I wouldn't say 32-64GB is too much for some of those tasks, CAD and the like could easily spike 128GB with modern systems. The RAM is just an option because the Intel processor is designed for servers/workstations and simply allows you to. It's also useful if you have a rig of GPU's, which this iMac is capable of powering a number of eGPU systems so for very remote circumstances I can see it being useful.
In comparison, a Dell workstation can run you a lot higher, the CPU and RAM being the primary cost drive
If your professional workload needs a lot of RAM, Apple will sell you a system for it. They're not going to question why or say "Gee, that's a lot." They'll just put in the higher-end components and send it with a bill. What it's used for is up to the customer.
You want to edit 4K video with a huge RAM-backed cache? This will do it.
You want to run 50 VMs to test your shiny new software? This will do it.
You want to take advantage of your newly-minted CTO's "upgrade everything!" dri
32GB useful for dev (Score:4, Insightful)
I wouldn't say 32-64GB is too much for some of those tasks, CAD and the like could easily spike 128GB with modern systems. The RAM is just an option because the Intel processor is designed for servers/workstations and simply allows you to. It's also useful if you have a rig of GPU's, which this iMac is capable of powering a number of eGPU systems so for very remote circumstances I can see it being useful.
In comparison, a Dell workstation can run you a lot higher, the CPU and RAM being the primary cost drive
Re: (Score:3)
This is precisely the point.
If your professional workload needs a lot of RAM, Apple will sell you a system for it. They're not going to question why or say "Gee, that's a lot." They'll just put in the higher-end components and send it with a bill. What it's used for is up to the customer.
You want to edit 4K video with a huge RAM-backed cache? This will do it.
You want to run 50 VMs to test your shiny new software? This will do it.
You want to take advantage of your newly-minted CTO's "upgrade everything!" dri
Re:32GB useful for dev (Score:2)
and you don't see any more upgrade funding until the Lions win the Super Bowl
Wait, all my Lions fan buddies are CONVINCED that is going to happen any year now. Any. Year. Now.
Go Pack!