw you cant load yuor own floor plan ,there are virtually no suppliers or manufacturers to help you,this may be a cutting edge product but you would have thought that they would have at the very least arranged for suppliers to be listed from the start instead of no doubt signing up businesses after the release
I will let the cynic in my answer that part......Quote:
Originally Posted by arms
They can now approach businesses and state that they have X amount of people already using the software. Reverse engineering in a roundabout sort of way.
Cheers,
Mat