HI Lynn,

That second slot is NOT for a second processor (the 386 can't do
multi-CPU), at least not the type you are thinking. It is for an 80387
floating point math co-processor. Until the 80486 came out, the floating
point unit was not integrated in the main CPU, but had to be installed in a
second chip. Even some models of the 80486 (the SX if I recall) didn't have
the math co-proc. Not until the Pentium did the math co-processor finally
become a permanent piece of the main CPU core.

Even if you could get a multi-processor system (most pentium-III's will do
dual CPU), you would need an OS that can support it, and the first such OS
to do so was Windows NT.

As far as the math co-proc, it might help for applications written to use
the specific math instructions, but most DOS software emulated the floating
point math since there was no guarantee that the math co-proc was
available. You will find that all modern software expects to be running on
a pentium class machine and will require the math co-proc be available.


Russ Poffenberger
[log in to unmask]

You wrote:
-------------------------------
Lol- of course, I have to find one first.

The PC is old (obviously) but I'm having a very nice time playing with
it.  I got a brand new copy of DOS 6.22 & WFWG 3.11 ($1) at a recent
rummage sale.  It's freshly reloaded & I'd like to see what I can do with
it for learning's sake.

I would really like to get it online- just to see it happen.  I have a
sound card w/CD-ROM ports that I have yet to locate drivers for- but that
would allow me CD usage on my ancient Sony 2X.

Ok- here's the question: the thing only runs at 25mhz & has all memory
banks filled (8 x 1mb sticks).  Running 3.11 w/Calmira- it's amazingly
speedy- but I have a second, empty CPU slot.

Would there be any difference in performance- if I were lucky enough to
find one?  It is marked "Intel i386"- AB0386DX-33 IV- SX386- Intel '85.

Guess I need some PC "old-timers" help on this one?

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