Off Topic, Computer Hardware and the Supporting OS

Troll Snott has asked me to start a thread for non-game, yet game-related stuff. He said there was a nice shouting discussion about dual-core vs quad-core and the OS (Operating System) that supports the hardware. SLI vs Crossfire was mentioned.

Snott didn't relay many details, other than it should be continued or re-started here. I don't see any reason why other things, like bus mastering and NIC data-rates should not be included. Let's not forget about RAM and the Drives. I would love to argue PATA vs SCSI.

Choosing the correct Operating System is crucial. The choice of OS can make or break a well thought-out hardware platform.

So, the floor is open to anything that is related to Computer Hardware and the Supporting OS's.

(please note: this is not PC vs MAC) Although this might be pointed towards PC's, MAC's are included. Why include MAC? Because NWN will run on a MAC.