I would very much like to upgrade to VV 8.0. However, I no longer have a Desktop. I have a laptop with these specs...Intel 1.66GHz Core 2 Duo CPU with 2MB L2 Cache / 2GB DDRRAM / 80GB Internal 5400RPM HD. If this system can handle the rendering with VV 8.0 and not microwave itself, I will get an external HD. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated...Especially with regard to the external HD. Many thanks to any replies, Geoff Camp.