WARRENTON, Va., July 2, 2003 - SPEC/GPC's Application Performance Characterization (SPECapc) project group has released updated performance evaluation software for systems running SolidWorks 2003 CAD/CAM software. Initial benchmark testing results and free downloads are available on this web site.

SPECapc for SolidWorks 2003 reflects new functionality found in the popular solid modeling package. Models have been made more complex, with added lights and soft shadows included in SolidWorks 2003. The benchmark also provides more accurate testing of the application's dynamic rotation mode.

SPECapc for SolidWorks 2003 was developed jointly by SolidWorks Corp. and SPECapc. It represents the working patterns of a typical SolidWorks user on real-world models. The benchmark contains graphics, CPU and I/O tests run on five models - a tire, an engine crankcase, two types of engines, and a car assembly with 60,000 triangles and 504,000 lines.

"Since developing SPECapc for SolidWorks 99, we've had a good working relationship with SolidWorks in creating performance evaluation software that reflects what users experience in the real world," says George Chaltas, SPECapc's chair. "The combination of application and benchmarking expertise helps ensure realistic, repeatable benchmarks for vendors and users."

SPECapc continues to seek additional benchmarks for leading software programs in three key application areas: CAD/CAM/CAE, visualization and digital content creation (DCC). SPECapc benchmarks and updated performance results are offered for free on the GPC News web site.

SPECapc is a project group of the Graphics Performance Characterization (GPC) Group, which in turn is part of the Standard Performance Evaluation Corp. (SPEC). SPEC is a non-profit corporation formed to establish, maintain and endorse a standardized set of relevant benchmarks that can be applied to the newest generation of high-performance computers. SPEC's membership includes computer hardware and software vendors, and leading universities and research facilities worldwide.

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