CES8@psuvm.psu.edu (05/24/91)
I have just received the spec sheets for the Intel SnapIn 386. This module is a 386 CPU upgrade for the PS/2 models 50 & 60. It uses a 386SX, with a 20 MHz clock and a 16 KB direct-mapped cache. The speed is selectable from 20 MHz to the original clock speed. The SnapIn module supports the 287 math coprocessor (if present) as the FPU, as well as the motherboard and add-in card memory. Intel's list price for the SnapIn 386 is $495 (I believe). The module does not support the Model 50Z at the moment. Compatibility with other systems (such as the Model 30-286) should be announced sometime at the end of the year. Intel's benchmark studies show a 1.7X to 2X performance boost for DOS and Windows 3.0 applications. Windows 3.0 can be run in enhanced mode with 2 MB of memory. Note that Intel has priced the SnapIn $100 lower than Kingston's module. Also, Intel's warranty is 3 years for this product. I wouldn't be surprized if prices dropped a bit more with this competition. CES8@psuvm.psu.edu standard disclaimer applies. I have no connection with Intel or Kingston ;-)