gribskov@FCRFV1.NCIFCRF.GOV ("Gribskov, Michael") (11/13/90)
In regard to the question of whether to get an Iris 4D20TG or Evans & Sutherland ESV3, I will just add my two bits worth: We have a 4D20 TG which I like very much. However, when running standard molecular display software, such as Alwyn Jones TOM, it is not possible to do real time rotation of large molecules with electron density maps. I can't really say if this is due to the port to the iris, or due to the size molecule we typically work with (ca. 5000-10000 atoms). The 4D20 is a nice development platform for graphics and non-graphics programs for machines in the 4D series. You can also get a 4D25 with a cpu upgrade that makes it equivalent to a 4D35 which should be quite a nice machine (we have one on order). All of this, unfortunately has to be taken without reference to the E&S since we do not have a ESV3 to compare. I think the take home lesson is that, if at all possible, try to get a demo of the software you are most interested in using on the exact model machine you are considering buying. Michael Gribskov gribskov@ncifcrf.gov