RadiSys P3000BX2 Series, Service Manual

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Technical Data
Service Manual EPC-2322 SBC (P3000(D)BX2 Series) 49
Dual
Processors When operating dual processors, the “stepping” of each processor must be considered.
Stepping The “stepping” of a processor is similar to a manufacturing “version number” or
“revision level.” The first version of a new processor is the A0 step. As revisions are
made for functional fixes or manufacturing improvements, the stepping is increased.
Intel recommends using identical steppings of processors in dual systems. This is the
only configuration that receives full validation through all of Intel’s testing. However,
Intel does not actively prevent mixed steppings of processors used in dual systems.
Two methods can be used to determine the stepping of a Pentium III processor:
• CPUID Utility
• S-spec Number
CPUID Utility The CPUID utility is a program that can identify a genuine Intel processor, as well as
determine the processor family, model, and stepping. The CPUID utility and
installation instructions can be downloaded from Intel’s website. See below.
S-spec
Number The S-spec number is located on the top edge of the processor. It identifies any specific
characteristics of that individual processor, including the stepping. The S-spec number
can be referenced in the Pentium III Processor Specification Update, which can be
downloaded from Intel’s website. See below.
More... For more information, contact Intel at http://www.intel.com.
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