computer. While there is no defined limit for the number of polygons you can add to a Google SketchUp project, having a high number of polygons may cause a number of issues, including computer crashes and slow rendering.
Windows System Requirements
- A big factor in overall performance is your system setup. So as a first step, make sure that your system is optimized to handle the load. For Windows 7, SketchUp recommends a 2 GHz processor and 2 or more GB of RAM. You should also have at least 500MB of hard disk space and a 3D video card with at least 512MB of memory. The video card driver should support OpenGL version 1.5 or higher; if you have an Intel graphics card, you may run into issues using SketchUp. In fact, the graphics card is often the main culprit in performance issues for most 3D programs.
Mac System Requirements
- On a Mac, you may have a number of factors that are causing your SketchUp projects to go awry. First, be sure you are not using SketchUp from BootCamp or Parallels, and that you have QuickTime 5.0 or higher. You'll also need to have a 2.1 GHz Intel processor and 2GB of RAM, as well as 500MB of hard disk space. As with Windows computers, your video card is important here; be sure you have a 3D-class video card with at least 512MB of memory, and that it supports OpenGL version 1.5 or higher.
Modes
- If you're experiencing a lot of lag when you're working on a project with many polygons, there are a few things you can do to try to reduce the load on your computer. According to Google, the number one reason for a failed model is using a model that is too complex. As such, use rendering modes that have fewer details while you're working on a project, and then add the details to a final draft. Try removing shaded modes, shadows and other styling "extras" that look good for the final project, but may cause added strain on your computer's central processing unit, or CPU. Even if you have a dual-core or quad-core machine, SketchUp uses just a single processor, and it's going to feel the strain of all those extra demands.
Hidden Items
- Another tactic is to try to reduce the number of polygons in your project. With a 3D model, inevitably there are going to be parts that become hidden. For example, in an architectural model, the interior courtyard -- with its extensive detail -- often gets covered up by an exterior roof. Try erasing surfaces and lines that are not visible from the outside of the model. Likewise, try combining a series of small polygons in to a larger polygon; this can save memory and reduce lag.
