Intel Corp’s new 50MHz 80486 microprocessor (CI No 1,701), claimed to be 50 times faster than the 33MHz version and aimed at client-server computing, will be available to procurers in an optional module format. The 80486 CPU-cache module integrates the processor with new 82495 and 82490 second-level cache memory components, in a pre-tested 50MHz board part. The modular cache subsystem features the 82495 second-level cache controller and nine 32Kb 82490 dual-ported intelligent cache statics. Dual-ported buffers and registers of the 82490 enable the 82495 cache controller concurrently to handle the processor bus, memory bus and internal cache operations. Like the new 80860XP 64-bit supercomputing processor announced two weeks ago (CI No 1,693), the new 1.2m-transistor 80486 chip is manufactured on Intel’s new 0.8-micron, three-layer-metal CHMOS-V process, making it half the size of the 25MHz and 33MHz 80486 processors. Intel claims that the 50MHz chip rates 41 Dhystone MIPS, taking third place behind Hewlett-Packard Co’s top-end 50MHz Apollo Model 720 which rates 60 MIPS, and IBM’s 41.6MHz RS/6000 Model 550 which rates 56 MIPS. The 50MHz 80486 microprocessor, cache system – which may be purchased separately, and module are in limited production now, with volume set for the fourth quarter. The processor costs UKP437 in 1,000-unit quantities; the module with 256Kb cache, UKP863. The 82495 second-level cache controller is UKP130, and the 82490 cache SRAM UKP27. As with all Intel microprocessors, the 50MHz 80486 will be subject to quarterly price cuts.
