How to benchmark.

[gadders]

Im currently benchmarking my new gfx card and have noticed that if running virus software and firewalls etc i lose points of my benchmark score. Im currently losing 5K off aquamark and 400 points off 3dmark03.

What environment should benchmarks be run? Is it ok to be on the net whilst benchmarking?

 

[sparky853]

I just benchmarked my R9600XT last night, and (using WIN2K,) I closed all running apps and all items in taskbar. I also closed explorer, and I got an additional 500 point in 3dmark2001se.

So, it depends on how high you want your score.

Spec:
Intel P4 2.4B
MSI 645E Max-U Mobo
512MB DDR333
ATI Radeon 9600XT 128MB
SB Live 5.1
WD 60GB
Maxtor 120GB
LG 12x8x32 CDR
WIN2K PRO SP4

 

[Vapor]

Best environment: fresh OS install...all the big name places do it. As for being on the net, try unplugging and seeing if you get different results.

Maxtor disgraces the six letters that make Matrox.