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Computer specs for compilation times? (programming.dev)
submitted 1 year ago by to c/programming@programming.dev
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My computer is slow at compiling, esp. LLVM. If I were to buy a new computer, what components would I focus on to improve this?

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[–] 6 points 1 year ago (10 children)

Lots of RAM, 32+, and compile in tmpfs.

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  • [–] [S] 2 points 1 year ago (9 children)

    I'm thinking 2x32GB, tempted by more but seems excessive

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  • [–] 2 points 1 year ago (6 children)

    Very few things need 64GB memory to compile, but some do. If you think you'll be compiling web browsers or clang or something, then 64GB would be the right call.

    Also, higher speeds of DDR5 can be unstable at higher capacities. If you're going with 64GB or more of DDR5, I'd stick to speeds around 6000 (or less) and not focus too much on overclocking it. If you get a kit of 2x32GB (which you should rather than getting the sticks independently), then you'll be fine. You won't benefit as much from RAM speed anyway as opposed to capacity.

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  • [–] 2 points 1 year ago (2 children)

    Can you define unstable? I would like to know more about that

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  • [–] 2 points 1 year ago (1 child)

    It's less of an issue now, but there were stability issues in the early days of DDR5. Memory instability can lead to a number of issues including being unable to boot the PC (failing to post), the PC crashing suddenly during use, applications crashing or behaving strangely, etc. Usually it's a sign of memory going bad, but for DDR5 since it's still relatively young it can also be a sign that the memory is just too fast.

    Always check and verify that the RAM manufacturer has validated their RAM against your CPU.

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  • [–] [S] 1 point 1 year ago (2 children)

    how do you know this stuff?!

    hmmm, perhaps 2x32GB is overkill ...

    i'm getting a 6000/28CL

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  • [–] 1 point 1 year ago

    DDR5-6000/CL28 should be fine. Make sure to enable the XMP/EXPO profile in your BIOS after installing it.

    You can follow hardware reviewers like GamersNexus, LTT, HardwareUnboxed, etc if you want to stay up to date (which is what I do), or look at their content if you just want a review for a product you're looking at.

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