MVE486 System Board
Introduction
of DRAM Memory:
While most system
boards only support
32
or
the MVE486
quad-
ruples
that memory capacity up to
This is a
must for network file servers and multi-user, time-shar-
ing systems. The MVE486 supports the new 72 pin
standard single as well as double sided modules of
1
of Adaptive Write-Back Cache Memory:
Cache memory is an essential part of maintaining high
system performance. In most cases, the larger the
cache memory, the greater the system performance.
Repetitive programs such as spread-sheet and CAD
applications will benefit the most. The standard con-
figuration includes
of cache memory. For 64K
cache memory you need 8 pieces of
20NS
chips. To upgrade to
you may need 8 pieces of
20NS SRAM chips with one additional
Tag RAM.
Unlike other cache architectures that require the CPU
to write directly to DRAM, (usually 3 wait states or
more) the write-back cache is the most efficient way
for cache to write information back to main memory.
This is because the cache can be written to within a
Zero Waitstate cycle. Then the cache circuit writes the
information to the DRAM by itself.
Embedded
The MVE486 includes the latest gen-
eration of Super I/O controllers which provides 2 serial
ports, a parallel port, IDE disk interface and floppy disk
controller. The floppy disk controller is capable of
supporting the new
floppy disk drives. Just as
important, the floppy controller is capable of data rates
of 1
is a significant benefit in performance
on various floppy tape drives compatible with the
transfer rates. In addition, the serial port
UARTS are compatible with the National” 16450 with
FIFO.
OPTIONAL
ROM BIOS:
At one time or an-
other, the need can arise to update the system BIOS.
Usually this means that the system must be partially
disassembled, the old ROM chip removed, discarded,
the new ROM chip installed and the system reassem-
bled. With FLASH technology, BIOS updates are
l - 4
Version DO1
Copyright 0
1993
